Yaesu FT-897D - Is It Still A Great Portable Transceiver?

[@GroverCleveland43]

After being without a FT-897 for several years, I finally reacquired one. I am so pleased. This is a radio like no other for home or portable. I added the AT-897Plus tuner and a narrow cw filter to make it even better. This one is a keeper!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your opinion on the 897. It is such a useful, versatile radio, that I can't bear to part with mine.

[@OH8STN]

Well done! 897 has a lithium-ion mod that has the same capacity as that slab, at a fraction of the weight.Great video, excellent points. Thanks for sharing.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Julian! I need to look into that Li-ion mod. I hope that everyone who reads this comment checks out your terrific KZbin channel.

[@BryanWicks]

Thanks to videos like yours and @TheTechPrepper, I am now actively looking for the FT-897D. I already have the FT-857D, and it will *not* be leaving my arsenal of gear anytime soon. The FT-991A and FT-DX10 are future base station purchases that I want to make for my ham shack, but when it comes to emergency communications, POTA activations, and general mobile operations, my priority right now is to permanently secure a good FT-897D and train with it as if someone's life depended on it. Because one day, it may well be the case.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I hope you find one soon! I admire your passion.

[@BryanWicks]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir UPDATE: I have found a good FT-897D , and will have it up and running this time next week! So excited!!

[@tedberg811]

Tracy, excellent video particularly with regard to your points about power consumption making the 897D a field champ. I use mine on my boat when cruising the San Juan Islands and north. I was considering putting a larger "base" rig on board until your video and I realize now that when I'm at anchor and using the boat house batteries, minimizing my power consumption is absolutely critical. By the way, I've had great contacts while being maritime mobile, not the least of which was making contact with a co-pilot on an Airbus 320 heading to St. Louis one evening. Apparently all Airbuses come with a built-in Rockwell Colling HF transceiver and I got a good report from him using the 897. Sticking with her now and thanks for your support. Ted (W6TYZ)

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Ted, thank you for your comment! Great case study you have presented. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@tx2sturgis]

I enjoy my 897D but it succumbed to the dreaded 'filter pandemic'...however it is repaired now and doing a great job again!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Glad to hear your 897D is back from the dead. Thank you for your comment!

[@slartybardfarst52]

So did I, and I had a squelch fault and eventually found the culprit, a missing SMD capacitor!

[@gatesmw50]

Bought one of these just before they were discontinued. Not getting rid of it any time soon. Does the job as my alternate/backup radio.

[@hobiekanobie4982]

hey all. i have the 897D, new to ham ,still learning. not licensed as yet, but working on it. VK2---. i am trying to find, without much luck ,the AT897 to suit. i know this is an old utube, but hey its worth a shot. anyways, loved this vid as it helped me understand more about this rig.. glad i got this one instead of the newer versions of any brand. as a Prepper/Survivalist downunder, it will be my got to shtf...

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you and good luck finding that AT897.

[@slartybardfarst52]

I find the RF gain is the best way to tackle any noisy receiver and does wonders on the 897. What I will say about the 897 is that even without the extra filter it's a great CW machine.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi, thank you for watching! Your note about the use of the RF Gain control on the 897 is a good one. I made the same point in regard to the FT-817 on my "How to Optimize the FT-817 for Contesting" video. Of course, the same general rule applies to any rig with an RF Gain control. Thank you for your comment about using the 897 without a filter on CW. As an SSB only op, I didn't realize that.

[@slartybardfarst52]

BTW i use my 897D on 70cm SSB and has WAY less drift than my IC-706 Mk2g. It also does a great job when hooked up to my 23cm transverter as it gives the option of '1296mhz' showing instead of '146mhz' on the display now that it's configured.

[@davidwilliamson2115]

Well done on a well thought out, well constructed and well presented review. i own two of these fantastic FT 897d i have a headset attached and a dedicated Morse streight ke for the rig. please continue making these good commentries ZS1 ADG

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, David! One day, I'd like to add a second FT-897D to my shack as you have done.

