Short hike to a a local summit (Little Mtn W7W/SK-173), and tried out the Icom V86 for the first time. I've used the Yaesu FT70 and FT3D for the last few years, and wanted to try out a quality lower priced HT for SOTA. Like that it is 7w, quality build, with long battery life. The screen is smaller, and can't put full repeater names in memory (only 5 digits), but I wasn't too concerned about this. The power button is smaller, but the MON button for changing squelch is also small and a little awkward to change squelch up/down (you have to hold down MON button and then press up/down). Have tried on a few summits now, and overall like the simplicity, quality, 7w option. For another low cost SOTA radio, I'm hearing 2 local activators are using and liking the Yaesu 4X and 65...and will have to try soon. 73, James WA7JNJ
