In a message dated 2/23/03 8:00:44 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: << M-Sailers,
Am looking to purchase a whisker pole and replacement VHF radio for our M-15, and would appreciate input. For a VHF radio I like the Icom IC-M45 fixed unit. Have gone back and forth between a handheld and fixed unit. Since our M-15 has an electrical system and masthead antenna, I was thinking the fixed unit with upto 25 watts of transmitting power would have an advantage. Any ideas? Other makes & models?>> Randy, I use an Icom M3A Handheld in an 'aqua safe' dry bag (If I were buying now, I would get the more waterproof M2A. If I can only have one radio, I prefer it be a handheld. Mine uses either the rechargeable Nicad, or AA alkalines. During our three week BC cruise, one set of alkalines lasted the entire trip (mostly monitoring and weather station checks--very little talking). I like the idea of being able to take the radio with me in the dinghy, or worse, if the boat was lost. I also use it on my sea kayak. As for the 25 watt vs. the 5/6 watt issue. I have read several articles suggesting that the antenna is more important than the power. I think that for most of the waters I sail, the topography is the limiting factor, and more power probably would not help. <<Forespare makes a 1" diameter, 4-8 ft adjustable whisker pole that looks like a good match for an M-15. You can get it with either clamps on both ends or a clamp on one end and a "spike" on the other end. In the past, both poles I used on other boats had the clamps at both ends. Any advantage/disadvantage of the clamp over the spike on the outbound end of the pole? Where do you store a whisker pole on an M-15? Other ideas?>> I have the 'deluxe' version of the Forespar 4-8 pole. Mine has the 'clamps' on both ends, and came with a mast mount pad-eye. I have yet to mount the pad-eye (I always deliberate forever before poking holes). I have attach it to a rope loop on the gooseneck until I am sure were I want it. I store the pole atop the flotation foam under the starboard (shallow) lazzarrette. <<Thanks for all the good reading and help, Randy Graves M-15 #407 Post Falls, ID >> Good luck! Scott Grometer, M15 #478 'bebe' _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats
