Is the Yaesu FT-891 the right ham radio for your POTA activations?

[@terry.stafford]

Thanks for the cheat sheet. It’s priceless.

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked it and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@placeholder-065]

It's clear that you've put much work and time in getting this video together. Crystal clear at all times, 4k camera no doubt. As to the spoken word, no belletrie just plain and to the point. Also unlike many, no making a fool of yourself trying to be funny on the thumbprint or afterwards. Excellent video. 73 es dx Gust ON6KE

[@K4FZG]

Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@thormusique]

Thank you so much for this excellent video! It's the best one on the FT-891 that I've seen. Brilliant, cheers!

[@K4FZG]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@AZREDFERN]

Love the video, and I think you talked me out of making a FT-991a Manpack for SOTA (because why not all the bands?). I never considered that mobile radios are built for… vehicles. I imagine more components are smothered in hot snot and epoxy resin to hold up to off roading. Probably another reason you rarely find an auto tuner for mobiles. A lot of floating metal plates and a big inductive coil. I’m heavily leaning on the FT-981 right now, since it’s not that much more than the G90, and significantly higher quality. I’ve only ever known how to use an IC-706mkII (to match my Canon 5DmkII) that’s been modernized with a RPi5 and a big screen built into a large case. Great POTA, but I’d be crazy to SOTA it. I don’t think I’ll miss the modern 7300 features, because I never knew them. As long as it’s just a radio that out radios the other radios, I can figure out the rest.

[@K4FZG]

The 891 is a rugged little radio that should work for you. I love mine for sure. I'm glad you liked the video and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@samstlm]

Great overview of the FT891. I'm a new "old ham". I have the FT 891 and use it for POTA. I enjoy it immensely...the radio and POTA! I also enjoyed your story about your Dad's call sign. Well done!

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@bkg1965]

Great idea with the inline meter. I bought one and makes my comfort level much higher :)

[@K4FZG]

I agree, but you would think since the voltage displays on start up that Yaesu would give you the ability to display it at any time. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! 73 K4FZG

[@hallen4094]

Good well presented and to the point. I really enjoy my 891 and belive it to be ideal for my POTA requirements. Found myself 'nodding' in agreement with pretty much all your points here. Thanks and 73's

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked the video and thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@aerozg]

I got my 891 two years ago and i agree with everything in your review. Even with some of these tradeoffs i still love the radio. I use it with my LDG Z100Plus tuner and my HyEndFed EFHW antenna. Also use it with my Diamond BB7V vertical. Running on my Zippy 8400mAh 13.2V LiFePo4 battery. I enjoyed this review video very much!

[@K4FZG]

Sounds like you have a good set up. Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@SteveWarner-e8z]

My thoughts exactly and I did the same thing. My 7300 for home and the 891 for portable use. I’m primarily a CW operator and the 891 is a killer CW rig. The ZIN and DNR are great additions to this little powerhouse 73

[@classicpicker1588]

Excellent videography and editing. Enjoyed watching. Subbed

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I think a key advantage of the FT-891 is that ABC keys are programmable. You can put your favorite function menu settings to those keys for easy access, like the Notch filter or voice keyer. This eliminates a lot of the 'menu dive' when using the radio.

[@K4FZG]

Hey Michael, I agree, the programable keys add a great deal of functionality to this radio!

[@davidbrennan5]

Initially, I found the rig a bit frustrating, but after 4-5 weeks and watching some videos on adjusting the settings, I've become much more comfortable with operating it.

[@giffjim55]

I echo your experience. I used a Yaesu FT-710 for POTA, but it is designed as a desktop. So, I bought an 891, and it works great for POTA. Yes, the menu is a drawback. Thanks for the cheat sheet.

[@Brent_N4BDW]

THANK YOU for the time put into that cheat-sheet!! 🤝 I love my 891, and KB9VBR has done an awesome job Elmering me when I’ve had questions. One thing I haven’t figured out though…when I POTA I’ll activate on 60m occasionally. Pressing the V/M button (I believe) will put you into the pre-programmed 60m channels. Though I use a whip & coil, I still use a small travel-tuner to fine tune, and the 60m channels do not let you put radio into CW or AM to tune up on, forcing me to whistle or ID over the air to tune up.