[@barrykery1175]

What a GREAT review of the 897. Well made video and you hit the mark on all of your comments. When I first saw the 897 at Dayton, I thought it had kind of a military quality look. I have to say, for a 100 watt. multi band portable radio, I have not seen anything that has come close to the 897. I have the "D" model and love it for high power portable. For QRP portable I use either Elecraft KX2 or KX3. I have other portable radios, but my 897D has found a permanent home. KU3X

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Barry! After more than 25 years as a licensed amateur and experience with a lot of rigs, I've come to the conclusion the 897 is my all-time favourite 100W transceiver.

[@CliffFoxKU4GW]

Great video Tracy! I recently got an FT-897D and love the thing although it does have a lot of menus, but if you use it regularly you get so you memorize the most often used menus like the mic gain and transmit power level menus. I use mine as a backup for my FT-1000MP Mark V, but mostly for JS8Call, Feld Hell, and PSK31 digital modes. The FT-897D has a cooling fan mounted directly in front of each final transistor and those fans being mounted as they are make it an ideal rig for digital mode operation. Even if I get a bit long-winded on a digital transmission it still runs as cool as can be! It runs much cooler than my FT-1000MP Mark V when using digital modes! I highly recommend the rig, not only for portable use, but very much so for digital mode operating due to its excellent cooling system. Very 73 de Cliff, KU4GW

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Not being a digital operator myself, I was completely oblivious to this feature Cliff. Thank you for sharing your wisdom! 73 from Tracy VE3TWM.

[@peterjones3245]

Very nice thank you. I think it is worth pointing out that battery terminal voltage can be quite a poor indicator of battery condition in terms of potential current delivery.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Interesting point, thank you for raising it.

[@shipsahoy1793]

Spot on.. More hams should pay closer attention to the details, and our available products available would stay the best they can be. Btw, compromises will always exist. Trade-offs always need to be made, which is why application specific products should be a given. One size fits all rarely works. Cheers!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment!

[@bobrademaker6842]

Very fine overview. I purchased an FT-897D on the used market in 2016 and have used it both in the shack and for portable operations. I still count it as one of the finest radios in my shack. I have really appreciated your videos on the FT-897 and the FT-817. Well done.

[@KU9L]

I think I would still buy an FT-897D if I ran across one in good condition For POTA I see it as a great choice. Since I have no HF rig now, I won't miss the waterfalls, lol. 73, Dave, KU9L

[@larrybushman1]

Great radio. Would not part with mine. Larry Uk RAYNET

[@KenMac-ui2vb]

Same here. I've had mine since 03. Great, great radio.

[@mk1tina]

absolutely right. Their are no sensible replacement radios on the market for the ft897 - 857 - 817. BTW noisy receive??. Not when portable my friend. 73 2e0vov

[@ke7avvdon136]

Great review! This was the first radio I fell in love with. I ended up with a TS-2000 as our first base radio, but later sold it to downsize to the FT-817ND and a couple of FT-60R and accessories. I'm still interested in this radio since we were attracted to the portability of ham radio. We really like the looks of the FT-991A, but you made some great points in your comparison. I think we're gonna have to track down a FT-897 for our new QTH. Thanks! 73

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Don! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@MWterritory]

I just recently bought a Yaesu FT-897D at a hamfest. I have been searching for a good video on how to use it since I am new to ham radio but not having much luck. I seem to have better luck comprehending watching a video than reading the manual for some reason. If you know any places with good infomation on this radio that would be appreciated. Thanks for your video KE0QBN.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi, thank you for your question. I don't know of any instructional videos for the 897/897D. The best resource I can think of is is the FT-897 Yahoo group. There are a number of knowledgeable, helpful people there who can help you get up to speed.

[@bradfordwilliams9760]

The FT-991 is a nice rig, with lots of bells and whistles, but it is not a replacement for the FT-897 as a field radio. I have the FC-30 attached to my rig as well. It is much maligned as a tuner, but it fits very nicely to the FT-897, as shown in the video, and makes it very convenient to pick up and go to the field.

