I seriously didn't think I'd buy a new H/T anytime soon, if ever. I really don't use them a whole lot and I really have too many. Like most hams, I see a new H/T on the market and make up reasons to buy one. I then carry it with me a few times, then it lives on a shelf.
But towards the end of 2025, I got the bug to get more involved with APRS. At this time I remember the many YouTube videos I've seen on the VGC VR-N76 and Btech UV-PRO radios. Besides easy to use APRS features, the built in TNC appealed to me, as I also want to get back into using Winlink.
I bought the Btech Pro and was quickly impressed with this radio. Will laid out menu with easy to use features made this a winner on their own. Then add the fantastic app for programming & controls this H/T made me want to buy another, and get rid of most of my H/T's.
These radios punch way above their weight class. To the point that I am now packing up my other big brand and more expensive H/Ts to sell off, for I really no longer have a use for them. The only other H/T I plan to keep is my Yaesu FT3D. Keeping that one for the digital voice modes.
This approach of selling off extra equipment may seem odd for some, but I am not a collector. If gear doesn't bring use to me, it needs to find a new home. This also doesn't resonate with many prepper types, as they fall into the trap of "well you never know" and think having a spare for your spare spare is a must. If "2 is 1 and 1 is none" then "12 is 11" is a better place to be. I disagree.
From my perspective, more spares than I need is more gear to maintain, store, keep charged, and update. It also mean money, time and energy I could use elsewhere.
We should also be honest with ourselves. We make up excuses and reasons to buy gear we don't need, just to scratch that dopamine induced itch of getting more things. Some even make the bad excuse along the lines of "when SHTF I will be able to hand out radios to my friends and neighbors." That White Knight bullshit is, well, just bullshit we make up to buy more toys.
Links!
If you want lots of options for color, go with the VGC version.
If you're okay with either black or tan, and get NOAA weather alerts, the BTECH version is for you.