[@K4FZG]

Hey Brent, yeah that's a drawback and I don't have a fix to get around this other than what your doing. If I come across something, I'll certainly let you know. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@Chris_KS5KY]

Excellent presentation and coverage of the radio overall, thank you. I planned to get a 891 for mobile ops (and any things else that comes about) and this was a great video that helped me know I was making the correct decision. There are a lot of menu options but I think most of them are "set it and forget it" and this would work really well in any capacity without having to fiddle around with settings. 73, KS5KY

[@K4FZG]

Hey Chris, I think you'll like the FT-891 for mobile and portable ops, I know I do! Thanks for stopping by the channel and taking the time to leave a comment! 73

[@matteng2332]

God I hope so. I bought my FT 891 last month and my antenna tuner is coming in today so I’m hoping I can make some contacts. This will be the first time I fired this radio and tuner up super excited come on mail lady bring my tuner.

[@anthonygiancarli9089]

Hi @matteng. May I ask which antenna tuner you are purchasing?

[@matteng2332]

@@anthonygiancarli9089 I purchased the Yaesu FC-50 and it came with everything I needed. 73

[@MrBenEye]

Thank you so much for sharing your cheat sheet. I purchased the 891 a few months ago and I'm still getting use to it. The ease of use is great for portable! I switch from the 891 to the 991A fof HF. 73, KN6NDM

[@K4FZG]

Hey, you're welcome! Thanks for taking the time to comment, I appreciate it!

[@markviers998]

I bought one to replace my old Icom 706 in the mobile. I added the ATAS antenna and it makes a sweet setup for hunting POTA during lunch breaks at work. Nice cheat sheet, thanks.

[@K4FZG]

@markviers998 I've considered getting the ATAS antenna. It would be very nice for doing a quick activation. Glad you like the cheat sheet. I got mine laminated at the local print shop and keep it in the go bag. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!

[@robinhemmer5930]

I just recently bought this radio and love it! Even though I got my General back in 2011, I lived in an apartment and couldn't do HF (or so I thought at the time). I agree with the video that it is easy to learn. Them again this my first HF radio so I have nothing to compare it to. Thank you for this video. It helps me remember all the functionality of this radio.

[@bluesteelbass]

I have to comment... not on the info, not on the radio, not on the sound quality. The lighting of the radio is top notch! Clearly visible contrast of the blacks, and infinitesimally minimal shadows. Exceptionally done! Everything else was great too!

[@K4FZG]

Hey thanks, I shot with the Sony a7iii, edited with DaVinci Resolve and started with good lighting. The 3 key ingredients!

[@KeithS_WA6QXA]

Excellent review on the FT-891! For POTA/SOTA, considering the price & size going portable, with 100W, I’m convinced there isn’t a better radio. Menu system can be overwhelming at first, but to the most part, you adjust most settings once, then leave it, as you mentioned. Nice cheat sheet!

[@K4FZG]

Agree! Thanks for stopping by!

[@swhitem]

Outstanding vid. Been considering one of these for my first HF rig (planning to upgrade soon) and plan to use it mostly for POTA or similar applications. You weighed the pros and cons and explained the functions perfectly.

[@K4FZG]

Hey, glad you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@denisbrunette8378]

Hi Charles. VA3DCB here Denis Brunette from Northern Ontario Canada. Excellent you tube on explaining the ft891. I purchased one about 2 1/2 years ago for POTA but never even took it out of the box yet. Thank You so much for the cheat sheet. I also picked up the Buddistick Pro and the Buddipole Deluxe for Pota and the Explorer bag and accessories all at the Dayton Hamfest and never used them either. Health and time is one reason. But got to get out there soon. Thank You again for the video. By the way where did you get the side protectors on the side of the radio. 73 Denis. VA3DCB

[@danrugbyman]

Great video. Thanks! I really appreciate how you summed up the radios cons and the solutions to them. I think I'll pick up one of these

[@SA-hk8xj]

Just got my 891 and your video helps a lot !!! Thanks for all your info and especially the cheat sheet. Yaesu should hv posted something like that to begin with to easily guide the user. What side rails are those on the 891? I’m thinking of doing the same? Looking forward to more videos and info on this radio, and maybe making contact over the air one day. 73 👍

