I fish the potomac with a small boat , often have my 15 year old daughter with me. Have had a couple close calls and realized after our last trip that I was being foolish by not owning one of these devices. Our next trip out , we will have one on the boat. Excellent review, life saving info here. Thank you.
The ACR PLB is submersible to 33 feet for ten minutes. It can get wet but it is best to keep the antenna dry when in use to send the best signal. Most of the time is it secured near the shoulder or top of the chest to help keep it the driest it can be when floating on your back. Thanks for watching!
6:22 Good, thorough video! You're correct that the ACR PRB does not update GPS coordinates in real time. However, 30 minutes after the initial distress signal is sent (with GPS coordinates), the PLB does update its GPS position, and sends its updated position to the SARSAT network. This is covered in the PLB-400 user manual.
Went for a scuba dive during slack tide. Surfaced after 1 hour and there is no boat. Realized we are in serious trouble and started swimming as hard as we could for 2-1/2 hours. We were lucky and made it to land before the tide changed enough to sweep us out away from the island and into the open ocean. I did not know I could get a PLB I could take diving. Now that I know, it is on my shopping list.
Wow, that is scary! Glad you made it to shore! Yeah, there are submersible canisters HDVseatek and a Wicked dive canister that will both work well. We use them when diving and snorkeling. Thanks for sharing your story and thanks for watching!
Thanks. This was very informative. My GF wants to buy me one of these because I like to solo hike in the mountains. I always have a military compass, GPS, and maps, but they would not help me if I was in distress.
They likely would help you, even when hiking. I have heard that due to high number of people using them for hiking it is not guaranteed. However depending on your location and what your emergency contacts say about your status they likely would send help if it is a real distress. If you do not think they will with a PLB just use a gamin and text someone you trust to get help.
Thank you for making me realise, this is a SINGLE USE disposable unit. In the UK these cost more than my life is worth! Also, you only get 20 tests to make sure it's working before a trip. So, I think I'll pass! As a consolation, I must say your video was extremely informative and well presented.
Sure thing! Yeah in the US the ACR PLB 425 cost around $365. Not sure about in the UK. Although single-use it does last for 5 years. If you boat way offshore it is worth it but is not for everyday use for most people. The alternative is radios or Garmin subscription devices which are also expensive.
@@tartanrambo a whistle is not going to give the signal and your coordinates to the right people for rescue purposes. 🙋🏻♀️ Here in NZ we carry them out in the back country regularly and they are a life saver. Don't be too salty about a valid product, it's OK if you don't want to have it. 😊
@@tartanrambo dude come on you must be a troll by a whistle give me a break like a whistles gonna give GPS coordinates to search and rescue teams thousands of miles away. No one‘s getting rich. These are just devices at save peoples lives. I have one and I am a hiker and I usually hike in the city always within range of cell towers but I don’t get my lifeline. A cell phone going dead. $250 is very cheap insurance to be able to press the button and have a rescue team come to me from anywhere in the world. You sound like one of those woke wackos of things making money as bad.
Just got our coast guard inspection this morning. We are a 116ft Crab Vessel, since we have an EPIRB, these smaller PLBs are not necessary, but we have 2 anyways. The CG guys was surprised but glad to see that we had these as backups.
Yeah, it is good to have the smaller PLBs as well! If it is really rough out or when fishing alone it is good to wear it on a life jacket. Thanks for watching!
In my opinion, a PLB being better than an Inreach is relative. The cheapest plan is $12/month with the Inreach, so yes there is a fee. However, in an emergency you have the added ability to be in constant contact with emergency services via SMS messages from the device itself or through your bluetooth connected phone. NO cell signal is required. Great video.
Roadie, yeah even at $12 a month for 5 years that is an extra $720. Also, make sure the device always has a full battery as there is no dedicated battery life for rescue situations. If you are using it for boating the Garmin Marine 86SCI is a floating version but is much larger. I wrote an article that is in the video description detailing all the different types of PLBs. Thanks for watching!
Back in boating after a 40 year layoff. Great info, thanks. A friend, former boat Capt, with US Customs told me I need to get the ACR. I saw on another review, if you use the ACR for a real emergency, they will send you another one free of charge. Most of my boating/fishing is on local lakes. Next year we'll probably go a little offshore in calm water. Carolina Skiff 17.5' not made for rough seas. I LOL when you told about the guys peeing off the back of the boat and falling in. I could see that happening, especially after a beer or two! If by myself, I'll have the ACR in my pocket (great idea) and pee in a little bucket!
This is a really great video, and if I was on a boat I would want to have a PLB with me. I saw a typo in the description above... the 406 GHz should be 406 MHz. The Garmin Inreach Explorer does require a subscription, but there are several differences between a PLB and the Garmin. With the PLB you will always get only on level of response. That would be an emergency response. With the Garmin you will get the same thing if you hit the SOS button, but it has the ability to send & receive messages. You can tell the call center the nature of the emergency and then they will know how to handle the emergency. Also with the Garmin you can send messages to anyone that has a cell phone or email, and this is really useful if you need to communicate for some reason other than emergencies. You can also see where you are at all times, so in the case of hiking you wouldn't need to call for help if you were lost. Personally I wouldn't use the Garmin if I were at sea except for the fact that I own one, and I would bring it along anyway. Both the ACR PLB and Gamin Inreach have pluses and minuses but it all depends on what you need them for. The EPIRB and PLB units make sense for marine use because there are other ways to communicate for non-emergency situations.
Thanks for the comment Jonh. I updated to show 406 MHz. At one point I thought the GPS distress was sent in GHz but that is not correct. I agree that Garmin devices can be useful. My dad typically has both an Inreach and an ACR PLB on his lifejacket when boating by himself. I also agree that satellite text messaging is nice when hiking or boating in remote areas. Thanks for watching!
With the inreach SOS you do NOT ABSOLUTELY NOT receive the same level of response. It is more like the cheap ass "spot" I had years ago. Your SOS goes to their "center" and you'd better hope they are paying them enough to stay awake. PLB's are registered with NOAH and the SOS is received by the US AIR FORCE! BIG DIFFERNCE.
@@rockymntdan1 Have you ever used the SOS feature on a Garmin device before? They' re sending me emails evey month about different rescues that shows that the devices work as designed. When people call for help, they probably wouldn't care who it is as long as they can get the job done. btw the PLB's are registered with NOAA, and the US Air Force isn't going to respond world wide for every SOS.
@@kd5you1 go ahead bet your life on garmin's crew. But you do raise a good point about being outside the US. I would imagine Garmin is your last concern if you are in Borneo LOL. You could probably push the panic button on any device and die of starvation before rescue.
This video started playing after an installation vid for ACR's AIS device finished up, and I just wanted to say, PLB vs. AIS is highly situational. AIS, for example, is required equipment for sailors in many offshore races. It results in much faster rescues in those circumstances than the CG could achieve because it broadcasts your location to all the boats in the race in your vicinity and also sounds an alarm on your boat. It's always worth considering your situation when considering emergency equipment like this!
Yeah, that is a true point. When working on remote commercial boats in cold water if a crew member falls over AIS can be better, as the best chance of a quick rescue is from the boat which they fell overboard. However, if you are boating by yourself in remote areas it is unlikely anyone else will respond to the AIS distress.
@@michaelpirrone You keep talking about "commercial" boats here and in the video. AIS is pretty much standard on any private boat used for ocean crossings and the US coast guard isn't going to rescue you in the middle of the atlantic anyway... You're much more likely to be rescue by your own boat, a cargo ship or another private boat following a similar route. If you're a solo sailer you should probably have both AIS and a PLB.
I’ve carried an ACR 406 unit for about 14 years. When flying, canoeing, motorcycling, car trips, etc. i hope it’s wasted money because I never have to activate it. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
Good reviews . I always register products online so there's no transcription problem . Never had an incorrectly addressed/named relationship since typing into databases .
Now ACR makes a device that combines both a SARSAT and an AIS beacon. It costs a couple of bucks more that regular ACR PLBs but I think it's a worth investment for people at sea as it give you the best possible chances overall: If there is a commercial vessel near you they will be able to see you on their systems and probably get to you faster than the coast guard would. If there no other vessel near, then you still know that the coast guard helicopters and ships are on their way (you can know it for certainty because it also features Return Link).
Yeah, that seems like a good device as well. I feel like AIS is best suited for boats in remote areas that are trying to recover their own crew that falls overboard. This is especially true in cold water areas. If there are commercial boats in areas that you fish it is not a bad idea either. AIS is also available in handheld and fixed-mount VHF radios. So for a ditch bag, I would say having A PLB and quality VHF radio is ideal. I will probably just keep my ACR 425 as I wear it in a fanny pack when fishing and it is a bit smaller than the new ResQLink AIS.