[@JonathanSawyerGB]

One thing you failed to mention is that the FT-897 will only produce 20W when on internal batteries.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for bringing that up, Jonathan. It's good information.

[@JonathanSawyerGB]

Outdoors On The Air you're welcome

[@smallenginedude71]

more than enough for most applications, i havent run more than 5 watts in about a year

[@alanb76]

If you route power from the internal batteries to the rear 12V jack the radio will not limit the power to 20W. The batteries need to handle the full power of course, however this is not difficult with Lithium types.

[@havevanmusttravel]

Just bought my 2nd FT-897D because of all the pros you mentioned. I love the FT-897D! As you mentioned, these radios are built to be portable and are power conscious, yet make a fun base. I am in NO hurry to buy an FT-991A.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comments, much appreciated.

[@ae4xo]

I love my 897 original model. I had to replace the caps. But I would never take the 991 out into the woods. Its way to expensive to do that. I got my 897 for $450

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment and congratulations on that great deal!

[@MirlitronOne]

Very good review and all valid points. My (second hand) FT-897D is my base station rig and they'll prise it from my cold, dead hands. My local club has an FT-1000 MkV Field which is four times bigger and heavier and doesn't do much that the 897 can't.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the comment! They'll have just as tough a time with my 897 after I'm gone.

[@phils2180]

Hi Tracy Great videos! I share your enthusiasm for the 897. I acquired one just after they were released and really liked it but eventually sold it and regretted it ever since. I have a couple of much newer ‘fancy’ radios but I’ve been looking for a good used 897D for field use for a while now and finally found one today at a rally. I’m coming up for retirement in the New Year and really looking forward to some outdoor Hamming, so much more enjoyable than sitting behind a desk in the ‘shack’! Keep the videos coming!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Phil! Enjoy that 897D and your upcoming retirement.

[@rumsin300]

Very good i nformation n the video! Thank you,

[@howard7383]

I bought one of these when I first passed my m6 licence, I have a yeasu 991 now and still use the 897d for mobile and it is a great radio.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment!

[@willian.direction6740]

Wish i did not swap my 897 for a 857 which is useless when trying to find low level qrp stations.

[@jeffirwin-kj6vap481]

Great video Tracy! It is 2020, do you still feel the same way about the FT-897D? When I first got licensed I really wanted a new 897D but the price kept me away so I got a new FT-817ND as my first HF rig. I have just sold that rig and was looking to replace it with an FT-991A until I came across this video; now I am really thinking about picking up a used 897D instead. I like to operate from my house and from my car and this would be my only HF rig (for Portable and Base). The only other rig I have is a VX-7R which I also bought new. I am a bit nervous about buying a used rig (getting one that has blown finals) and that I might be missing out on some tech the newer rig has. On the plus side, I live 15 minutes from the Yaesu USA HQ and could take it there to get it fixed if needed. Any advice you could give would be appreciated! 73! KJ6VAP

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Jeff, thank you for your comment! I still feel the same way about the 897 as a portable rig. As far as having it as your only rig for base/mobile/portable, that would depend upon how good a price you can get it for on the used market and what kind of battery you have for portable ops. Here is what I mean: Look at the new price of an Icom 7300 and Yaesu FT-991A (if 2m and 440 are important to you). You shouldn't pay more than about 2/3rds that price for a used 897 (even though the 897 has VHF-UHF). If you have a battery with enough Ah's to run the 7300 or 991A for the amount of time you'll spend in the field, one of those two would be your #1 pick due to all the modern technology and (especially in my estimation) QRM fighting features to combat the QRM found in modern ham shacks. If you really need the rig to use battery power sparingly, go with the 897. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@gerardogarcia6201]

Sir, Please excuse my ignorance , but I am planning to purchase a used Yaesu FT-897D as my first HAM radio (I'm getting into the hobby). Where did you get the item that is on the left hand side of the radio? Is that an external battery or charger? Your help is appreciated.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Gerardo, thank you for watching my video. The item bolted to the side of the FT-897 is not a battery or charger, it is the Yaesu FC-30 automatic tuner. The 897 has provision for up to 2 internal 4.5 amp hour battery packs. These are quite costly and have to be carefully maintained or they will fail to hold a charge and thus lose their effectiveness. For these reasons I prefer to use external SLA batteries with the rig when operating portable.