[@K4FZG]

Glad I could help! Good luck with the radio and 73 K4FZG

[@oldsoldier181]

Just found an open box one of these on Ebay from a good seller, for a hell of a price! I use the IC 705 for field ops-POTA, but do struggle sometimes with the limited wattage. Even with 10W, I often barely make it out. I use an EFHW 4010, which is a great antenna. Looking for something with more punch, I kept coming back to the Yaesu. the FT 991A was my first shack radio. Great radio-hated the interface. So I went to the Icom camp, and am happier with theirs. But, they dont make an affordable 100W portable HF rig. Which is what I want. So, ordered this one, and am waiting on the radio as we speak!

[@mikeramsey9747]

I've been wanting to get into POTA and not have to use my IC7300 so you have sold me on the FT891. Thank-you. This was a very good video.

[@Fraksional]

Very comfortable listening. Everything about this is good. Dang, I might even get another Yaesu ft-891! I had paid attention to several KZbinrs and had the 891 on my well considered list when a fellow ham in the club said he had a second one unused and still in the box. So, with stores located within 3 Interstate hours of driving distance (1?,) I jumped at the choice.

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for the kind words and for taking the time to stop by and comment!

[@JimLangilleVE1JBL]

What a great video. I have been waiting for a video to give the basics of the radio and if it is the one I want to buy for POTA. You have given me the answer. On order. Thanks very much and all the best from Nova Scotia.

[@kristawyatt1335]

Thanks for this video! I just purchased the 891 (received it today) to take with me when I go camping. First it will be Field Day and maybe a little POTA. But as it's been said many times, the manual that it comes with is a little confusing to those of us without several years of experience. So I enjoyed your walk through and when I go out to test it tomorrow, I'll feel more at ease of navigating a new rig.

[@JohnR_ytbe]

Thanks for the great video and even better cheat sheet!

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked them and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@alex_poltava_ua]

I am your fan from Ukraine. Thanks for video!

[@K4FZG]

Glad you like the channel and thanks for taking the time to stop by and leaving a comment!

[@marshred]

Started HF with an FT-891 when I got my General. Its a Great Radio and the POTA King! An FTdx10 is now my desktop radio, raking in the DX contacts!

[@K4FZG]

The FTDX10 is a great radio for sure! I think it would be my next radio, although I don't need more radios, hi hi. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! 73

[@stephanhersey1186]

I've had my 891 for a few years now and it is my go to portable rig including SOTA and POTA. I use a 15ah battery and have never needed more. Yes, why can't Yaesu put an ATU in this radio. I had a G90 for awhile and loved it' and it's tuner, but like you said, there's nothing like having 100 watts. At one POTA activation I got tired of calling CQ POTA with the G90 and brought out the 891 and started making contacts. That's what convinced me to sell the G90. Thanks for the video and I agree, the 891 is a great radio for portable or as a back-up at home. I just wish Yeasu would squeeze in an ATU. Steve, k7ofg

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for commenting! 73

[@larrypicard5969]

The lack of a built-in tuner is a consideration. Keep in mind that this is a 100W radio and not a 20W rig. It is amazingly compact for its power. A 100W-capable tuner requires a bit of space and could not be packed into a radio this small. While you could always add an outboard tuner, if it were built-in you would always have to lug a larger rig around even if you never used the tuner.

[@talloccyclist]

I have used an 891 on my WWFF park activation's for the past couple of years and I love it. Great receiver and I can hear the DX calling me while I activate. Couple it with the mAT-30 antenna tuner and you can load into any antenna that you might want to use. I love it for WWFF. 73 / 44 to all de W6LEN / Jess

[@davidnachbaur6805]

Thank you!!

[@K4FZG]

You're welcome!

[@shellmaker10]

Wow great video! I was thinking of picking one of these radios up after the first of the year. You addressed all of the questions/concerns I had. Thanks.

[@K4FZG]

Thanks! Glad I could be of help!

