HAM Radio

[DeltaBravo]

I have a question about HAM handhelds. I am looking to get certified in a couple weeks with a technicians certification and am getting ready to purchase a hand held to get started with. The three I have searched and seem to like are:

ICOM IC-V82 (7W): (http://www.icomamerica.com/en/products/amateur/handheld/v82_u82/default.aspx)

ICOM IC-T70A(5W): (http://www.icomamerica.com/en/products/amateur/handheld/t70a_e/default.aspx)

Yaesu FT-270R (5W): (http://www.yaesu.com/indexVS.cfm?cmd=DisplayProducts&ProdCatID=111&encProdID=87CE6C1FF54D5BBCA7F39179AB3B1511&DivisionID=65&isArchived=0)

Any pros/cons/experiences/insights? I like the weather resistance that I keep reading about with the Yaesu

[JC Refuge]

A HAM I am not, I'm afraid.

Let's open this up to someone out there with credentials. Anyone?

[W4CNG]

The question from the person needs to go to where can you try and use one of these radio's before buying one. I live in North Atlanta near the Ham Radio Outlet which has all radio's available for use before buying one and have very good local advice on what to use. If you do not live near one of these, go find a local club and inquire members as to what they like and use before buying.