[@alanb76]

Look for the LDG897 tuner that fits in the same place. Wider range tuning. External or internal LiFePO4 batteries such as Bioenno power are a good solution. If you want more than 20 watts bring the battery leads out and plug into the rear connector, then full power will be available.

[@CapeCodCNC]

I just bought one 2 days ago! Can't wait until it gets here. This will fit the bill for portable use unlike my 991A. Going to use aftermarket batteries and a home brew charger...

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Good luck, I think you're going to have a lot of fun with that rig.

[@adamlabonte956]

Built in power supply and optional antenna tuner made it a grab and go proposition. Like an idiot, I sold mine. Sellers remorse, what are you going to do? 73, Adam, K5OCS

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Get another one, of course :)

[@amateurtech736]

It's 2018 and I'm still running my 897d and it's absolutely brilliant, I don't find the noisy reciever too annoying and I even use it as a base station

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for throwing in your thoughts on this fine rig!

[@ThePauperPrepper]

Excellent video. You just earned a subscriber. I have to ask. Do you have a script or is this straight from your head? Lol Ron. KB3VEW

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! The answer to your question is both. I actually spend hours preparing scripts for most of the videos I make, then ad-lib at points.

[@mark1161]

Just worked Rwanda and Australia (long path), today, with my Buddipole using the FT897D. It consistently performs. I use the Bioenno LIthium 30ah battery. Five hours on the air, with the FT897D, and battery recharges full in one hour!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Nice setup and great contacts!

[@tears4fears1000]

Bought my Ft897d new almost 6 years ago, ok so the screen isn't huge & some people hate radios which use the menu to set them up but this radio ticked almost all the boxes for me when deciding on parting with my cash.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing that. Feedback like yours will help people make their own decisions.

[@9999plato]

The ft 891 draws much less than 2amps on receive. I know that is what Yeasu claims but my digital voltmeter says otherwise. Since you are talking about field units the 891 would be a better choice for a comparison. A voltmeter is tiny and so easy to connect via Anderson fittings. My 847 matches the 897s capabilities for transmit and receive. Why would I want uhf/ vhf in the field when it's integrated in my car?

[@CAL6465]

Nice review. I also chose a used unit too. I like its rugged features. I have 2 original batteries that need to be replaced. I'll work it as a base or mobile. I can use a portable small generator when I have a truck near by. Good choice. Your comment on the menus & sub menus is true. You just have to learn their proper steps to access them.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comments! Hope you have lots of fun with your 897.

[@arkbane1]

Here's a little tip for those using the side mounted antenna tuner, either the one from Yaesu or LDG. If you want to mount the radio using Yaesu's mounting kit, you will not be able to mount the tuner using the Yaesu tuner mounting kit. And that kit doesn't work with the LDG tuner anyway. The solution is to use standoffs. I obtained eight aluminum standoffs, each about 1/4 inch thick by 3/8 inch wide, and four longer metric machine screws that are needed to compensate for the extra distance between the tuner and radio housing. These provide plenty of strength and stability for the tuner case and room to install the radio mounting kit screws and brackets. The overall width of the assembled unit is slightly greater but it is worth it. The radio still fits into the Pelican case that I use for field use when the radio is not mounted in my travel trailer that serves as my shack and mobile emergency command post.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the tip, Scott!

[@JasonAirInc]

Thanks for this. I bought a very nice used 897D because of this video. Very truthful....laymans terms, and good photography. I would suggest mitigating the wind noise in the future though. Thanks again, and thumbs up.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! Agreed on the wind noise...I now use a "dead cat" when shooting video.