Thanks man! I am looking for a beacon for exploring remote places (on land), this information was SO helpful. I think I am gonna have to buck up and get the PLB 425.
Thank you. Good video. I am picking one of these up tomorrow to shuffle between my two boats and/or other boats I go out on with friends even though I have a cat 2 EPIRB on the bigger boat.
Should ask for this for a Birthday/Christmas present. Already had an incident last month where I got lost temporarily. I also do paddleboarding, so really handy.
Yeah, it is a good gift to get someone you care about if they are willing to bring it with them! If you don't get it for a gift them you should get one anyway.
Best to get a Garmin Etrex X 2 for basic navigation. Then you won't get 'lost' so the first point of call is to get the Navigation aids and buy the PLB for when if the situation becomes an emergency.
We are looking for a PLB for our son who does a lot of hiking. First we looked into Garmin but I really like this model and the fact that it is waterproof. Do you really know when you might need assistance. You could very easily fall into a River etc. Without a waterproof PLB you will have problems. We just ordered it for Christmas. Thank you for the review. These things save lives.
Thank you for making this video and talking with the CG. Can we get a update on what you think about it or is there something better out there now just asking because you made this video some years now. I'm looking myself now and trying not to go to far down the rabbit hole. Thanks again and stay safe 👍
Sure thing. I still recommend the ACR 425 PLB. It is good to have a PLB and a floating marine handheld radio on the boat for emergencies. If you can place it in a life jacket so it is ready to go in an emergency. When we fish some of the kids wearing life jackets have a PLB or Garmin inreach in them all the time. The inreach has a high subscription cost though so the PLB is likely the best option.
Great info thanks. The battery issue on these winds me up. For people who are out at sea regularly you get your money's worth, but for someone who only goes out an average of twice a year (some years more than that but some less), having to buy a new one every 5 years makes it a ridiculously expensive item per trip!
@@CaptainCody7 I totally agree. I bought a Boston Whaler 17 and I definitely enjoy fishing a lot more in the ocean then the lakes. My wife and I'm sure many wives get worried when their husbands fish in the sea.
@@MrAJM728 Yeah this is true. If you are fishing by yourself it is a good idea to wear it in a life jacket. My dad also has a Garmin inReach so I can track him from my computer when he is kayaking and hiking. Thanks for watching!
I'll have a guess about the rubber thing, I'd say that connects to the plastic clip on one side, over the front of the PLB and onto the clip on the opposite side. Maybe its there in case the clip comes off, secures it a bit better. Along with that It might also help or stop the antenna from being accidentally flipped up exposing the activation button. Which could result in a false activation. Don't know i'm only guessing.
Very good information! Thank you for the video! I've been thinking of getting one of these for a while. I do boat on occasion, but I would primarily use it for hiking. I take hiking trips to very remote ares several times a year. Is the ACR a good unit hikers, or is it mostly just for boats? I noticed you mostly mentioned the Coast Guard when talking about who comes to provide assistance. If I was in say, a national park would they send park rangers instead, or is the ACR just linked to the Coast Guard?
Yeah, we use it when hiking in remote areas as well. The distress initially goes to a goverment ground station and then they decide which local area to contact for help. Garmin inReach is good as well for hiking, I don't like paying the monthly fee for that though.
I am a hiker, and I have the AC air unit. They’re great for that. That’s why they’re called personal locator beacons. But the purpose for the marine units in the boats the personal locator beacons are for people that hike camp that sort of thing. It doesn’t matter which unit you get the response is going to be depending upon where you’re at. If you’re in the middle of the desert, they’re not gonna call the Coast Guard. They’re going to call the nearest rescue unit to you like I’m in Phoenix Arizona so if you’re out in the desert, we would have the Maricopa County technical search and rescue team called.
Yeah, it is for hiking as well. The strobe starts when you activate the PLB. You can not turn it off without shutting off the distress. It will last 24 plus hours even with the strobe on though. It is just a pulse flash so I doubt it uses much battery.
nice video, great info, your thoughts on the entire survival kit? also is the battery replaceable? the black rubber ting is a rubber band to clip and hook onto the clip.
The battery needs to be sent in to be replaced. This should be done every 5 years. A survival kit or floating ditch bag is a great idea. Especially if you do not wear your PLB all the time. Keep it somewhere secure but in a location were it will still float away and have quick access if the boat sinks or an emergency happens quickly. We often keep the PLB's in a life jacket whether we are wearing them or not. Other good ideas for a ditch bag are a hand held waterproof radio, strobe, and cold water survival suits if you boat in cold water.
Oceans have current so if there is a 2 mph current and you are in the water for 5 hours you will be 10 miles from where you started. This makes searching for a missing boat even more difficult.
I bought one in 2018 I fish in gulf and kayak. I had. Mine with me on kayak caught a huge unknown fish which pulled me off the kayak luckily I was with other people however my acr resqlink took on water I let it dry the salt water got into it. Just sent it in we will see if they warrant it of make an excuse. Good video im searching for another incase they do not honor the warranty.
Gotcha yeah that is a bummer. I actually keep mine in a plastic bag then in a fanny pack in case in gets wet during daily use. Hopefully you get a new one from ACR!
That extra piece you had that you didn't know what it was - I don't know either but perhaps its an extra waterproofing seal in case you open the device for whatever reason
Well thinking ahead as you are is a good idea. Typically these are stored in life jackets. While floating you can just hold it out of the water. Some people strap to front shoulder strap which should be out of the water while floating on your back. Thanks for watching!
@@andrewblackledge8013 The ACR style is good for both. The Garmin devices are very popular for hiking. In the video description, I have a link to an article I wrote about all the different types of PLBs.
Yeah it will work their. The ground station will call the proper authorizes based on your location. People even use it when hiking in remote areas. Thanks for watching!
Cool, it should work. No guarantee they are going to send a rescue team to Everest though. I never looked into those details. A garmin inreach would probably be a good way to communicate. Assuming you can hit the buttons wearing gloves. Your friends can track you with an inreach as long as it is on in 10 minute to 4-hour intervals.
Captain thanks for the video. Curious if this a paid placement for ACR or why didn't you add something like Standard Horizon products they seem to be more powerful, half the price, and have a replaceable battery. One thing about ACR I've read is you have to send your unit back to them for a battery placement at a cost of $150. Is that true?
No this is not a paid placement by ACR, I just like PLBs. The battery does have to be replaced depending on the unit every 5-7 years. Typically I just get a new unit ever 5 years and keep the old one for back up. The Standard Horizon products you are talking about do have distress functions but is not the same technology. Having a hand held marine radio for an emergency is also a good idea. It sends an AIS distress signal though which relies on commercial boats in the area receiving the signal.
If I’m not mistaken, a standard horizon is a VHF radio. That’s not even the same type of thing. That’s not a personal locator beacon and not even close. The range of that is going to be at the most may be 5 miles or maybe at the most 25 miles over water but all that is a two-way radio that’s not gonna send your location to search and rescue services worldwide through a satellite network.
Have you had any issues with the ACR 425? I've read about it transmitting when not intended. I've also read about some companies refurbishing and reselling them causing registration issues. It seems like a good idea for me for fishing and diving in the Puget Sound.
I have not had any issues with the 425. As I show in the video you can test if it is working from time to time. Buy direct from ACR and it should not be refurbished. It comes with a manufacture date on it so you should know if it is new. Stores like west marine try and only keep a few in stock so they do not get old in the store as well.
Great video. I am travelling to El Salvador next week for a billfish tournament and just ordered one. As you said, "there are no safety regulations". Not even sure if they have a Coast Guard. Should get coverage there, right? Thanks for the informative video and finally pushing me to get one.
Your distress beacon should transmit worldwide. The question is, who will respond to the event? NOAA SARSAT has a webpage. I would contact them and ask them that question.
Yeah, most of them will work for both. The key is to get a buoyant model which means it will float when using it on for boating applications. I have an article in the description that shows all the different types of PLBs. If you have any other questions let me know. Thanks for watching!
Hello I live in Phoenix, Arizona and I hike anywhere near the ocean. The ones called eat herbs are made for boats and they float in the ocean. The ones like he showing is called a personal locator beacon, and those really are made more for people on the land like hiking, and camping. Just go to a ACR website and do some research. Yes they made for people who hike camp boat pilots. They have units to cover all of this. And they work anywhere in the world.
Well you only use it in a true emergency. Once activated you can not charge it again. You can send it in to get a replacement battery. This is done every 5 years or if the device was used. I am not positive how much it cost to replace the battery. Typically we just buy a new unit and keep the old one as a backup on the boat.
Battery replacement costs about $100 if done thru official channels. You can buy and replace your own for $20-30 but of course this is not recommended by ACR. The unit uses pack of regular CR123A lithium batteries bundled together with a plug in connector. The battery swap is easy to do. The issue is simply that no one will guarantee a waterproof case after it's been opened by the end user. I use my PLB on land, so that issue isn't of great concern to me. If I were out on the Atlantic, I might have a different opinion.
