Radio selection help

[Mountaintrekker]

Hello all,
I'm in the market for a small AM,FM,SW,weatherband reciever that is weather proof and has either a built in hand crank or one I can run off of an external solar panel of about 14watts.
I plan on having this in my BOB and when I'm on extended trips in the backcountry. More for an occasional news update or weather report if I'm in range.
Anybody know of a good one that won't put me in the poor house?

[NightShade]

I've been looking for a decent hand crank radio that could take a lil abuse.... Anyone know how long you gotta crank for? Or is each model different? Reason I ask is because I don't wanna hafta sit there constantly cranking... If that's the case i'll go battery-op... Like the idea of lithium bats.

[crashdive123]

Mine do not have solar panels, nor are they weather proof. I think Wild Woman uses one that might fit your description - I'll look.

[oldsoldier]

I bought one that I think is what your looking for. Go to www.beprepared.com and look at the electronics I think it is. Mine cost around $40

[Rick]

I purchased an Eton FR350 that is water proof (I've never dunked it). It has all the items you outlined. They come in a variety of colors. Mine happens to be red. You'll also find a wide range of prices so shop around. I think I paid around $40.

http://www.amazon.com/American-Cross-FR350-Emergency-Radio/dp/B000EIDLWC

[pocomoonskyeyes]

You can also find some here: Hand crank and Solar powered both.
http://bepreparedtosurvive.com/Emergency%20Preparedness.htm
They also have lots of other Survival and preparedness stuff. The owner is John McCann author of "Build the perfect Survival Kit" I think it is called.

[RobertRogers]

These would be excellent in a "ruggedized" version. That is, a radio that can be taken in extreme cold / wet conditions and be expected to perform. Perhaps military grade, but still lightweight, small, and portable in the backpack.

[crashdive123]

The radio that WildWoman speaks highly of is from Freeplay. http://www.freeplayenergy.com/

[Ole WV Coot]

Most devices call for enough AA or whatever to equal 6v. If for home use or you have room buy a 6v battery and solder leads with a couple of clips from the device, will last much longer. I did that back when radios weren't allowed in company trucks and the 6v lasted many weeks longer.

[oldsoldier]

They also have lots of other Survival and preparedness stuff. The owner is John McCann author of "Build the perfect Survival Kit" I think it is called.

Hey poco funny you mention that book. It's one of three my wife got me for Christmas!