[@markmoreno7295]

I am in the market. Everything you mentioned the tradeoffs in low power consumption for static, the rugged design, the weight, all suits me. I was wondering about antenna options, and I have also heard about some sort of cage for the so called "man packs" although I am not sure what they are for if not for protection.

[@cirognagnarella5433]

Hi,I am Ciro,ik6aiz. Please,what can you tell me about the noisy receiver and a possible solution.?Thank you very much!73

[@thestingyham1188]

Meh... the power consumption issue only matters if you use an old battery like that. With Lifepo4 batteries, which are much lighter, more powerful, and long-lasting, the 891 is still the better buy. And RX is actually about 1 amp on RX , with the 891. The manual is wrong. Several internet tests will show this. Now the voltage issue? Not having the voltage does suck, but you can turn off the 891 and back on again to see it. You know it's time to replace the battery with the 891, when you start losing your AGC info on the read-out.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

You forgot one import specification of the LifePO batteries...they are significantly more expensive. And the 897 will run considerably longer than the 891 on those same batteries due to its still lower power draw on receive. I don't like the idea of knowing it's time to power off the rig when the display starts going funky, that sounds like courting trouble to me. The microcircuits in modern rigs don't take kindly to under-powered conditions. To each their own.

[@adamny5e591]

Tracy- I love my 897D and just acquired a NIB FC-30 tuner! I am struggling with the figuring out how to attach it to the radio. Need some help here 😒

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

HI Adam, congrats! Check out page 67 of the Owner's manual for installation instructions of the FC-30.

[@adamny5e591]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir I’ve discovered the issue! Although the tapped holes all line up, there is a small, specialty 3 piece bracket set that was not included in the “as new in the box” delivery. I will stay at it. Thanks for the quick reply and the great productions.

[@NSNorfolk]

Great video. I just found I had one packed away in a protective, humidity proof case. Its like brand new.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Just like Christmas! Enjoy the rig and let me know how it goes.

[@billloveless6869]

Thanks for the info. You touched on the most important points a person new to ham radio must consider. I am in the process of reevaluating my commo needs. I am looking at something for a Harvey or worse situation.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

You're welcome Bill, and thank you for your comment. Hopefully you never have to face that situation.

[@powellresident6447]

I couldn’t agree more! I’ve had my FT-897 since they came out in the late 1990’s, with the Yaesu antenna tuner and the bolt on AC power supply, and CW filter. I’ve used all bands except 160 and 6 meters, on SSB, CW and RTTY. You can’t find a more versatile radio for home, remote and portable service, I have a custom battery unit in a water tight carry case to accompany this unit for remote/portable use, a push-up fiberglass pole with a modified chalk line cased wire antenna with matching balun. You don’t find many current radios with this full coverage. One feature I used frequently was the adjustable output power. I later purchased an accompanying FT-817 for truly portable/mobile use. Recently I struggled with the decision to locate a FT-857 to round out the collection! Instead, I located a used FT-991A, still adjusting to the additional bells and whistles, but it is a power hog! I customized a emergency transport case and the battery unit will power the 991A, but with significantly less air time available. But, the one reason I stayed with this additional radio was the 160 to 440 coverage, one of the few current radios with full coverage. I’m still a die-hard old tube radio guy too, loyal to my 50+ year old Collins KWM-2A and the 30-L1 amp. I use a Heathkit SB-230 amp to boost the Yaesu line when power is needed. In my opinion, the FT-897 has lasted nearly as long now as my Collins, passing 25+ years residing in my shack, you don’t find many solid state rigs around on the market now with that longevity of production. They had a true icon of a fully versatile transceiver during its life. Both my sons are also amateur operators, one now also an extra class, his rig is the FT-897D model. Thank you for your review of the 897!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your very informative comment! Long live the 897.

[@WJ6FRadio]

Great video! I had debated between this and the FT-857D. While I did end up getting the FT-857D I would like to pick up an FT-897D at some point.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! I hope others who read this comment check out your KZbin channel, you've posted some interesting stuff.