We usually keep the life jacket up on the dash under a window or wear it. Usually, there is somewhere that is open and mostly dry. It is waterproof to 33 feet so a small splash here or there is not a big deal. On a center console boat, I actually use to keep in a backpack in a 5-gallon bucket with a lid. ACR also makes a water-resistant floating ditch bag.
Hi do you know if there is a satelite locator (like spot gen3, or garmin in reach) that can communicate even inside a backpack (no full exposure with antenna straight up) thanks in advance! Cool chanel 👍🏼
Tristan, both of those should have no problem going through a backpack assuming an open sky. Inreach is the better of the two. My dad has a inreach and it tracks him as he hikes. When in thick woods it could have difficulty. It even works in a car if you put it near a window and not in the trunk. It is important to have in an area with with a view of sky when tracking mode is on or it can drain the battery quicker than expected. A backpack should be ok just don't pile to much on top of it. Thanks for watching!
Yeah, that is a good unit. It is really small but does not float on its own. I do show it for a size comparison in the video. Also in the article I link to in the description I show it. Thanks for watching.
What if your overboard and can't keep the antenna dry? How critical is it to keep the antenna dry? Does anyone know if the Coast Guard on the Great Lakes monitor and respond to PLB's with the same level of diligence they do in the oceans? I would assume so but after fishing Lake Michigan for 29 years , I never hear of or know of anyone with a PLB?
Yeah, we use to carry a PLB on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. PLB's even work on land when hiking. The center that revives the distress signal will contact the proper authorities based on any location in the world. I am not positive how dry the antenna must stay but the unit can be submerged underwater and not break. If pined on a life jacket near the shoulders it should stay dry when floating.
Good question, the battery on the ACR PLB can only be changed by the factory and is certified for 5 years. Typically we just but a new one every few years and keep the old one as a backup. In the video description, I provide a link to an article I wrote with information about all the different types of PLBs.
@@CaptainCody7 Hi, thanks for the video. At $110 to send it in for a replacement battery it is more cost effective than buying a new one every 5 years.
Good question, as long as you live in the USA you should be able to get a USA registered beacon and have it work everywhere in the world, as far as I know. If you live in a different country then it needs to be registered in that country. I have heard of some countries not allowing registration because they do not want that frequency broadcast. It should still work in those countries though. How quickly you will get a local response, I am not sure.
@@CaptainCody7 Appreciate your kind reply. Yes living and working here and love to hike. I tried to look into buying this but no store has it. Usually that only the case if its not working here. Anyway, thanks for your reply. cheers
Ok I travel between the EU and the states. In the EU we are on many ferry boats traveling between islands from the Med up to the North Sea. In the States we are either coastal or in the Great Lakes. Will this work in both regions of the world?
It will work in both places but you will have to register it based on where you live. You will have to get one that is US registered or EU registered based on where you live. The distress will be sent from pretty much anywhere in the world. My understanding is that only the extreme poles might not have coverage.
The ACR PLB it submersible to 33 feet for 10 minutes. It sends the best signal when it is above the water and dry. It will not send a signal under the water. Placing it on a shoulder strap and floating on your back when in the water would be good ways to keep it dry. If you are not a strong swimmer and a worried about that you could get an EPIRB that floats in the water and is attached to a lanyard.
Hi Cody. one question. Lets say we are on an atlantic crossin with 4 crew onboard and one of the crew falls in the water at night and activate the device. is there a way the boat and the rest of the crew finds out about the location of the crew member that is in the water??
Only the he CG gets the distress signal for most of the PLBs. However the latest ACR RESQLINK AIS one has a triple signal which includes AIS. So if the boat has AIS it would be able to see there location. The person who fell in would have to hit the distress button. Only an EPIRB is water activated as far as I know. If you just want AIS there are cheaper options including hand held marine radios.
thank you Cody for your quick reply. so this device does not send an AIS signal i understood. so i guess in the middle of the Atlantic when someone falls over board with that doesnt really tells anything to whoever stays onboard. thank you once again@@CaptainCody7
If you are on a registered vessel, meaning you carry more than 6 passages for business or commercial purposes, you are required to have an EPIRB on the boat. Having a PLB is also a good idea for individuals as you can wear them on a life jacket.
The ACR PLB 425 view is waterproof at 33 feet underwater for ten minutes. You just do not want it setting on the floor of the boat getting soaked on a daily basis. I usually keep it on the dash of the boat or in a backpack in a 5- gallon bucket with a lid on a small boat. In the video description, I share an article about all the types of PLBs and performance specifications. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching Street Mann!
@@CaptainCody7 Super - thanks .. I have a plb that is an older Resqlink. I ride jetskis in the intracoastal and have it on my life jacket. just wanted to make sure because of that.
I did know they released a new one. Thanks for pointing that out. I looked into it. The main difference is that it also has AIS Automatic Identification System functionality. If you fishing in remote areas and your boat is the one to find you than the AIS is important. As the boat can know your exact location. This is important in man over board situations in cold water especially. If your boat is not setup for this it is probably not worth it. Other commercial boats might see your distress call but your mostly relying on the coast guard. If you are in a area with lots of commercial boats and little coast guard presence than it could be worth it. Like in the arctic sea. Lot of radios even handheld radios also have AIS functionality. One issue with the ACR 450 is that it is not self buoyant meaning it does not float on its own. It also connects to a smart phone but I am not quite sure what that entails.
@@ia6980 If you have AIS on your chart-plotter like many commercial vessels are requred. Otherwise how will you know were the distress is coming from if a person on your boat goes overboard? I think the radio may read out the coordinates so that is a second way. But if I have never responded to a distress this way so I am not positive how it works.
Yeah ACR PLBs will work for hiking in remote areas as well. Many hikers like having a Garmin device so they can send text messages in non-emergency situations. It is not a bad idea to have both types for hiking and boating. In the video description, I provide an article I wrote with all the different types of PLBs.
"Yeah, this thing, which isn't anything like these other things? It's better than those, and I can say that even though this is an unboxing video, and therefore I haven't actually even used it yet."
We have been using them for years. Also, I test it in the video. On commercial boats with more then 6 people EPIRBs are required by the coast guard. Tens of thousands of people have been rescued cause of this technology. My dad carries both the ACR PLB and Garmin in his life jacket. I just carry a PLB. All the devices mentioned serve the same purpose. I am pointing out which one I like best, in my opinion.
In the video description, I link to articles about the best PLB and EPIRBs. For emergencies, a PLB is great to have. For basic communications, a radio or satellite message is better. Thanks for watching Joey!
Captain Cody.....my name is Syed and i am from Malaysia. My question if i buy PLB and send the Beacon Registration with full information to US. Because i stay in Malaysia; so i need to re-register with Malaysia Marine Department or Malaysia Coast Guard ?
I found this on the ACR website. "The beacon must be registered in the country of the owner’s residence. If the beacon is not programmed to that country’s code and protocol, and the residence is outside of the USA, the beacon needs to be reprogrammed." I think this means if you live in Malaysia you need to register it there if possible. If you live in the USA but are visiting Malaysia it should work while you are there. Most countries allow them to be used.
Yeah, they can use it. You register it though so the ground station will call your emergency contacts though to verify if it is a real emergency. If it is pressed offshore it is likely they will investigate either way. Just let the contacts know who is using it and you should be good.
Thanks for the question, it has almost complete global coverage on land and on water. I carry the ACR PLB when I am hunting in remote areas. The Garmin Inreach is also very popular for hikers.
Yeah, you can carry a PLB and use it for emergencies on land as well. When hiking or hunting in very remote areas I typcially bring my ACR PLB. My dad carries both the ACR and a Garmin device. Garmin inReach style devices are nice for hiking as well. In the video description is an article I wrote with a review of all the different types of PLBs. Thanks for watching!
It can be used on both. It is commonly carried by hikers in remote areas. In the description, I provide a link to an article I wrote with more information. Thanks for watching!
I think he's overselling it. Press the button and the calvary's on its way in 30 min, like Domino's Pizza? Sure unless the weather is bad - then it could take hours. Or unless the weather is really bad - then they might not be able to come at all. You can use it hiking? Where I hike, the forest rangers warn that it can take 1 or 2 days for a rescue party to reach you after hitting your PLB distress signal. And all of the above assumes that nobody else is hitting their PLB distress signal. There was an article recently about a search and rescue team in WY who can no longer respond to every PLB signal because so many people are getting themselves into trouble.
