Hand held Radio
I'm at the stage of my training where I'll be spending less time in the circuit and more time away from my home base.
I'm considering investing in a hand held radio as a back up, Particularly as my home airport is in a control zone that requires permission to enter.
I have a few questions,
1) how common are comms failures? I mean actual failures not just the muppet on board has dialed the volume down ( yes I've done it!), given that I have two radios on board, should a backup hand held be a priority?
2) If I do get one, what features am I looking for. I've browsed a bit online and all I can see difference-wise is that some are more expensive than others. What are the must haves? Nice to haves? avoid at all costs?
Appreciate any thoughts