[@carl9154]

Thank you for the info, have purchased an ft897 today from eBay after watching your video and following you're channel. Keep up the good work 👍 Carl m3kum

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you and have fun with that 897, Carl!

[@millzee]

Every time I ponder the thought of selling my 897 , I talk myself out of it.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Me too.

[@WR3ND]

I have a 991 and 818, but I'd like one of these classic rigs eventually too.

[@mikecrockford6500]

Hey there, just stumbled across your channel and it's right up my street ! I have the 897 and would never part with it, its rugged reliable and I've talked all over the world on it whilst portable. I have taken it to remote Scotland on several occasions and worked the world by just stringing a G5RV up into the trees on the shores of Loch Voil. I do have the 991 also but if I only had one radio on a desert island it would be the 897 every time. 73 Mike M0VOZ

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great stuff, thank you for sharing your experience Mike! 73 from Tracy VE3TWM.

[@rcas350pilot8]

Had one back in 2003, bought it new from Amateur Electronic Supply, now out of business. Had a blast with it, worked the world from my car with hamstick antennas. Used it a lot on 2 meters, SSB and FM. Cool looking radio too, everyone said it looked like something made for the government or military. Sorry I sold it. Been out of the hobby for many years and now just getting back in. My buddy in Colorado found a mint Yaesu Ft1000d for me and I am going down there to pick it up soon. Not selling anything anymore, just will buy more stuff when I want it. Been listening to the bands on the SDR receivers online and can't believe all the activity. If the hobby is dead as some claim why are there wall to wall signals on 80 and 40 at night. Even heard a bunch of guys yaking on 160. 73 Pete WB4CGA

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@satveerc]

DX Engineering says the following about the FC-30 auto tuner. Has this limited you or anyone else in using certain antennae? “On the HF and 50 MHz bands the impedance matching range is from 16.5Ù to 150Ù (up to 3:1 SWR). Accordingly, the FC-30 should not be expected to match "long wire" type antennas unless you have taken specific design steps to ensure that the impedance presented to the FC-30 is within these specifications.”

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Think of the FC-30 as being able to resolve an SWR up to 3:1. For my purposes, that's good enough and has not limited me.

[@hikingfish3]

Great review! Can you do digital with this rig (JS8Call and Winlink) with such a radio (possibiliy requiring some extra hardware, such as a digirig or such)?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! Yes, you can do digital with an FT-897. Check out the Tech Prepper's channel, pretty sure he's got info on doing that.

[@richardallankellogg]

Say you go out for 4hrs, 2 hrs listening, 2 hrs engaged in conversation, transmitting 1/2 the the engaged time (1 hr tx total). That is 3 hrs Rx at 1 amp (3 ah) and 1Hrs tx at 23 amp (23 ah), or 26 ah total capacity needed. Switching to a 2 amp receiver would only require an additional 3ah (10% additional battery) so I don’t buy your main point. However, I agree it is a good radio, and much lighter. Which is important if you are carrying in in a backpack.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment!

[@donalfinn4205]

Thank you. I’m seriously thinking of getting an 897 for portable use and a 991A for base. The 897 is a fantastic looking rig. I would be interested in being shown how to operate it though. Subbed.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! 3 and a half years later and I still love my 897.

[@ZL1CVD]

Have a look at the Collins designed PRC-515 (RU-20). Sure its an old rig now but It covers all HF bands, has built in tuner way better than FC30 & draws 60mA on receive! 20W TX same as 897 on battery (and yes I know you can do 100W with 897). With is super low RX current, you get over 10x the RX battery life compared with the 897/857. It even blows away the 817 which I measured at 450mA RX.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the pointer. That's a very interesting rig, especially 60 ma on receive!

