A Score for Safety!

I've wanted to pick up a waterproof VHF radio for several years now. I've had my eye on several radios, such as the icon IC-M88 and others due to their rugged-ness, waterproof-ness and compact size since space is at a premium in my Marsh Rat.

Mean while I stumbled upon a Humminbird VHF55s Plus on Craigslist for $25. It was too good of a deal to pass up, but I figured something was wrong.

Hummingbird VHF55s Plus

At first glance, everything looked fine with the radio. It functioned and came with most of the accessories.

Loose power port connection

It became clear what the problem was when I brought it home. The power port was loose in the charging cradle and would go on and off with any slight movement. 

Re-soldering loose power port on Hummingbird VHF55s Plus

Thankfully that's not more than a 5 minute fix. I popped open the case and re-soldered the loose connection and now it works like a charm.

I still need to come up with a mount to keep it close by and handy when hunting, but I have a few ideas about that. 

My family and I are exited that I  have reliable emergency communications in the boat this year .