[@Тольяттинец-н6ъ]

I just love my Yeasu FT-891! I think it is very robust and forgiving of mistakes such as forgetting to connect an antenna. It would probably be forgiving not for long but is forgiving nonetheless at 5 Watts of power). Adjustable power down to 5 watts can also be useful for antenna tuning and if your antenna is way out of tune, using 5 watts while you're tuning your antenna is going to be easy on the transceiver finals.

[@AzPauly]

In the same camp...was considering the G90 but the lack of N.A. service and spotty reviews on eHam and others, had to go 891 with absolutely not regrets..as you mentioned 3yr warranty, proven design, serviceable if needed, solid build quality, superior filtering and sensitivity..outstanding little rig for the $$.. a bit more power hungry but decent batteries are cheap now a days...

[@K4FZG]

It certainly is a great little rig. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!

[@apollohernandez6149]

Good morning to all from New York. This video is very informative. Thank you for this information. Keep them coming.

[@richc8253]

Great video. I ordered this radio this morning and am looking forward to using it at POTA events instead of lugging the 991a around. Thanks for the cheat sheet too! 73

[@KC5TGTRadiosNMore]

Great video and thanks for the cheat sheet. I’ll put a copy in my portable kit. I love this radio for portable work and plan to buy another someday to install permanently in the vehicle.

[@K4FZG]

Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for stopping by!

[@scottselby6112]

I just got off of the phone with Ham Radio Outlet in Woodbridge to place the order for my 891. When I got back on the air, I was looking at the 7300, the 991A and the 891. My 69 year old eyes are getting too weak to read the screen on my 817NT and I think that the 891 will fit the bill better!

[@larrypicard5969]

Thanks for the excellent review. This is a great introduction even for those not planning to use the radio for portable ops. The cheat sheet is very helpful. I have used the 891 for portable ops and I agree with your comments. The biggest shortcoming in my opinion is the lack of an easy way to adjust power levels which requires a dive into the menu system. I think you can buy very cheap LCD volt meters to monitor supply voltage. I do not find the display scope to be useful. However, the formfactor limits the screen size to the point where even if there were a better scope function, it would still be difficult to use. In the end, this radio was designed for MOBILE use in a vehicle and it should viewed from that vantage point. However, it does work great in portable use.

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for the compliment and for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@KQ4PBL]

New Ham here. Great video. I've been looking at the 891 for its portability. I'm an over the road driver, and been intrigued on the hunter side of POTA. Been watching others videos from other users. By far your videos are to the point. 73

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for the kind words! The 891 is a great portable rig and as a driver you would have a blast both hunting and activating POTA. Hope to catch you on the air! 73 de K4FZG

[@KQ4PBL]

@@K4FZG 73 from KQ4PBL

[@dereknoll]

Great video! Thank you. I have been considering the FT-891 as my first HF radio.

[@K4FZG]

Glad you like the video! I think the FT-891 would make a fine first radio. Just be aware, radios are like potato chips, you can't have just one!

[@AzPauly]

It's a great rig, I actually think it "hears" better than my 7300 on my home qth antenna..just lacks the "eye candy" of the 7300 and onboard tuner, but that's easily dealt with if truly needed..

[@georgeetherege8347]

Excellent video. Quick run through the features important at a POTA activation and quick summary of how they are controlled. I have one also. It’s heavy for a “hike-out” rig but I don’t plan on hiking. Seems rugged with the added side rails. There’s a KZbin video that describes getting receive current down to about 0.8 amp. That’s not pocket-sized radio performance but a pocket-sized rig has its own set of annoyances.

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked the video and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@Bob-t1v]

Excellent video and the cheat sheet is great. Thank you for the work.

[@normnpat]

Great info for FT891. Have had mine for about 3 years, have used for POTA as well as setup for a 2nd station on the desk. The 891 has one of the best front ends i have seen. Printed up the cheat sheet. 73 Norm, KD9HAV

[@K4FZG]

Yeah, the more I use it the more I like it! Thanks for stopping by the channel and taking the time to comment. K4FZG 73

[@nicolasthorpe9385]

Thank you for the well produced and informative video. After watching it I decided to stop procrastinating and just went and bought one! Please note that the link to your cheat sheet doesn't work. Thanks again. Nick.

