Icom IC-M72 Handheld Marine VHF Radio

The IC-M72 radio offers a bit more of everything than most marine handhelds, with more transmit power (6 watts) for carrying a conversation an extra-long way, more audio output (600 mW) for drowning out noisy engines and howling winds, more hours of use per charge (15 to 16 hours, as compared to the typical 8 to 10 hours), and more water resistance (the radio is certified to withstand an extra half meter of submersion). The one thing it offers less of, however, is antenna, with a 30-percent shorter antenna that still performs every bit as efficiently as other Icom models. Add in a compact, hourglass-body shape with cozy side grips and a high-intensity, backlit display and you have a comfortable, fun-to-use radio that excels at both daytime and nighttime operation.

The IC-M72 offers several scanning modes, including an auto scan function that starts scanning whenever no signal is detected, a traditional scan mode that searches through all the tag channels in sequence, a priority scan mode that does the same but also monitors the distress channel (number 16), and a weather alert option that immediately switches the radio to the appropriate weather channel when a storm warning comes through. Users will also dig the Dual Watch and Tri-Watch functions. The former lets you communicate on a channel of your choice while also keeping an eye on channel 16, while the latter monitors two channels--channel 16 and another channel--while receiving a third channel. The pair of "watch" modes guarantee that you won't miss an important emergency call from a distressed boater while your attention is otherwise engaged.

Other details include instant access to channels 16 and 9, an auto power save function, a four-step battery life indicator, and an AquaQuake draining function that clears water away from the speaker grill by emitting a vibrating sound. Bundled with such accessories as a belt clip, a hand strap, a lithium-ion battery pack, and a drop-in charger, the IC-M72 measures 2.06 by 4.91 by 1.19 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a three-year warranty.

What's in the Box
IC-M72 radio, lithium-ion battery pack, drop-in charger, AC adapter, belt clip, antenna, hand strap, user's manual.