You are correct that it does depend on the situation. The beacon is registered and they call the emergency contacts to determine if it is a real emergency. If it is on the water the coast guard is good at responding quickly. In cold water people do not live long and this does save lots of people's lives. I wear this on a fanny pack when offshore on a boat. In some areas like you said the local emergency services might not be available to respond. In Alaska the Coast Guards folks I talked to said they are happy to respond to hiking or boating emergencies as that is their job. Also they said do not be afraid to hit the button if you are having a real emergency. However if you are just out of gas or something minor you should use your VHF radio or cell phone to call sea tow or call a friend for help.
The battery life lasts more than 24 hours when in use. Use battery shelf life is certified for 5 years from the date of manufacture. I provide more details in the best PLB article I wrote which is in the video description. The ocean signal rescueMe PLB does have a 7-year self-life and is smaller. However, is does not float. I think the ACR PLB 425 view is the best all-around PLB for rescue purposes for boating.
@@cliftoncornelison8820 yes it's replaceable for 100+ USD. You get new seals too. They test it also. After 5 years better to buy new one as they will be much better. Probably be like 200 for new. So then look at it as 50 per year cost. You can't eat a nice meal out for 50 bucks. Skip a meal.
I think it depends on the brand and model. Which one do you have? Some types you should still be able to send back as far as I know. Some EPIRB's batteries are user-replaceable. However, I think the PLBs do need to be sent back for replacement.
@@kevinthomas5270 Yeah, I just checked the site and you can replace the battery on the PLB 400 and 425 for around $80. It is good for 5 years from the date of manufacture when you buy the unit. Typically we just buy new units every few years and keep the old ones as backups on the boat. I hope this helps. I also wrote an article with more info in the video description. Thanks for watching!
None that I know of that have a built-in GPS. There are some that engine kill switches and text message capabilities. However, without GPS you are a small fish in a big sea in my opion. There are some like the Ocean Signal RescueMe that can be easily put in your pocket. I have an article with all the types in the video description. Thanks for watching!
5:49 That's not entirely correct. I'm in the market for a PLB right now for solo winter camping and you misconstrued the costs a bit. While it is correct that the ACR has no *monthly* costs, there is also no rescue insurance you can get for it that I've found, meaning you're on the hook for the entire cost of your rescue which can be life-cripplingly expensive. An Inreach device will significantly save you on rescue costs as you can pay like $30/year for up to 100,000 dollars worth of rescue insurance per year. And really, $11-20/mo is "expensive"? Your cell phone costs more than that per month. You're also standing on a huge aluminum fishing boat talking about "expensive". Come on, man....
Inreach devices are good as well. It is a good idea to have both a PLB and in InReach for text message communication when solo hiking and boating. The ACR uses all government networks and there is not a rescue fee if you need to be rescued for an emergency. In the description, I link to an article I wrote about all the best PLBs with more info. Thanks for watching!
I’ve never heard of anyone being charge for a rescue. One of my best friends is part of the Maricopa County, technical search and rescue team they perform rescues in the desert in the lakes all the time. There’s no charge. My ex-wife was rescued off of Camelback Mountain in Phoenix with a helicopter no charge. My brother was a Scottsdale police officer 20 years involved in any rescues no charge. I know I don’t know about other countries I can’t say, but in America there’s generally no charge to be rescued. That other stuff sounds like some kind of insurance scam. It’s like warranty coverage on your car. Just trying to get you to pay some monthly fee at a fear be in charge. Again that may be fine if you’re in other countries but in America, I wouldn’t worry about it. I’m a hiker in the Phoenix area and I carry a personal locator beacon. I wouldn’t even think twice about the cost of a rescue. On the contrary, though a Garmin in reach as a fraction of the power of the ACR brand, the ACR has five lots of power, which means you can get out if you’re in a deep canyon, or under a snow covered canopy or maybe you’ve got heavy weather above you. The Garmin units in this spot units will never get out there usually only 1/10 of 1 W. They’re also on a completely different privatized for profit satellite. Netwerk in the past they’ve not responded people of died because they have thought it was not an emergency. That can’t happen with the ACR Netwerk
Yeah, it is good to have both. Having a PLB in a live jacket you wear all the time is probably best, if you only have one device. You could be lost the sea but separated from your boat, fall overboard. Category one EPIRBs are good for cases where the boat sinks quickly.
Yeah, that would have been good. I thought it might just have been the display on the go pro refreshing at the same rate as the display. I should have changed the settings and shutter speed like you suggested.
The rubber strap can be clipped to the cradle hooks and used to secure the PLB to a life jacket. Watch this video for a demonstration. He shows how on another model style at the 30 second time mark th-cam.com/video/-KO0Wuo3sdI/w-d-xo.html
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I fish the potomac with a small boat , often have my 15 year old daughter with me. Have had a couple close calls and realized after our last trip that I was being foolish by not owning one of these devices. Our next trip out , we will have one on the boat. Excellent review, life saving info here. Thank you.
Glad you found it helpful. Yeah, that is smart that you are getting one. Thanks for watching!
The Coast Guard also recommends a good quality VHF Marine radio.
The ACR PLB is submersible to 33 feet for ten minutes. It can get wet but it is best to keep the antenna dry when in use to send the best signal. Most of the time is it secured near the shoulder or top of the chest to help keep it the driest it can be when floating on your back. Thanks for watching!
Missing 411 strange missing cases .unsolved 1600 people went missing from
Our public lands without a trace .
Thank you so much for the video! I have a question, I don't live in the US, can I still register this device?
6:22 Good, thorough video! You're correct that the ACR PRB does not update GPS coordinates in real time. However, 30 minutes after the initial distress signal is sent (with GPS coordinates), the PLB does update its GPS position, and sends its updated position to the SARSAT network. This is covered in the PLB-400 user manual.
Thanks!
This is one of the most important videos I've ever watched to date!!! Thank you Captain Cody!!! U DA MAN!!!
Sure thing! Thanks for watching!
Went for a scuba dive during slack tide. Surfaced after 1 hour and there is no boat. Realized we are in serious trouble and started swimming as hard as we could for 2-1/2 hours. We were lucky and made it to land before the tide changed enough to sweep us out away from the island and into the open ocean.
I did not know I could get a PLB I could take diving. Now that I know, it is on my shopping list.
Wow, that is scary! Glad you made it to shore! Yeah, there are submersible canisters HDVseatek and a Wicked dive canister that will both work well. We use them when diving and snorkeling. Thanks for sharing your story and thanks for watching!
I’m gonna get one of these and carry it with me for when I go hiking alone.
Cool, seems like a great idea!
I have since i bought mine better to be safe then sorry and thankfully I've not had to use it
Thanks. This was very informative. My GF wants to buy me one of these because I like to solo hike in the mountains. I always have a military compass, GPS, and maps, but they would not help me if I was in distress.
They likely would help you, even when hiking. I have heard that due to high number of people using them for hiking it is not guaranteed. However depending on your location and what your emergency contacts say about your status they likely would send help if it is a real distress. If you do not think they will with a PLB just use a gamin and text someone you trust to get help.
Thank you for making me realise, this is a SINGLE USE disposable unit. In the UK these cost more than my life is worth! Also, you only get 20 tests to make sure it's working before a trip. So, I think I'll pass! As a consolation, I must say your video was extremely informative and well presented.
Sure thing! Yeah in the US the ACR PLB 425 cost around $365. Not sure about in the UK. Although single-use it does last for 5 years. If you boat way offshore it is worth it but is not for everyday use for most people. The alternative is radios or Garmin subscription devices which are also expensive.
You need to re-value your life!
@@billruttan117 Sorry, but you need to stop pushing products that make unscrupulous people rich! Buy a whistle!!!
@@tartanrambo a whistle is not going to give the signal and your coordinates to the right people for rescue purposes. 🙋🏻♀️
Here in NZ we carry them out in the back country regularly and they are a life saver.
Don't be too salty about a valid product, it's OK if you don't want to have it. 😊
@@tartanrambo dude come on you must be a troll by a whistle give me a break like a whistles gonna give GPS coordinates to search and rescue teams thousands of miles away. No one‘s getting rich. These are just devices at save peoples lives. I have one and I am a hiker and I usually hike in the city always within range of cell towers but I don’t get my lifeline. A cell phone going dead. $250 is very cheap insurance to be able to press the button and have a rescue team come to me from anywhere in the world. You sound like one of those woke wackos of things making money as bad.
Just got our coast guard inspection this morning. We are a 116ft Crab Vessel, since we have an EPIRB, these smaller PLBs are not necessary, but we have 2 anyways. The CG guys was surprised but glad to see that we had these as backups.
Yeah, it is good to have the smaller PLBs as well! If it is really rough out or when fishing alone it is good to wear it on a life jacket. Thanks for watching!
In my opinion, a PLB being better than an Inreach is relative. The cheapest plan is $12/month with the Inreach, so yes there is a fee. However, in an emergency you have the added ability to be in constant contact with emergency services via SMS messages from the device itself or through your bluetooth connected phone. NO cell signal is required. Great video.