[@StealthGTI]

I programmed memory locations and use them to switch between bands, modes, and even frequently used frequencies for contest use. It works much faster than using the "BAND" button. From there, I change frequency with the main dial. As a result, the "V/M" button is the most common button that I press, with the goal being to return to memory mode so that I can switch bands. Since I'm 100% mobile and cannot see the top buttons very well, I have accidentally pressed the "V>M" button many times. Pressing it more than once messes up my stored info. DOH! I have blocked the first three top buttons with a shield to prevent frustrating accidents. Watching your video reminded me that I almost never press the "A/B" or "BAND" buttons, either. Perhaps it's time to update my block-outs. "V/M," "FAST," and the POWER/LOCK buttons are all I touch up there. HAHA! Keep up the good work. 73! -Scott, KE4WMF

[@K4FZG]

Yeah, that's a good idea! I'd thought about programing the different bands into memory slots, but I don't change bands that often on activations, but it would be faster, thanks for the suggestion and taking the time to comment!

[@StealthGTI]

@@K4FZG - Have a look at my recent MFJ-1924 video for a demonstration. I, too, don't change bands too frequently once I decide to spot and activate on a frequency. BUT - I often start my activations by hunting other parks. So, I sort the lists by frequency and work my way from 40m-10m. Take Care!

[@DonzLockz]

Thanks for the very thorough run through of the radio. 🍻🤠

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@kd8opi]

I think the 891 is a great choice. I think it is good not just for parks on the air, but for an inexpensive starter base station. Yes it lacks a tuner, but tuners are relatively cheap. You can get this radio for 700 bucks which is a deal. I will say that Elecraft makes a great product, they’ve been around for almost a quarter century, and if you want something, a little smaller, a little lighter, with an internal battery, an internal tuner, that’s capable of putting out 12 W barefoot, consider a KX2. One nice thing about parks on the air is that people are looking for you. I don’t think 100 W is essential. For example, I activated a park recently with a 5 W QRP radio (the flex 1500)and I had 600 QSOs. Even for hunting parks, I have won my 1000 Park award with just using a QRP rig. Still, if you want an all in one that’s cheap, reliable, and relatively tough, the 891 is tough to beat. It also can be used as a mobile rig. I don’t own an 891, I actually own an 817, a KX2, and a flex 1500. Even so, I would recommend the 891 to any starting ham who is on a budget. You can just do everything with it.

[@outnaboot]

Love my FT891, especially for POTA...love it

[@dandypoint]

Excellent video! I also got a FT-891 for POTA. I find I also use it a lot at home! My main rig is an Elecraft K3. In the summer I don’t spend much time inside the radio shack, but this summer I would set up the 891 on the screen porch and got a lot of operating time in! I agree the menu is not an issue at all. Most items are set and forget, except maybe the power. I almost always run 50 watts but sometimes do want to run more or less than that and it’s nice the menu remembers! I am mostly a CW op so I set the programable buttons a bit different than a SSB op. I have one as a bandwidth control as I sometimes want more or less selectivity to suit the situation. One of the menu issues (I hear people complain about the menu) is the terminology. Like I think they use Clarifier instead of RIT and there were a couple other terms that were foreign to me at first! I don’t even think the voltage meter is an issue. I do note it when I power up but it’s never been an issue. It’s a great rig! Not just for the price, it is just a great working little radio and I have had some of the best ever made over my 60 years as a ham!

[@K4FZG]

Thanks! The K3 is a great rig, I got to run one last field day. I appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@BobBroeking]

I am just going to wait until ICOM develops the 100W version of the 705 ...or another manufacturer does... I want to move forward not backwards! Love my 705; patiently waiting... manufacturers are not blind to the recent popularity of the FT-891! This videos will spur the manufacturers on!

[@K4FZG]

No telling what the future holds! I'd like to see a cross between the FT-891 and the IC-7300. A smaller package with a built in tuner and soundcard! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@BobBroeking]

Exactly…. Agree 100%… have to think the industry is working on it given the resurgence of amateur radio due in some part to mobile 100w radios being used in POTA…every time I see an operator outside with their big base station I think well that’s not exactly what the manufacturer or POTA had in mind…ha

[@fm71450]

Dear Mr.Barefoot Ham, thank you for an excellent look into use of the FT-891. My purchase of the FTM 6000 convinced me to go with a radio with a different control system - and I went with an IC-718. When I decide to get a more packable/hike-able setup, I will look further into the 891, due primarily to this video. Thanks. KQ4IXD

[@twobikesandadrone]

Great review! I've pretty much made up my mind to get an 891, since I plan to primarily use it for field ops like SOTA and POTA. Still trying to figure out antennas to bring along, since I'll usually be on one of my motorcycles, but I need to step it up since the weather is starting to get a little warmer all the time!!!

