bertram31.com

Its time to replace my aging Icom 502. I've been happy with it and would like to come as close to "like to like" as possible. We listen to it but hardly ever use it and carry it primarily for safety. We don't need AIS and never use DSC. It would need to plug it into my existing NEMA 2000 network and be able to transmit my GPS position in an emergency. I've read through the features for various models on the Icom website but I'm not current enough to really understand what I'm reading. Any suggestions?

Doug, I have exactly the same concerns.
So, I left the existing VHF alone and bought a handheld waterproof one. I figured,if I ever fall overboard and still have it with me I will be able to communicate while swimming...

If you're off shore and find yourself in the water, it's also not a terrible idea to carry a handheld that can tune to frequencies used by aircraft. If you're anywhere near an airport and you keep the local approach and departure frequencies stored in the radio, you'll have a pretty good chance of being heard by someone.

Even if you're 50 or 60 miles from the airport, incoming jet traffic is going to be under 10,000 feet and outbound traffic won't be much higher. Obviously it's line of sight..... The aviation handhelds have at least a 5 mile range.

https://www.mypilotstore.com/MyPilotSto ... cgQAvD_BwE

Mike

Great tip. Is any type of special license needed ?

No special operators license needed (in the US). Just don't use those frequencies unless you're an airplane or having an emergency.

Thanks

Would be cool to just listen in. Heck down in South Jersey we have all kinds of aircraft going in and out of McGuire.