Roadie, yeah even at $12 a month for 5 years that is an extra $720. Also, make sure the device always has a full battery as there is no dedicated battery life for rescue situations. If you are using it for boating the Garmin Marine 86SCI is a floating version but is much larger. I wrote an article that is in the video description detailing all the different types of PLBs. Thanks for watching!
Back in boating after a 40 year layoff. Great info, thanks. A friend, former boat Capt, with US Customs told me I need to get the ACR. I saw on another review, if you use the ACR for a real emergency, they will send you another one free of charge. Most of my boating/fishing is on local lakes. Next year we'll probably go a little offshore in calm water. Carolina Skiff 17.5' not made for rough seas. I LOL when you told about the guys peeing off the back of the boat and falling in. I could see that happening, especially after a beer or two! If by myself, I'll have the ACR in my pocket (great idea) and pee in a little bucket!
Glad you found it helpful! Yeah, keeping the PLB on you sounds like a good idea! ha ha
Really good to know the reality of how the SAR crews operate to maximize your odds. Thanks for making the video.
Sure thing, glad it was helpful!
This is a really great video, and if I was on a boat I would want to have a PLB with me. I saw a typo in the description above... the 406 GHz should be 406 MHz. The Garmin Inreach Explorer does require a subscription, but there are several differences between a PLB and the Garmin. With the PLB you will always get only on level of response. That would be an emergency response. With the Garmin you will get the same thing if you hit the SOS button, but it has the ability to send & receive messages. You can tell the call center the nature of the emergency and then they will know how to handle the emergency. Also with the Garmin you can send messages to anyone that has a cell phone or email, and this is really useful if you need to communicate for some reason other than emergencies. You can also see where you are at all times, so in the case of hiking you wouldn't need to call for help if you were lost. Personally I wouldn't use the Garmin if I were at sea except for the fact that I own one, and I would bring it along anyway. Both the ACR PLB and Gamin Inreach have pluses and minuses but it all depends on what you need them for. The EPIRB and PLB units make sense for marine use because there are other ways to communicate for non-emergency situations.
Thanks for the comment Jonh. I updated to show 406 MHz. At one point I thought the GPS distress was sent in GHz but that is not correct. I agree that Garmin devices can be useful. My dad typically has both an Inreach and an ACR PLB on his lifejacket when boating by himself. I also agree that satellite text messaging is nice when hiking or boating in remote areas. Thanks for watching!
@@CaptainCody7
I have got costumes want to buy more the 200 plb
With the inreach SOS you do NOT ABSOLUTELY NOT receive the same level of response. It is more like the cheap ass "spot" I had years ago. Your SOS goes to their "center" and you'd better hope they are paying them enough to stay awake. PLB's are registered with NOAH and the SOS is received by the US AIR FORCE! BIG DIFFERNCE.
@@rockymntdan1 Have you ever used the SOS feature on a Garmin device before? They' re sending me emails evey month about different rescues that shows that the devices work as designed. When people call for help, they probably wouldn't care who it is as long as they can get the job done. btw the PLB's are registered with NOAA, and the US Air Force isn't going to respond world wide for every SOS.
@@kd5you1 go ahead bet your life on garmin's crew. But you do raise a good point about being outside the US. I would imagine Garmin is your last concern if you are in Borneo LOL. You could probably push the panic button on any device and die of starvation before rescue.
This video started playing after an installation vid for ACR's AIS device finished up, and I just wanted to say, PLB vs. AIS is highly situational. AIS, for example, is required equipment for sailors in many offshore races. It results in much faster rescues in those circumstances than the CG could achieve because it broadcasts your location to all the boats in the race in your vicinity and also sounds an alarm on your boat. It's always worth considering your situation when considering emergency equipment like this!
Yeah, that is a true point. When working on remote commercial boats in cold water if a crew member falls over AIS can be better, as the best chance of a quick rescue is from the boat which they fell overboard. However, if you are boating by yourself in remote areas it is unlikely anyone else will respond to the AIS distress.
@@CaptainCody7 yep! All about your best chances in any given scenario!
@@michaelpirrone You keep talking about "commercial" boats here and in the video. AIS is pretty much standard on any private boat used for ocean crossings and the US coast guard isn't going to rescue you in the middle of the atlantic anyway... You're much more likely to be rescue by your own boat, a cargo ship or another private boat following a similar route. If you're a solo sailer you should probably have both AIS and a PLB.
I’ve carried an ACR 406 unit for about 14 years. When flying, canoeing, motorcycling, car trips, etc. i hope it’s wasted money because I never have to activate it.
Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
Yeah exactly!
Got 1 yesterday for Christmas. Great additional peace of mind.
Awesome, yet it is defiantly a nice assurance when you are offshore!
I have 1 more question. Will I know from my National Beacon Registry that my unit is active? I sent in the documents right away.@@CaptainCody7
Good reviews . I always register products online so there's no transcription problem . Never had an incorrectly addressed/named relationship since typing into databases .
Yeah, that is a good way to register the beacon!
Now ACR makes a device that combines both a SARSAT and an AIS beacon.
It costs a couple of bucks more that regular ACR PLBs but I think it's a worth investment for people at sea as it give you the best possible chances overall:
If there is a commercial vessel near you they will be able to see you on their systems and probably get to you faster than the coast guard would.
If there no other vessel near, then you still know that the coast guard helicopters and ships are on their way (you can know it for certainty because it also features Return Link).
Yeah, that seems like a good device as well. I feel like AIS is best suited for boats in remote areas that are trying to recover their own crew that falls overboard. This is especially true in cold water areas. If there are commercial boats in areas that you fish it is not a bad idea either. AIS is also available in handheld and fixed-mount VHF radios. So for a ditch bag, I would say having A PLB and quality VHF radio is ideal. I will probably just keep my ACR 425 as I wear it in a fanny pack when fishing and it is a bit smaller than the new ResQLink AIS.
Thank you for the information. Next time I go charter fishing on the west coast, or Alaska, I will make sure that I have one!
Good deal, thanks for watching!
Thanks man! I am looking for a beacon for exploring remote places (on land), this information was SO helpful. I think I am gonna have to buck up and get the PLB 425.
Glad it was helpful, seems like a good idea! We carry these when hunting in remote areas also.
Thank you. Good video. I am picking one of these up tomorrow to shuffle between my two boats and/or other boats I go out on with friends even though I have a cat 2 EPIRB on the bigger boat.
That is a good idea, thanks for watching!
Should ask for this for a Birthday/Christmas present. Already had an incident last month where I got lost temporarily. I also do paddleboarding, so really handy.
Yeah, it is a good gift to get someone you care about if they are willing to bring it with them! If you don't get it for a gift them you should get one anyway.
@@CaptainCody7 I was talking for me, lol!
Best to get a Garmin Etrex X 2 for basic navigation. Then you won't get 'lost' so the first point of call is to get the Navigation aids and buy the PLB for when if the situation becomes an emergency.
We are looking for a PLB for our son who does a lot of hiking. First we looked into Garmin but I really like this model and the fact that it is waterproof. Do you really know when you might need assistance. You could very easily fall into a River etc. Without a waterproof PLB you will have problems. We just ordered it for Christmas. Thank you for the review. These things save lives.
True, yeah it is a perfect gift. Waterproof and it floats. The Garmin has it's nice features as well.
Thank you for making this video and talking with the CG. Can we get a update on what you think about it or is there something better out there now just asking because you made this video some years now. I'm looking myself now and trying not to go to far down the rabbit hole. Thanks again and stay safe 👍
Sure thing. I still recommend the ACR 425 PLB. It is good to have a PLB and a floating marine handheld radio on the boat for emergencies. If you can place it in a life jacket so it is ready to go in an emergency. When we fish some of the kids wearing life jackets have a PLB or Garmin inreach in them all the time. The inreach has a high subscription cost though so the PLB is likely the best option.
Grabbing one for taking with me on fishing charters. Great video.
That is a great idea! Good luck on the charters!
A dry bag or box would be an excellent idea. Supposedly these will float, but I've also heard cases of leaking PRBs.
Incredible video, just ordered mine as well as an EPIRB.
Thanks! Sweet, that was a good decision!
Great info thanks. The battery issue on these winds me up.
For people who are out at sea regularly you get your money's worth, but for someone who only goes out an average of twice a year (some years more than that but some less), having to buy a new one every 5 years makes it a ridiculously expensive item per trip!
Yeah, that is true! Still, $60 per year is better than the subscription services needed with a Garmin.
Excellent tutorial. I will buy one soon, peace of mind survival tool.
Glad you found it helpful. Yeah, it really is nice knowing there is an easy way to contact help in the remote areas!
@@CaptainCody7 I totally agree. I bought a Boston Whaler 17 and I definitely enjoy fishing a lot more in the ocean then the lakes. My wife and I'm sure many wives get worried when their husbands fish in the sea.