[@orlandomonaco3475]

Great video and my FT897D will be coming this week. Can you inform me what the attached speaker make and model is? Much appreciated and 73!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Orlando, have fun with your FT-897D! The attachment that looks like a speaker is actually the matching Yaesu FC-30 automatic antenna tuner. You'll read some negative reviews about this tuner but it works well for what I ask it to do. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@VE7GGH]

Great video, I was gifted this station when I got my license, nice to hear the feedback on the noisy receiver, thought it was my location, Its helping me get some impressive contacts, and I like it.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have fun with the 897!

[@kayllusher1605]

Question I just bought one myself it's not the D model it's just the 897 when they delivered it they didn't have a mic when you plug it in all it has a static I thought maybe I could hear something without a mic hook to it I hear nothing but static is that normal

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

You don't need to have the mic plugged in to hear the receiver's audio. The audio should be the same whether the mic is plugged in or not. Good luck with your new rig.

[@joshuayantis1763]

Question. I have a yaesu FT-897 and just got the bolt on antenna tuner just like the one in this video. How do I get the radio to tune with the tuner. The radio manual says to go to menu option number 85. On my radio 85 isn't an option. It's not there. How do I use the tuner in this situation?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I apologize for the delay in response. Go into the menu and turn on Menu item 1 (EXT MENU). This will activate all menu numbers, in particular the high numbered one. You'll now have access to 85. Why they didn't just ship the rig with all menu items available is a mystery to me.

[@robduncan599]

Still looks good, my pick is icom ic 703 my 703 will work ok at 10 volt.The points you make is very good. Tks for FAB video

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Rob. Like you, I 'm also a fan of the Icom 703.

[@someperson774]

I only ever operate portable and will never part with my 897 for all the reasons you mentioned. Excellent professional grade review, carefully scripted, concise, perfectly executed and with great audio even in the wind! N1OB

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the kind words, I really appreciate them. I feel the same way about my 897. Had one, sold it and now have another. This one's here to stay. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@stocksj]

I bought a FT-857d instead of this model as,it looked like it was going to be discontinued about 6 years ago. Still a great working radio.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Glad it's working out for you! Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@davenelson413]

Thankyou, still have my 897D :)

[@modeltrainsahoy-hoy6129]

A terrific "all-in-one" HF/VHF/UHF radio. Show me a radio with more efficient size that has a optional integral "plug the in wall" (YAESU FP-30B INTERNAL POWER SUPPLY) to power a 100 watt rf output radio, and a matching tuner in one sleek form factor! Sure, they make smaller radios, but add the external power supply and a tuner with 100 watts out, you can not beat the package size and portable elegance of the FT-897. As for the noise, it is very manageable using the rf-gain and the dsp features. The newer versions also came with the TCXO which is great for digital work. With the heavy duty handle, OEM integral power supply and tuner it is the perfect GO radio for plug-in portable operation.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

That's a great summary, well done! I need to snag one of those internal power supplies for my 897.

[@tropenband]

Excellent Video, I am about to buy a pre-owned device. Great decision help!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you!

[@Mr_Meowingtons]

I myself can care less about the UHF/VHF as i only run HF/6m when camping but I do Wish they still make radios like this.. Even radios like the Kenwood TS-50 that where discontinued stinks but every one is looking for all the high tech not saying it is bad but put it where i cant see it.. i want a rugged radio that is small enough to put in a back pack and get banged around and push 100w if i feel like it.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Mike!

[@1000000volts]

Hi m8 , I know this is a old vid , hope you are well , I have the same radio and a ldg at 897plus autotuner , what autotuner are you using as it looks like it was made for the radio unlike my ldg at897 plus tuner its just a metal box on the side and annoyingly slightly larger than the radio.. . Thanks.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi! The tuner attached to the side of my 897 is the matching Yaesu FC-30. Unlike the LDG AT-897, the FC-30 will only match up to a 3:1 SWR, but that's good enough for my needs.

