The main portable radio is the Kenwood F6A. I have just about every local frequency programmed, all my EMS frequencies and repeaters where I usually vacation.  Small but not too small, it works very well. Scanning is slower than a handheld scanner made for the purpose, but that is expected. Dual receive means I can listen to 2m and my dispatch frequency at the same time. I even use the HF receive capability from time to time (but you really need a wire antenna to go with it) I am always finding a new feature to play with. Right now I am using it for my initial foray into EchoLink (since I dont have a DTMF mic on the TS-B2000 (should have bought that!)

Emergency Medical Services Radios

The ICOM F11 is a excellent value. Inexpensive, I think the receiver is better than the Mortorola radios. It is lightweight and easily fits into a pocket. 2 tone paging is built in: a nice basic 16 channel radio. This is my backup radio (ends up my son uses it to listen to calls)

The Vertex VX900 has 512 channels and lots of options. It solves the limitation of the F11. I should have ordered it with the DTMF pad (I didnt!) Covering 136-174 Mhtz I also have 2m repeaters programmed in. I have dropped this radio a few times and it keeps on trucking. (I really dont want to use the F6A on emergency calls.) The had to replace one of the knobs, but it was easy to find online.

The Yeasu FT857 replaced an FT817 that I sold. I just did not have the patience to go QRP and wanted more power. This radio covers HF, 6M, 2M, and 440M with an easy to use design. (I use it with Ham Radio Deluxe) Small enough to carry anywhere with me, I even use it to monitor public safety frequencies. I have a small power supply for it and a battery I can connect it to. This is a downright fun radio.

The LDG Electronics Z-100 is a nice little tuner to take with me on the road.  Would be nice if had a battery internally to it since wiring it together with the radio can be a mess. I typically have a ground rod I pound into the ground when operating. (The new SGC tuner looks great.... battery operation!)

Vendors

• Battery Zone
• Smart Communications
• OMNI Communications
• Discount 2 way Communications

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