@@MrAJM728 Yeah this is true. If you are fishing by yourself it is a good idea to wear it in a life jacket. My dad also has a Garmin inReach so I can track him from my computer when he is kayaking and hiking. Thanks for watching!
Imformative vid. U sold me on buying a PLB, it’s a good call!
Yeah, it is a smart decision!
Cool vid. Personally, I prefer to bring a PLB & satellite phone.
Thanks, yeah that is a good idea!
406 MHz, not GHz. Very nice video though! Gave me a lot of good information about the PLB.
Glad you like it, thank for watching Paul!
@@CaptainCody7 cargo ship spilt in two from Japan Aug 12 2021
@@mikerice5298 Wow hope they had a plb!
That thing is an "Oral Inflation Clip", for attaching the unit to an inflator tube. Page 28 in the manual. You read the manual.... didn't you?
Thanks for the info, that is correct.
Nice clear information, thank you.
Sure thing, thanks for watching!
I'll have a guess about the rubber thing, I'd say that connects to the plastic clip on one side, over the front of the PLB and onto the clip on the opposite side.
Maybe its there in case the clip comes off, secures it a bit better.
Along with that It might also help or stop the antenna from being accidentally flipped up exposing the activation button. Which could result in a false activation.
Don't know i'm only guessing.
Yeah, I think you are correct. That would be another way to attach it to a life jacket strap without having to use the clip as well.
Great video. Extremely informative and helpful. Thank you.
Sure thing Jacob, thanks for watching!
Very good information! Thank you for the video! I've been thinking of getting one of these for a while. I do boat on occasion, but I would primarily use it for hiking. I take hiking trips to very remote ares several times a year. Is the ACR a good unit hikers, or is it mostly just for boats? I noticed you mostly mentioned the Coast Guard when talking about who comes to provide assistance. If I was in say, a national park would they send park rangers instead, or is the ACR just linked to the Coast Guard?
Yeah, we use it when hiking in remote areas as well. The distress initially goes to a goverment ground station and then they decide which local area to contact for help. Garmin inReach is good as well for hiking, I don't like paying the monthly fee for that though.
I am a hiker, and I have the AC air unit. They’re great for that. That’s why they’re called personal locator beacons. But the purpose for the marine units in the boats the personal locator beacons are for people that hike camp that sort of thing. It doesn’t matter which unit you get the response is going to be depending upon where you’re at. If you’re in the middle of the desert, they’re not gonna call the Coast Guard. They’re going to call the nearest rescue unit to you like I’m in Phoenix Arizona so if you’re out in the desert, we would have the Maricopa County technical search and rescue team called.
I understand this is for hiking too. not just for water. Also can you NOT use the strobe to make it last longer and use a different strobe instead?
Yeah, it is for hiking as well. The strobe starts when you activate the PLB. You can not turn it off without shutting off the distress. It will last 24 plus hours even with the strobe on though. It is just a pulse flash so I doubt it uses much battery.
I had a Spot, and it leaked (can you believe it!!!!) and it's stuffed. The service was terrible. They said 'upgrade'. So I now have a PLB1
Yeah, seems like a good change for an emergency device! Thanks for watching!
God bless the CG!
Yeah, the Coast Guard is great!
Great video. Well done.
Thanks for watching!
nice video, great info, your thoughts on the entire survival kit? also is the battery replaceable? the black rubber ting is a rubber band to clip and hook onto the clip.
The battery needs to be sent in to be replaced. This should be done every 5 years. A survival kit or floating ditch bag is a great idea. Especially if you do not wear your PLB all the time. Keep it somewhere secure but in a location were it will still float away and have quick access if the boat sinks or an emergency happens quickly. We often keep the PLB's in a life jacket whether we are wearing them or not. Other good ideas for a ditch bag are a hand held waterproof radio, strobe, and cold water survival suits if you boat in cold water.
Great video! Very informative.
Thanks, glad you found it useful!
Remember a accident where they left one driver behind on a dive boat. They didn't count if everyone was back on the boat.
Yeah that can happen, always good to have a buddy and a PLB. Thanks for watching PaddleDogC5!
What is drifting vs trailing you briefly mentioned? Sounds scary. Please elaborate
Oceans have current so if there is a 2 mph current and you are in the water for 5 hours you will be 10 miles from where you started. This makes searching for a missing boat even more difficult.
Excelent video. Congrats!
Thank you!
I bought one in 2018 I fish in gulf and kayak. I had. Mine with me on kayak caught a huge unknown fish which pulled me off the kayak luckily I was with other people however my acr resqlink took on water I let it dry the salt water got into it. Just sent it in we will see if they warrant it of make an excuse. Good video im searching for another incase they do not honor the warranty.
Gotcha yeah that is a bummer. I actually keep mine in a plastic bag then in a fanny pack in case in gets wet during daily use. Hopefully you get a new one from ACR!
Captain Cody & friends don't pee in the water I swim in. 😂 😭
No promises...ha ah
That extra piece you had that you didn't know what it was - I don't know either but perhaps its an extra waterproofing seal in case you open the device for whatever reason
I was told by someone that it stretches across the devise so that it can be attached to life jackets. I think it works with the second clip style.
@@CaptainCody7 Oh that makes sense! I learn a lot from your videos, keep up the good work!
@@devo2639 Thanks Devin!
Very well done, detailed video.👍
Thanks for watching Big J!
great info. If you are in the water and need to activate how do you keep antenna dry?
Well thinking ahead as you are is a good idea. Typically these are stored in life jackets. While floating you can just hold it out of the water. Some people strap to front shoulder strap which should be out of the water while floating on your back. Thanks for watching!
Thanks. I am looking for a dual purpose, water/ hiking? Is this still the best?
@@andrewblackledge8013 The ACR style is good for both. The Garmin devices are very popular for hiking. In the video description, I have a link to an article I wrote about all the different types of PLBs.
Does this work on in shore lakes and reservoirs? Patrolled by local law enforcement non coast guard.
Yeah it will work their. The ground station will call the proper authorizes based on your location. People even use it when hiking in remote areas. Thanks for watching!
Will this work international? I'm going to climb Everest Basecamp in the next few months. Would love to have my own PLB.
Cool, it should work. No guarantee they are going to send a rescue team to Everest though. I never looked into those details. A garmin inreach would probably be a good way to communicate. Assuming you can hit the buttons wearing gloves. Your friends can track you with an inreach as long as it is on in 10 minute to 4-hour intervals.
Captain thanks for the video. Curious if this a paid placement for ACR or why didn't you add something like Standard Horizon products they seem to be more powerful, half the price, and have a replaceable battery. One thing about ACR I've read is you have to send your unit back to them for a battery placement at a cost of $150. Is that true?
No this is not a paid placement by ACR, I just like PLBs. The battery does have to be replaced depending on the unit every 5-7 years. Typically I just get a new unit ever 5 years and keep the old one for back up. The Standard Horizon products you are talking about do have distress functions but is not the same technology. Having a hand held marine radio for an emergency is also a good idea. It sends an AIS distress signal though which relies on commercial boats in the area receiving the signal.
If I’m not mistaken, a standard horizon is a VHF radio. That’s not even the same type of thing. That’s not a personal locator beacon and not even close. The range of that is going to be at the most may be 5 miles or maybe at the most 25 miles over water but all that is a two-way radio that’s not gonna send your location to search and rescue services worldwide through a satellite network.
Have you had any issues with the ACR 425? I've read about it transmitting when not intended. I've also read about some companies refurbishing and reselling them causing registration issues.
It seems like a good idea for me for fishing and diving in the Puget Sound.
I have not had any issues with the 425. As I show in the video you can test if it is working from time to time. Buy direct from ACR and it should not be refurbished. It comes with a manufacture date on it so you should know if it is new. Stores like west marine try and only keep a few in stock so they do not get old in the store as well.
@@CaptainCody7 solid advice, thank you.
Great video. I am travelling to El Salvador next week for a billfish tournament and just ordered one. As you said, "there are no safety regulations". Not even sure if they have a Coast Guard. Should get coverage there, right? Thanks for the informative video and finally pushing me to get one.
I am not sure the exact detail of who they contact in that country. But I bet if there is a distress they will try and contact local help.
Your distress beacon should transmit worldwide. The question is, who will respond to the event? NOAA SARSAT has a webpage. I would contact them and ask them that question.
Can you link the PLB case you have for SCUBA?
In the video description, I provide an article I wrote that has a link to the container.
Ok do they make one for land and sea ? I hike in the backcountry and dive . So I'm hoping they make one for booth
Yeah, most of them will work for both. The key is to get a buoyant model which means it will float when using it on for boating applications. I have an article in the description that shows all the different types of PLBs. If you have any other questions let me know. Thanks for watching!
