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.

Product Description
A compact design, hourglass body-shape and comfortable side grips give the IC-M72 an outstanding ?form factor? - it's easy to use with just one hand!The M72's impressive audio output is loud enough to hear in most any marine environment - even over loud engine noise.The IC-M72 offers Icom's best-ever protection against water intrusion. This radio has been tested to survive after being submersed in 1.5m (4.9ft) depth of water for 30 minutes.A wide viewing angle, high intensity LCD is used in the IC-M72, offering bright, easy to read characters. The bright LCD backlighting and backlit keypad is great for night time operation.The IC-M72's antenna is engineered to perform with typical Icom efficiency even though it is nearly 30% shorter than previous Icom marine antenna.