Selecting the right EPIRB

[RussGW270]

This question will get “You need three, and a life raft, and a helicopter to follow you, and blah blah blah....

I want to get an EPIRB. I read the Globalfix v4 is good.

I am not trying to be cheap, just trying to not pay more than I need. I know “gotten by for over 50yrs without one” but I have not gotten by with my kids with me so, I was curious what you all use.

I think I want the auto-activated one, but not sure if that really is a big deal. I do, however, like the idea of being able to replace the batteries...yes, I know the seals etc also need to be replaced, but I hate relying on someone else.

Russ

 

[GWL139]

Look at the ACR family of products

 

[glacierbaze]

Not a recommendation, just a sale.

https://www.anchorexpress.com/Survit...10-23-001-002A
https://www.survivalatsea.com/produc...iABEgKHQfD_BwE

 

[RussGW270]

I have been looking at the Category 1 with the automatic activation. To me, it would make more sense to have it at least able to be activated automatically. Not sure.

the 100 bucks seems worth the extra cost for the globalfix models. They seem to be reliable.

 

[wrxhoon]

Russ , GPS model is a must, auto activation good but not a must.

 

[Fishtales]

ACR with the built in GPS for sure. Auto activation is your choice. If hard mounting on the boat maybe, I don't have the auto as I have mine in a ditch bag.
Depending on your boating you could go with a PLB if near shore or as a back up if going offshore.

 

[RussGW270]

Welp... I think the Manual, as you all stated, will be fine..so looking at the V4 ACR Globalfix Cat 2.

Unfortunately, wife's leg is needing repair (she has a prosthetic....) so, she nix'd the EPIRB for now... back burner.

That being said, it is at the top of the list of purchases, so, will budget for it.

Also want an enclosure, but imo....the EPIRB is more important so, top of the list.

Thanks for the input fellas.

Planning the first trip. Will make sure to have a buddy boat for now, plus 2 VHF are working, and a hand held. Not great, but.. eh.. it is what it is.

R

 

[Ridge Runner]

EPIRB is also on my list for this season... Has anyone ever heard of a Grady going down so fast that a manual EPIRB couldn't be activated by way of ditch bag? From what I have heard/read, an automatic would have to be 12-15' under water before activating, and all I have ever heard of were swamped or turtled Gradys, which wouldn't deploy an automatic EPIRB?

 

[deepdesire]

Russ do you have a raft? BOE has a great sale going on now. If you have to activate your epirb chances are your going for a swim. Our Islander ventures far offshore for a single powered vessel. Shes safe and has reliable power but the thought of swimming for any length of time fifty miles off is not appealing to my 60 year old body. 4 man offshore valise raft, ditch bag with epirb, plb and hand held vhf. All fits under the passenger helm seat. Best insurance you can buy.