@@CaptainCody7 thank you for the help . And the fastest response I ever gotten!
Hello I live in Phoenix, Arizona and I hike anywhere near the ocean. The ones called eat herbs are made for boats and they float in the ocean. The ones like he showing is called a personal locator beacon, and those really are made more for people on the land like hiking, and camping. Just go to a ACR website and do some research. Yes they made for people who hike camp boat pilots. They have units to cover all of this. And they work anywhere in the world.
Why would you need a brand new one after you use it.
Is this A "disposable unit"? I've been thinking of buying one?
Well you only use it in a true emergency. Once activated you can not charge it again. You can send it in to get a replacement battery. This is done every 5 years or if the device was used. I am not positive how much it cost to replace the battery. Typically we just buy a new unit and keep the old one as a backup on the boat.
Battery replacement costs about $100 if done thru official channels. You can buy and replace your own for $20-30 but of course this is not recommended by ACR. The unit uses pack of regular CR123A lithium batteries bundled together with a plug in connector. The battery swap is easy to do. The issue is simply that no one will guarantee a waterproof case after it's been opened by the end user. I use my PLB on land, so that issue isn't of great concern to me. If I were out on the Atlantic, I might have a different opinion.
you mentioned you have to keep the unit dry. if your bobbing around in the ocean with just a lifejacket how are you sposed to keep it dry?
We usually keep the life jacket up on the dash under a window or wear it. Usually, there is somewhere that is open and mostly dry. It is waterproof to 33 feet so a small splash here or there is not a big deal. On a center console boat, I actually use to keep in a backpack in a 5-gallon bucket with a lid. ACR also makes a water-resistant floating ditch bag.
Captain Cody do use standard 5 gal bucket lids or a gamma lid?
shayne202 he’s not answering your question. If your in the water your piss wet though!!!
Hi do you know if there is a satelite locator
(like spot gen3, or garmin in reach) that can communicate even inside a backpack (no full exposure with antenna straight up) thanks in advance! Cool chanel 👍🏼
Tristan, both of those should have no problem going through a backpack assuming an open sky. Inreach is the better of the two. My dad has a inreach and it tracks him as he hikes. When in thick woods it could have difficulty. It even works in a car if you put it near a window and not in the trunk. It is important to have in an area with with a view of sky when tracking mode is on or it can drain the battery quicker than expected. A backpack should be ok just don't pile to much on top of it. Thanks for watching!
What about RESCUEME PLB1?
Yeah, that is a good unit. It is really small but does not float on its own. I do show it for a size comparison in the video. Also in the article I link to in the description I show it. Thanks for watching.
@@CaptainCody7 thank you very much. I read that it comes with a case for floating or available to purchase
What if your overboard and can't keep the antenna dry? How critical is it to keep the antenna dry? Does anyone know if the Coast Guard on the Great Lakes monitor and respond to PLB's with the same level of diligence they do in the oceans? I would assume so but after fishing Lake Michigan for 29 years , I never hear of or know of anyone with a PLB?
Yeah, we use to carry a PLB on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. PLB's even work on land when hiking. The center that revives the distress signal will contact the proper authorities based on any location in the world. I am not positive how dry the antenna must stay but the unit can be submerged underwater and not break. If pined on a life jacket near the shoulders it should stay dry when floating.
Nice work! Very informative short sweet to the point you helped me chose the right PLB Thank you 🙏
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching!
As a pilot I fly to very remote places your information is a life saver! Nice 👍🏻 work 👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
what will be displayed on any vessel when you are over board w an PAIS? Man over board or what?
I am not quite sure what you mean?
It this good for hikers?
Yeah, it is good for hiking in remote areas as well.
Great video! So it's single use because of the battery? You can't replace the battery yourself?
Good question, the battery on the ACR PLB can only be changed by the factory and is certified for 5 years. Typically we just but a new one every few years and keep the old one as a backup. In the video description, I provide a link to an article I wrote with information about all the different types of PLBs.
@@CaptainCody7 Hi, thanks for the video. At $110 to send it in for a replacement battery it is more cost effective than buying a new one every 5 years.
I am planning to do some hiking in China, is that working in China as well ?
Great Video !
Good question, as long as you live in the USA you should be able to get a USA registered beacon and have it work everywhere in the world, as far as I know. If you live in a different country then it needs to be registered in that country. I have heard of some countries not allowing registration because they do not want that frequency broadcast. It should still work in those countries though. How quickly you will get a local response, I am not sure.
@@CaptainCody7 Appreciate your kind reply. Yes living and working here and love to hike. I tried to look into buying this but no store has it. Usually that only the case if its not working here. Anyway, thanks for your reply. cheers
Ok I travel between the EU and the states. In the EU we are on many ferry boats traveling between islands from the Med up to the North Sea. In the States we are either coastal or in the Great Lakes. Will this work in both regions of the world?
It will work in both places but you will have to register it based on where you live. You will have to get one that is US registered or EU registered based on where you live. The distress will be sent from pretty much anywhere in the world. My understanding is that only the extreme poles might not have coverage.
nice video but did you say that you have to keep it dry how are you supposed to keep it dry if you're bobbing around out there like a cork
The ACR PLB it submersible to 33 feet for 10 minutes. It sends the best signal when it is above the water and dry. It will not send a signal under the water. Placing it on a shoulder strap and floating on your back when in the water would be good ways to keep it dry. If you are not a strong swimmer and a worried about that you could get an EPIRB that floats in the water and is attached to a lanyard.
Hi Cody. one question. Lets say we are on an atlantic crossin with 4 crew onboard and one of the crew falls in the water at night and activate the device. is there a way the boat and the rest of the crew finds out about the location of the crew member that is in the water??
Only the he CG gets the distress signal for most of the PLBs. However the latest ACR RESQLINK AIS one has a triple signal which includes AIS. So if the boat has AIS it would be able to see there location. The person who fell in would have to hit the distress button. Only an EPIRB is water activated as far as I know. If you just want AIS there are cheaper options including hand held marine radios.
thank you Cody for your quick reply. so this device does not send an AIS signal i understood. so i guess in the middle of the Atlantic when someone falls over board with that doesnt really tells anything to whoever stays onboard. thank you once again@@CaptainCody7
Why aren't these becons made mandatory for all who fish off shore or any other remote areas
If you are on a registered vessel, meaning you carry more than 6 passages for business or commercial purposes, you are required to have an EPIRB on the boat. Having a PLB is also a good idea for individuals as you can wear them on a life jacket.
You said " you have to keep it dry." what exactly do you mean. If I am in a boat in storm or distress is that a problem you think?
The ACR PLB 425 view is waterproof at 33 feet underwater for ten minutes. You just do not want it setting on the floor of the boat getting soaked on a daily basis. I usually keep it on the dash of the boat or in a backpack in a 5- gallon bucket with a lid on a small boat. In the video description, I share an article about all the types of PLBs and performance specifications. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching Street Mann!
@@CaptainCody7 Super - thanks .. I have a plb that is an older Resqlink. I ride jetskis in the intracoastal and have it on my life jacket. just wanted to make sure because of that.
What u think of new acr 450 ais beacon? Its narrow and long and slightly more expensive?
I did know they released a new one. Thanks for pointing that out. I looked into it. The main difference is that it also has AIS Automatic Identification System functionality. If you fishing in remote areas and your boat is the one to find you than the AIS is important. As the boat can know your exact location. This is important in man over board situations in cold water especially. If your boat is not setup for this it is probably not worth it. Other commercial boats might see your distress call but your mostly relying on the coast guard. If you are in a area with lots of commercial boats and little coast guard presence than it could be worth it. Like in the arctic sea. Lot of radios even handheld radios also have AIS functionality. One issue with the ACR 450 is that it is not self buoyant meaning it does not float on its own. It also connects to a smart phone but I am not quite sure what that entails.
@Captain Cody what you mean by saying "if youre boat is not set up for this?" For example I have inflatable that I use for ocean fishing
@@ia6980 If you have AIS on your chart-plotter like many commercial vessels are requred. Otherwise how will you know were the distress is coming from if a person on your boat goes overboard? I think the radio may read out the coordinates so that is a second way. But if I have never responded to a distress this way so I am not positive how it works.
Sent signal is in MHz.
Yeah that is correct.
Great, video
The Best one
Thank you very much for watching Cesar! In the video description is a link to an in-depth article I wrote about the best PLBs.
is this good for hiking too?
Yeah ACR PLBs will work for hiking in remote areas as well. Many hikers like having a Garmin device so they can send text messages in non-emergency situations. It is not a bad idea to have both types for hiking and boating. In the video description, I provide an article I wrote with all the different types of PLBs.
"Yeah, this thing, which isn't anything like these other things? It's better than those, and I can say that even though this is an unboxing video, and therefore I haven't actually even used it yet."
