Just unwrapped a new hand-held VHF, the HX470S by Standard Horizon. If you love their HX460 (and I do) you will absolutely adore their latest creation.

This cigarette-pack-sized puppy sports the familiar VHF and weather channels. And then some: FRS (family radio service), MURS (Multiple Use Radio Service), plus receive-only implementations of AM, FM and Air. It even has a GPS hookup plus a DSC button for automatic distress call for whenever the CG has purchased their end of the equipment. It's the first handheld unit I know of that has that feature. In the past, the powers-that-be balked at approving portable DSC devices as opposed to ship-based ones (the MMSI number is ship-centric.)

When you buy it, keep a watchful eye on it. This jewel with the price of a fancy watch ( approx. $350 street) will find new lovers real quick.

One and only drawback: Standard Horizon's website at http://www.standardhorizon.com is behind the times as usual and doesn't list the HX470S.