tvcrider

I also have Kokatat Expedition (2012) and I was considering an 'upgrade' to the two piece Radius. Up until now all I had read were 'positive' reviews in regard the Idol/Radius. The user feedback here on NSPN definitely tips the scales. Thank you Jonathan, John and all.

Yep, that's spot on and I have already heard back from him. Thanks!

Does anyone have a current address for Chuck Sutherland (aka Nav-aid guy)? I had him at skimmer@mail3.enter.net, but that is apparently no longer valid. Thanks in advance.

Nate, I got it. The belly-pouch = the hand-warmer area on an Astral pfd. Reference you posting on pnet: http://www.paddling.net/message/showThread.html?fid=advice&tid=1602337#1602469 Thanks.

Nate, We are pretty much the same page. I just purchased a 2014 Astral Sea Wolf. The ICOM M88/72/73 will fit in the clam-shell pocket if you poke the antenna out between the dual zippers. The antenna extends approximately 3/4" of out the pocket. I am not sure what the "belly-pouch" is you refer to, same as the clam-shell? Fwiw, the M92D may have the same battery capacity as the M72/73, but ICOM list 8-10 hours of operation on a full charge. I believe the the M72/73 is rated up to 14-16 hours.

Nate, How do you find the form factor of the M92D? I have never seen the unit in person, but I have heard it is "huge" when compared to the ICOM M88/72/73. One kayaker commented that they would never want to carry a radio that large on their pfd (can't remember where). The same person also mentioned that the text on the M92D display is quite small and for we older geezers very difficult to read.

The reason I was considering the M73 Plus is that my hearing has noticeably declined over the years. Ironically the ability for me to project my voice has also decreased due to a bizarre vocal condition. Any VHF radio function that could improve me hearing or transmitting would be of benefit.

Ed, Thanks for your input.

Leon, Thanks very much. Your comments in regard to the ICOM M73 were much more helpful than any advice I received on pnet.

Has anyone compared the two models of the ICOM M73? Are the the additional features in the M73 Plus of benefit to the coastal kayaker (e.g. Last call and noise reduction)? Thanks.

Ed, Thanks very much for your post. Based on it I placed an order and just received their Windbloc beanie. It is very nice! It will make a great lunch break paddling toque for my kayaking adventures. It should also be great for XC skiing and other cool weather activities.

Yep, Optics Planet is where I picked-up my last Brunton 70P. I recollect that I even found a $5 off coupon for a being a first time order.

I previously caught this video on the UK Sea Kayak Guidebook forums. It really is incredible! Two thumbs up!

For anyone that is interested I have two Reed Aquatherm emergency hatch covers that I am willing to part with. The round will fit the 8" day hatch of a Valley boat and the oval will fit the standard VCP fore and aft deck hatch openings. Yes, they were indeed purchased from Chris at Second Wind. Neither spare cover has been used. Why am I parting with them? I recently sold my Valley Aquanaut LV and purchased a P&H boat. These emergency covers do not fit the Kajaksport hatch openings.

Doug and Rick, After carefully contemplating your contributions to this topic I believe I came down on Ellen a bit hard. I guess that was my knee-jerk reaction to the original NYT article, what I perceived as disrespect toward her rescuers, and reprinted email correspondence from Ellen posted on p.net. I am very thankful that she and her husband are alive to tell their tale and paddle another day. With that said I will take a deep breathe, two steps back and let more moderate voices prevail.