Yo... You big 4 leaf clover you; wit dem flattened knuckles!
LOL. To funny Art me Irish Bro.
Furuno makes some good stuff that is for sure. Not that other do not, but I look at Furuno first.
In thinking about your choices of handhelds VHF. There are a number of choices out there. If you feel like getting Froggy or is you had to much of the Irish Wild Rose, have a look at the
Icom GM1500 VHF GMDSS Radio/Telephone. That is what I have now.
A bit pricy, I paid about $440.00 for it, however it does the job every well for me. I know you can get something cheaper but to me, I like the back up of be able to make a phone call as well. I know you, I know. We all have cell phones now, however I hate to carry one now days.
Anyways I thought I would pass that along to you Art. Good luck on your project, and from the photos of that tree. I'm glad your wonderful Lady was not harmed!
Thanks for your best wishes on the hunt for our Fleming which I hope will be continuing soon. The wife is getting strong every day.
Keep us post Art on what you end up getting on the VHF.
Happy cruising to you and yours me Irish Bro.
Cheers
H. Foster