[@K4FZG]

Yeah, warmer weather is right around the corner. Think about a EFHW antenna. Great for SOTA?POTA and coils up pretty small. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@twobikesandadrone]

@@K4FZG I still have so much to learn about antennas, even though I've had plenty of time as a Tech/Gen ticket holder. Better late than never though! I am a little jealous that you have as many subscribers as I do.....in only 3 months 🤔😄 but I can see why....great content!

[@K4FZG]

@@twobikesandadrone Well, I have another channel that has some drone content you might enjoy as well as other stuff scattered about. Don't feel bad, it took me 16 years to get 2500 subscribers there! kzbin.info

[@twobikesandadrone]

@@K4FZG I will check it out. I have an Autel XSP but it’s pretty bulky to bring on the bikes, and the camera isn’t great anyway, since it’s a 7-year old drone. Thinking about getting another one, but it’s taking a back burner to the radio stuff for now. Sure does make for some good follow-me shots on the bikes though, so it won’t be too long before I go down that rabbit hole of figuring out what replacement drone to get.

[@jodyspencer433]

Great video, and presented well for a new guy looking to get into ham.

[@K4FZG]

Thanks, glad you like it!

[@MikePeace]

Thanks for sharing the FT-891 functionality. VK6ADA

[@JeffreyPadell]

On the waterfall, I agree once you have a frequency you don't need it, but when I first access the band I am going to work I use my cell phone to pull up a kiwiSDI receiver and look at their waterfall. Here in SE New England there are about 10-12 receivers that can be used as a waterfall.

[@donaldchittenden671]

Very nice. job I have two ft-891 they are great for SOTA and POTA also as a back up radio. I also use a Ft-897d . Thank you and 73 N2USM

[@K4FZG]

You got to love the 897, it's a classic! Thanks for commenting!

[@DaveW6OOD]

It’s got all the good tweak-able features for pulling out a hard to hear signals and has decent power-to-size specs. And, If you are activating POTA/SOTA, you don’t need the spectrum display to help search around on other freqs.

[@K4FZG]

I totally agree! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@ae0sr]

Great job making this video!

[@K4FZG]

Thank you!

[@stephenwheelock709]

Thanks Chuck, appreciate the cheat-sheet..73 Steve K4IM

[@mauriceaustin3442]

GREAT video. Explained with ease. Very understandable. I bought one of the first 891's many years ago. Got out of amateur radio for most of those years (life got in the way). Am just coming back into radio again. And I still find it a fairly easy radio to use. I take it with me all the time camping here in Montana running off a 100Ah battery with solar. Am I building a Go Box and intend to buy a second radio for it after the first of the year. New subscriber. Thank you for your time making this video

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked the video! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment! 73

[@dougkoudelka3089]

Just got my FT891 to avoid bringing my FT710 out into the parks or for vacations/trips. Nice, small and compact.

[@MrTommy001]

Exactly my plan. I have a 710 in my shack and I love it. I WAS going to buy a second one for POTA to avoid having to disconnect everything to go portable. I've watched a bunch of other videos and I'm now 99.9% sure I'm going to get an 891 for my POTA, mobile, and RV trips. Thanks Barefoot, for a very informative and to the point video.

[@raymondmartin6737]

I like mine very much with FC-50 tuner is very enjoyable. Actually, this set up costs about as much as the 7300., but as was said, the FT-891 is better as a portable with power, as I also have the FT-818ND, which while being low power also has the VHF/UHF for FM, CW/ SSB.😊

[@K4FZG]

Hey Raymond, yeah adding the FC-50 and a sound card puts you in the cost range of a IC-7300. If you want the tuner and a sound card for digital modes, making the choice becomes more difficult. Portability is a big factor with the FT-891. I own both radios and I'd hate to have to make a choice if I had to give one up. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment!

