Handheld VHF radios

[mournerambler]

Just wondering could anyone reccomend a good quality handheld VHF or even an explanation as to why I cant seem to be able to make contact with the radio I have, I have a Cobra MR HH325 but the signal seems to be poor when trying to use it out on the water in the Newcastle Co. Down area, didn't realise this until I needed to contact the Coastguard & it wouldn't work for some reason, which was a right pain in the ass to be honest, any advice would be much appreciated.

[Trevor Hill]

Uniden do a good range of radios.