Fun & Casual HT!

Icom IC-P7A    (  **** out of 5)

"Micro" HT

Weight:  5.6 oz!!

VHF/UHF dual bander with 1.5W/1.0W output power (One band at a time).

1000 memories! (Does anyone really use them all?

Great ergonics. Minimum buttons for ease of use.

Well made (better than the Yaesu VX series) and the layout is clean. No clutter!  Does the antenna stand out? Yes. It’s marginal. So what? For the price ($230) it’s an outstanding little device. Xmitted audio reports are excellent. Accessories (as always) are expensive.

Programming is logical and quick. Do NOT spend the absurd $100 for the software and PC cable if you're only buying one of these. Even if you're a crazed scanner freak who loads all 1000 channels....you'll be able to do it in short order.

Three negatives: 1)As previously noted, the antenna is mediocre at best. 2) The rig does not allow for DTMF insertion. 3) No Belt Clip. You have to buy the Icom/pouch.

What I like best? Size, battery life and charge time!  In sum it’s a fun carry around for listening and occasional transmit

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This radio is not for the heavy user or those who demand deep features and rugged performance.

I'd buy the IC-91AD for the current dual band standard.

             Photos Below. Comments welcome.