We have been using them for years. Also, I test it in the video. On commercial boats with more then 6 people EPIRBs are required by the coast guard. Tens of thousands of people have been rescued cause of this technology. My dad carries both the ACR PLB and Garmin in his life jacket. I just carry a PLB. All the devices mentioned serve the same purpose. I am pointing out which one I like best, in my opinion.
I guess I replied with my other email. Thanks for watching Liam!
Excellent video and info! Thank you for this
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!
Which one is useful, plb or vhf?
In the video description, I link to articles about the best PLB and EPIRBs. For emergencies, a PLB is great to have. For basic communications, a radio or satellite message is better. Thanks for watching Joey!
Captain Cody.....my name is Syed and i am from Malaysia. My question if i buy PLB and send the Beacon Registration with full information to US. Because i stay in Malaysia; so i need to re-register with Malaysia Marine Department or Malaysia Coast Guard ?
I found this on the ACR website. "The beacon must be registered in the
country of the owner’s residence. If the beacon is not programmed to that
country’s code and protocol, and the residence is outside of the USA, the beacon needs to be reprogrammed."
I think this means if you live in Malaysia you need to register it there if possible. If you live in the USA but are visiting Malaysia it should work while you are there. Most countries allow them to be used.
S.A.G_ ED you need register these device to APMM.
@@janjimancing ...thanks for your advice...very appreciate
S.A.G_ ED no problem, malaysia boat yard has these device for purchase.
Can a family member or a friend use my PLB?
Yeah, they can use it. You register it though so the ground station will call your emergency contacts though to verify if it is a real emergency. If it is pressed offshore it is likely they will investigate either way. Just let the contacts know who is using it and you should be good.
Is this only for boats or can it also be used for hikers?
Thanks for the question, it has almost complete global coverage on land and on water. I carry the ACR PLB when I am hunting in remote areas. The Garmin Inreach is also very popular for hikers.
Anything similar for hikers?
Yeah, you can carry a PLB and use it for emergencies on land as well. When hiking or hunting in very remote areas I typcially bring my ACR PLB. My dad carries both the ACR and a Garmin device. Garmin inReach style devices are nice for hiking as well. In the video description is an article I wrote with a review of all the different types of PLBs. Thanks for watching!
Can the PLB be useful is none marine applications?
Yeah, it is good for hiking in remote areas as well.
Can it be used in land? Or just of shore?
It can be used on both. It is commonly carried by hikers in remote areas. In the description, I provide a link to an article I wrote with more information. Thanks for watching!
Can these be used for hiking?
Yep, all of them can be used for hiking!
I think he's overselling it. Press the button and the calvary's on its way in 30 min, like Domino's Pizza? Sure unless the weather is bad - then it could take hours. Or unless the weather is really bad - then they might not be able to come at all. You can use it hiking? Where I hike, the forest rangers warn that it can take 1 or 2 days for a rescue party to reach you after hitting your PLB distress signal. And all of the above assumes that nobody else is hitting their PLB distress signal. There was an article recently about a search and rescue team in WY who can no longer respond to every PLB signal because so many people are getting themselves into trouble.
You are correct that it does depend on the situation. The beacon is registered and they call the emergency contacts to determine if it is a real emergency. If it is on the water the coast guard is good at responding quickly. In cold water people do not live long and this does save lots of people's lives. I wear this on a fanny pack when offshore on a boat. In some areas like you said the local emergency services might not be available to respond. In Alaska the Coast Guards folks I talked to said they are happy to respond to hiking or boating emergencies as that is their job. Also they said do not be afraid to hit the button if you are having a real emergency. However if you are just out of gas or something minor you should use your VHF radio or cell phone to call sea tow or call a friend for help.
How long does the battery last? Can the battery be replaced?
The battery life lasts more than 24 hours when in use. Use battery shelf life is certified for 5 years from the date of manufacture. I provide more details in the best PLB article I wrote which is in the video description. The ocean signal rescueMe PLB does have a 7-year self-life and is smaller. However, is does not float. I think the ACR PLB 425 view is the best all-around PLB for rescue purposes for boating.
Can the battery be replaced after the 5 years? And for what price?
@@cliftoncornelison8820 yes it's replaceable for 100+ USD. You get new seals too. They test it also. After 5 years better to buy new one as they will be much better. Probably be like 200 for new. So then look at it as 50 per year cost. You can't eat a nice meal out for 50 bucks. Skip a meal.
Great overview, thanks.
No problem, in the video description there is a link to an article I wrote detailing all types of PLBs. Thanks for watching Adam!
Thanks 👍🍺
Sure thing!
How do you replace the battery? The company discontinued battery service to general public.
I think it depends on the brand and model. Which one do you have? Some types you should still be able to send back as far as I know. Some EPIRB's batteries are user-replaceable. However, I think the PLBs do need to be sent back for replacement.
@@CaptainCody7 I don't have one yet. Looking into buying one. The green one acr? Said they discontinued the service.
@@kevinthomas5270 Yeah, I just checked the site and you can replace the battery on the PLB 400 and 425 for around $80. It is good for 5 years from the date of manufacture when you buy the unit. Typically we just buy new units every few years and keep the old ones as backups on the boat. I hope this helps. I also wrote an article with more info in the video description. Thanks for watching!
Hi does anybody knows if we have such PLB in watch or bracelet type?
None that I know of that have a built-in GPS. There are some that engine kill switches and text message capabilities. However, without GPS you are a small fish in a big sea in my opion. There are some like the Ocean Signal RescueMe that can be easily put in your pocket. I have an article with all the types in the video description. Thanks for watching!
do these things work international? im from the Philippines
I think they do work there but I am not positive how your local emergency officials respond. So I would contact your local Coast Guard and ask them.
@@CaptainCody7 thank you sir
its also good for back packers that thu hike
Yes indeed, thanks for watching!
There is one additional cost to the PLB. Battery replacement.
This is true!
5:49 That's not entirely correct. I'm in the market for a PLB right now for solo winter camping and you misconstrued the costs a bit. While it is correct that the ACR has no *monthly* costs, there is also no rescue insurance you can get for it that I've found, meaning you're on the hook for the entire cost of your rescue which can be life-cripplingly expensive. An Inreach device will significantly save you on rescue costs as you can pay like $30/year for up to 100,000 dollars worth of rescue insurance per year. And really, $11-20/mo is "expensive"? Your cell phone costs more than that per month. You're also standing on a huge aluminum fishing boat talking about "expensive". Come on, man....
Inreach devices are good as well. It is a good idea to have both a PLB and in InReach for text message communication when solo hiking and boating. The ACR uses all government networks and there is not a rescue fee if you need to be rescued for an emergency. In the description, I link to an article I wrote about all the best PLBs with more info. Thanks for watching!
I’ve never heard of anyone being charge for a rescue. One of my best friends is part of the Maricopa County, technical search and rescue team they perform rescues in the desert in the lakes all the time. There’s no charge. My ex-wife was rescued off of Camelback Mountain in Phoenix with a helicopter no charge. My brother was a Scottsdale police officer 20 years involved in any rescues no charge. I know I don’t know about other countries I can’t say, but in America there’s generally no charge to be rescued. That other stuff sounds like some kind of insurance scam. It’s like warranty coverage on your car. Just trying to get you to pay some monthly fee at a fear be in charge. Again that may be fine if you’re in other countries but in America, I wouldn’t worry about it. I’m a hiker in the Phoenix area and I carry a personal locator beacon. I wouldn’t even think twice about the cost of a rescue. On the contrary, though a Garmin in reach as a fraction of the power of the ACR brand, the ACR has five lots of power, which means you can get out if you’re in a deep canyon, or under a snow covered canopy or maybe you’ve got heavy weather above you. The Garmin units in this spot units will never get out there usually only 1/10 of 1 W. They’re also on a completely different privatized for profit satellite. Netwerk in the past they’ve not responded people of died because they have thought it was not an emergency. That can’t happen with the ACR Netwerk
Use an EPIRB for a boat.
Yeah, it is good to have both. Having a PLB in a live jacket you wear all the time is probably best, if you only have one device. You could be lost the sea but separated from your boat, fall overboard. Category one EPIRBs are good for cases where the boat sinks quickly.
Till you're not near the boat.
Next time try a slower shutter speed to get a better shot of the display
Yeah, that would have been good. I thought it might just have been the display on the go pro refreshing at the same rate as the display. I should have changed the settings and shutter speed like you suggested.
No option to recharge it?
Well you only use it in a real emergency.Then you can send it in to get the battery replaced.
The rubber strap can be clipped to the cradle hooks and used to secure the PLB to a life jacket. Watch this video for a demonstration. He shows how on another model style at the 30 second time mark th-cam.com/video/-KO0Wuo3sdI/w-d-xo.html
Interesting, thanks!