2M only or Dual Band ???

[Billk]

Hey guys,
First of all, hope everyone had a nice Xmas !!

My old trusty Icom 2M HT finally gave it up after 20 years so I am looking for a replacement. A dual band (2M & 440) is not that much more, but I am just not sure if there is a real need for it ? I am just going to get a basic HT, don't need any bells and whistles. It will definitely be another Icom.

So, what would you buy ? Those of you that have dual band HT's, do you really use the 440 very much if at all ?

Any thoughts appreciated

 

[W5LZ]

Bill,
I think an easy way to decide would be another question, are there any '440' repeaters in your area? If not, then I wouldn't think there would be much 'need' for a dual-band HT. Unless you just wanna...
- 'Doc

 

[Moleculo]

Maybe time to get some of your buddies to play on UHF? It's pretty easy to get up and running, especially because the antennas are so small.

 

[Grogan]

In my area there is a lot of linked systems. Also seems to be more traffic on 440 than 2 meters. Icom radios are nice but have a nice price to go along with them. Ever think about trying out a Woxun dual band. Just a thought! as I Zip up my Flame suit!

 

[Billk]

In my area there is a lot of linked systems. Also seems to be more traffic on 440 than 2 meters. Icom radios are nice but have a nice price to go along with them. Ever think about trying out a Woxun dual band. Just a thought! as I Zip up my Flame suit!

No flame suit needed I subscribe to the "you get what you pay for" club and it has generally served me well. I was talking to someone a few days before Xmas and could hardly understand him on his new "Made in China" HT He sounded pretty frustrated with it also I will stick to something I know is pretty decent even if it costs a little more.

 

[74IN]

I have had better luck with dual banders for one reason. If you sell one you get more money back % wise.

 

[desync0]

I've had great luck with my Baofeng UV-5R, survived several drops on my tile floor and still ticking.

Regularly get 60km range driving towards repeaters on both VHF/UHF on flat ground, 20-30km driving away in the "hills", and always with great audio reports.

It doesn't have a big brand name, but it's also doesn't come with their price, can't go wrong for $50.

 

[kd0fx]

Plenty of public service on UFH around here, so it's worth it to me just for the "scanner" abilities. No amateur traffic though.

 

[KD8RKJ]

I'd definately suggest a dual band HT. You never know if you might want to use 70 cm someday and the cost difference is not that great these days. I have a Yeasu FT-60r that I love. I think they sell for around $150.00 and it's loaded with some great features. It's also very durable, which is important to me because I can be rough on my radios.