[@hcy0]

I use the FT-891 for most POTA activations. It's almost perfect, I just wish Yaesu could do a few simple firmware updates to make it even better, esp. constantly showing the battery voltage and not only during startup.

[@K4FZG]

I agree, not showing the battery voltage is one of my biggest complaints as well! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, it's greatly appreciated! 73

[@smnachman]

Im thinking of this radio. Im concerned and no internal sound card for ft8. I will use it with an atas antenna. (Im assuming it supports that) any work arounds for that?

[@K4FZG]

Yeah, you just use an external sound card. I like the signal link, it works very well for FT8. The Digirig is another option and the ATAS 120 is a great antenna choice for the FT 891. Good luck and have fun!

[@PARTner91]

Very well made video. Nice job. This radio really talks to me. Until I saw the menu system. Ugh. I’m thinking I’ll stick with the 7300 for my portable work. I can’t get past the counterintuitive menu!

[@K4FZG]

I understand and like I said in the video, the IC 7300 is a great radio. I love mine! Good luck with your decision and thanks for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment!

[@keithlloyd5280]

To me I still prefer the FT-857D. In what way does this FT-991 makes the FT-857 obsolete. Your loosing 2meter and 70cm and the permanent volage display on the the screen along with the colour of the 857D can be changed to suit what ever you like.. I am happy with my 857d been with me now 18 year both Base and Mobile opertion. Thank you for your video clear not boring informative so much so I am sticking with my FT-857D 73 Keith M0KLL.

[@mikesmith5139]

Thank you for a really useful overview. It really is an excellent transceiver. Appreciated. 73 Mike. M0MTJ

[@K4FZG]

Hey Mike, glad you liked it! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! 73 K4FZG

[@JonathanKayne]

Something I really don’t like about the 891 is that they gave 3 dedicated buttons to functions that I never use but decided to give a shared button to the one I use all the time. I don’t see why swapping between VFO and Memory each needed its own button. Storing the VFO to memory could have been made into a long press. I am changing bands and modes all the time so it bothers me that they didn’t each get a dedicated button like with the 817.

[@K4FZG]

I tend to agree. All the dedicated memory buttons seem to take up real estate that could be better utilized.

[@Tommy-K4BWN]

I have taken and got me a Apache 4800 case from Harbor Freight to put my FT-891 in it with two 12 volt 18 amp hour batteries I have the LDG 100 plus tuner but thinking about getting the Yeasu C50 antenna tuner sometime next year but it works out well right now. 73 ( K4BWN/KQ4AHR) Merry Christmas

[@K4FZG]

Hey Tommy, I've got an Apache 4800 as well. Great affordable cases for all kinds of gear! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! 73

[@sm6yec]

A truly great video!

[@SmokeSignalsRF]

Thank you for the video…very helpful!

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked it!

[@karlmadsen3179]

Can one of the programmable buttons be set to display the voltage when pressed, so at least the unit would not have to be turned off and on again? Nor would the purchase of an inline voltmeter be necessitated, if one of the buttons could be programmed to momentarily display the voltage.

[@GnarlsGnarlington]

Great video! Can you recommend a portable antenna and power supply (a motorcycle battery?)?

[@ToddDunford]

Great video!

[@pasanchandrasiri3498]

Hi, a new HAM here. Thank you for the very detailed video. BTW i have a question. I like both FT710 and FT891. i intended to use Radio with a external antenna tuner. In the FT-891, it is very difficult to change the power level to tune the antenna because of the complicated menu. Do you think the best solution for this is to set CW mode to 5W, and whenever we change the band, we can simply switch to CW for tuning and then change it back to SSB?" If that will work, can i know if i click on PTT does it transmit CW waves even without a Keyer ?

[@pasanchandrasiri3498]

Because the changing the Mode is easier than changing power level of FT 891

[@bigfranksworld]

Great vidio. Can you tell me if the cheat sheet is housed at a different site? I can't get that link to work.

