FWIW, they're still under $20 (or under $30 for a combo pack including what looks like a charger and some other stuff.) Although I'm not licensed (yet), I ordered one and will put it on the shelf for when I do get licensed, on the same principle that one's first motorcycle shouldn't be a Harley because you're going to wreck it - I don't want to spend big $ on a radio until I'm sure I'm going to stick with it as something I do.

I saw this and am now lurking on the local repeaters while I study for a Tech license - couldn't resist the deal for a "starter" radio, and it seems to work pretty well. I tried and gave up on the Code stuff back in the 70s, but since I am an electrical engineer, the only learning curve I have for the test now is the ham legalities and culture.

Thanks for the pointer!

At $20 should I just get this for passive listening during emergencies even if I know I'll never get around to getting a license to broadcast?