I’d be interested in hearing everyones preferences.
PLB because it stays in my pocket. I take it on other peoples boats too.
PLB AND a SPOT… Having 2 is better if 1 doesn’t work when you need it…
what skinnee said^^^
I have a plb, spot, vhf radio with dsc and gps, and a handheld gps in my ditch bag. I take this with me no matter who’s boat I’m on.
Cape Horn 24OS Sold!
twin 150 Optimax
I don’t want to be rich,
I just want 1 dollar more than I can spend!
I have a plb, fixed and handheld vhf with dsc and gps, and handheld gps. Everything floats just in case.
Still thinking about the spot…
Cliff
2006 pioneer 197 SF 150 4s
Less than $300 and operates with 406 Mhz GPS… same technology as an EPIRB. Activate this unit and signal goes directly to SAR. SPOT does not have this technology, nor does it go directly to SAR.
Hey Spring-I don’t think this particular model is bouyant and it’s not recommended that you operate it in water. I’m leaning towards the Aqualink 406 GPS PLB.
It’s a great life, if you don’t weaken…
This model is waterproof, does not float (they now offer a model that does with a slight size gain), has a wrist strap and is operable with one hand. The link below is a very good article that was written just before the ResQLink was released. I also got a follow up email from the Coast Guard when I registered mine informing me of a very sound purchase for personal marine saftey. I wear mine on my belt no matter who’s boat I’m on.
http://bolty.net/2011/04/28/by-the-numbers-spot-messenger-vs-acr-resqlink-vs-mcmurdo-fast-find-210/
“Temptation may lean on the doorbell… opportunity may only knock once”
The cool thing about having 2 different devices is that you have fault tolerance in case one does not work (yes, EPIRBS don’t last forever). The cool thing about have two different TYPES of devices is that you have several channels of communication (i.e. SPOT works through satellite communication and EPIRB\PLB work through CG monitored beacon). Also, the SPOT gives you some non-emergency ways to communicate with your family (maybe you want to check in with an ‘OK’ or a ‘Call a towboat’)…
Sure, if you have the money, you can get the fancy EPIRB with the hydrostatic release and water activation, but you have to assume that:
- The hydrostatic release will work when needed
- The water activation sensors work when needed
- The actual device (i.e signal) works when needed
There are several points of failure there.
Also, these things sit outside in the elements (rain, sun, heat, saltwater, etc) all day long. If you have one of these, you may want to be dilligent about checking\testing it, etc.
quote:Get the floating pouch for $11.
Originally posted by springtideThis model is waterproof, does not float (they now offer a model that does with a slight size gain), has a wrist strap and is operable with one hand. The link below is a very good article that was written just before the ResQLink was released. I also got a follow up email from the Coast Guard when I registered mine informing me of a very sound purchase for personal marine saftey. I wear mine on my belt no matter who’s boat I’m on.
http://bolty.net/2011/04/28/by-the-numbers-spot-messenger-vs-acr-resqlink-vs-mcmurdo-fast-find-210/
“Temptation may lean on the doorbell… opportunity may only knock once”