[@imahamjim]

NicE job. While watching michael kb9vbr and Dave's video I built a 5 button device to send 5 preprogrammed voice and cw mags spent about 15 bucks to build it. And it works great

[@K4FZG]

Hey thanks, the device sounds interesting, I'll have to check it out!

[@msingerca]

Thanks for the video and cheat sheet. I look forward to going mobile again. N6MJS

[@ronpetroski7203]

I upgraded to an used 991. And will usey 891 with a wolf river coil and lifpo 4 battery and solar.

[@K4FZG]

FB, I use a chameleon 17' whip with a WRC Sporty Forty for 40 meters. Good combo. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment, 73

[@ronpetroski7203]

​@K4FZG up date. I'm on my second 891. I have one I'm my vehicle. One for pota and camping. And the 991 for home. Dam this lifestyle.

[@stuclark3046]

where do I find the cheat sheet?

[@richiec7602]

I was thinking about buying an FT-891. Great video on this radio. However, Your link to your cheat sheet is not working. Thanks

[@K4FZG]

Sorry about that! KZbin is becoming a pain in the A$$! I created a link to a pdf that should work. It's not clickable yet as youtube has a verification process that can take a few days before I can add clickable links. You will have to copy the link and paste it into your address bar to access it. chuckpetersphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Cheat-sheet-pdf.pdf I've had a YT channel for 16 years prior to this one and they just up and deleted access too it and there is no way to contact them to fix the problem. It seems the world is broken and all we can do is watch it crumble! Anyway, let me know if you have any other problems getting the cheat sheet and I'll do what I can to see you get a copy.

[@richiec7602]

@@K4FZG I was able to get it. Thanks

[@allyburg7145]

Love it

[@Philip-KA4KOE]

The primary drawback of this radio is that it draws around 1A on receive. If limited battery power is an issue, then this radio may not be for you.

[@K4FZG]

Yeah, it's a power hog! Thanks for stopping by!

[@PaulaBean]

1:21 What coast is that? Southern Texas near Corpus Christi?

[@ChuckPeters-hv4qq]

It's the North Carolina coast. Fort Fisher.

[@briankg8co318]

I am trying to download your cheat sheet. It looks like the link you have provided is incomplete. Can you put it in your comments

[@horton9623]

100 watts is the new qrp!

[@exploringearth3223]

it has a real time waterfall ?

[@briankg8co318]

Sorry about my last comment, should have went down a little futher in the comments. Thanks for the cheat sheet

[@K4FZG]

No problem, I'm just sorry folks are having a problem getting a copy. Thanks for stopping by!

[@bradhansen4312]

Thanks for making a great video, appreciate it. Any chance you'd be able to email the cheat sheet you made? I had some trouble downloading/unzipping the file. I drive heavy equipment for a living and am not a computer wizard. 73 Brad W9BLH

[@K4FZG]

Hey Brad, send your email address to [e-mail] and I'll email you the cheat sheet

[@kg5nub]

I have been eyeing this radio for quite some time, i got the ft857d and it sounds like crap on hf i been told but still sounds on repeaters, this rig would be some kinda nice

[@K4FZG]

There are a lot of good radios out there right now. The 891 is a great little package especially for portable operations. For a base station, I love my IC 7300 and the FTDX10 would be a great choice as well. Radio manufactures are sure making it hard to decide what rig to get! Thanks for stopping by and commenting and good luck on that next radio!

[@kg5nub]

@@K4FZG i got the ft991A and the ftdx10 i use for pota, still eyeing this one though

[@K4FZG]

@@kg5nub You can never have too many radios!

[@RadiofieldOperator]

If ur looking for a pota rig use a tx500,with a wire antenna 10W and a wire in a tree.

[@Zach-K7FC]

While not perfect, the 891 is as close to perfect for POTA that I have seen.

[@K4FZG]

It's certainly a great little rig! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! 73

[@alvarogaitan2529]

Great choice this radio is good 73 from kb2uew

[@K4FZG]

Thanks for stopping by, 73

[@MrRadiorobot]

....let's follow the cheat sheet link..oops!!! Nothing there!!!!

[@K4FZG]

The link is live for me. You might want to try it again and wait for it to load. It was a little slow.

[@BastHoen]

Very good video! Tnx! 73 PA5BAS

[@K4FZG]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to comment!