Fisherman Review: New Marine Two-Way Radio

Lunker is a lifelong fisherman and boat owner. He hold a master captain license with extensive knowledge and experience of boating. Recently, he did a review about Retevis New Marine Two-Way Radio RM21 on his YouTube channel. Here are some of his views.

Overview

RM21 is Retevis newest handheld VHF radio in small size. It has a display to show menu settings. Here are several operation keys on the front to turn on some functions such as Dual/Tri-Watch Functions, Normal Scan and Priority Scan, Favorite Channel Function, Busy Channel Lock, etc. On the top, it has a removable antenna, a 3.5 mm earphone jack with waterproof cover. On the back, it has a removable belt clip. On the side, it has a PTT button, a key for noise reduction function and a key for monitor function.

Highlights

Higher Power

The max power of RM21 is 5W, which is higher than other 3W VHF handhelds. Based on field tests, more than 3 km can be covered even in dense urban areas.

Bigger Battery Capacity

The battery capacity of RM21 is 1800 mAh, which is bigger than most of handheld VHF radios. Therefore, its working time is up to about 10 hours, and its standby time is up to about 60 hours.

Noise Reduction Function (NRC)

This function help to reduce background noise and reduce echo during calls, which greatly ensure two parties can hear each other clearly, even in an emergency.

Fallen Overboard Detection

RM21 VHF marine radio features Fallen Overboard Detection. If the radio falls into water, the screen and back of the radio will emit red light, which helps you find the radio underwater in dim conditions. It also works when powered off. Here is a video to show how it works.

Conclusion

I think it would be helpful to use on a boat, that’s why they made it a marine radio. It broadcasts great distances, and it also has a very useful emergency channel. It is a great security guarantee that could save your and your fellows life. Though the power of handheld radio is lower than fixed mount radio, but it can be the good back up for fixed mount. It’s good for everywhere on the boat.

Thank you for reading this blog! If you have any questions, please leave your comments below. We are looking forward to your comments!