If built in where is the best place to mount an antenna on a 35EX. Or should I just get a handheld, really don't want to drill holes in my boat. Thanks

Both. That way you have a backup.

Would there be a range advantage of the built in vs hand held? DC plug in for back up on the hand held if batteries die?

It all depends on where you spend your time as range is dictated by the height of the antenna. I went through the same decision when I got my 292 and went with a hand held. Works fine for me on inland lakes in the Midwest.

Dave

I'm a fan of built in with a handheld back up

+1. Really depends on where you will be boating. Handheld will give you range of a few miles. Built-in will give you a lot more depending on antenna height. I go out into the ocean a lot, so I went with both. My antenna is mounted on the gunwale just below the Fountain logo.. I have a 4' antenna..

This is an interesting thread. I imagine there are a significant number of offshore powerboat owners running around with inadequate VHF coverage based on appearance. You need to read the specifications on the radio and antenna to understand what your range is. Sadly I'm guessing a bunch of people are dependent on cell phone vs VHF.
ed

Thats what I am reading, the antenna (hieght) is key to range, I always used my radio with the antenna down in the Formula so I may be ok with the handheld.

Were did you put the radio?

In doing research none of them go as far as I thought.