[@1000000volts]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Thanks

[@claudeintheshack]

Thanks for the great review/overview Tracy. I use an FT-818 daily and I wonder if the receiver is the same or better on the FT-897D compared with the FT-817/818 rigs? Will the DSP make a noticeable difference in receive compared to my non DSP FT-818? I've wanted an FT-897D for awhile but the cost of used rigs has been right up there with the cost of new radios lately so I'm still tempted to pick up something new like a 891.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment and question! I find the receiver on the 817/818 to be very similar to the one in the 897. I seldom use the DSP in my 897 as I only use it in the field where DSP noise reduction is not an issue due to higher ambient noise levels (birds, wind, traffic, etc.). If using the rig in a typical modern home with QRM generating devices, you might want to go with the 891 as it will provide a more pleasant listening experience.

[@claudeintheshack]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Thanks for your reply Tracy, I appreciate your input. There's a lot to like about the 897 and it might be just fine for what I do. The 891 does seem like a bargain for what it does though so maybe I'll pick one of those up first.

[@Bigrockets101]

Consumes much less power than its replacement. This is relevant if you operate on batteries or solar. Its rugged has excellent performance and you can get a good one for 600 dollars.

[@trig6712]

Does Me Fine Business use it and the FT817 Mainly on CW GREAT RADIOS Trig

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great to hear from you, Trig!

[@garys.7846]

This past year, what started out to be a search for a 2m/70cm rig (as I didn't have a rig with CTCSS due to being QRT for 20 years), as well as wanting a rig to take on camping trips, I ended up with the FT-897. I did so for all the reasons you state. I use the rig in the shack, and although it's not my main HF rig, I still use my old FT-707 for that, it is a great radio! I call it "DC to light" coverage - although not quite, but it covers just about all I'd like it to. I also bought the rig used and when I got it, did a master reset to clear all the memories and settings. I then took a few hours to play with all the settings to set it up as I wanted to. Within a couple hours, the menu driven settings will be easily mastered, if I did it, anybody can - hi hi... If there is one feature I would have wanted, it would have been full duplex capability to work the satellites. Full duplex would allow you to hear your own signal returning from the birds. With all aspects of ham radio out there to enjoy - modes, bands etc..., the FT-897 may not fit your particular needs. But as for myself, being basically a CW (and a tad of SSB) operator, all in all, I definitely am happy with the rig and if I had to search again for a rig, with all factors involved, I still would come up with the FT-897. 73 de Gary - KQ2N

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the comments, Gary. I hope you have as much fun with your 897 as I do with mine.

[@glenng.8254]

The 706 mkIIG only draws 900ma on rcv with the back light off.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have you measured that? I've owned that rig in the past and did a lot of research on it. I'd be really surprised if this is true.

[@W-733_KWX]

Great presentation of this great and rugged rig with much less than an amp as RX consumption lots of time neglected by ops in the field. With a different mike, it's a heck of a rig. Got mine not a long time ago as a 2013 rig NIB. A keeper for sure as a vacation rig, or having as a 2nd rig at home, or just like me, also using it at home to monitor VHF and UHF SSB freqs.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! Enjoy that rig.

[@DavidS-iw4ei]

I love all 3 of the FT-8x7. I have all 3 of them. Yes they are noisy in the shack. Out in the field. A way from QRM/EMI. They are quite. I have worked a lot of DX (voice) on all 3 of them. It's easier with the FT-857 or the FT-897. I bought my FT-857 new in 2005. Christmas 2018 I bought the FTDX3000 to replace the FT-897 for the shack. I'll be taking my FT-897 to Scotland and leaving it there. Great video.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, David!

[@rgmanica]

Hello my friend! Nice vídeo! I agree with you. Such amazing equipment should not have been discontinued. Q: what do you have attached at the left of the radio?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

That device attached to the side of the rig is the Yaesu FC=30 autotuner.

[@rgmanica]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Yes, i know... I do know why ive asked it... 😅😂

[@coctailer]

You get a thumbs up for the Star Trek "Stone knives and bear skins" reference! LOL

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

😂

[@AL6S00740]

Lovely radio have mine and is a joy for ever :D until the filters go bad ofcourse ...

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Shhh...don't talk about the filters...mine are still good, no point in jinxing our rigs 😀

[@Butchrknife]

Hi Mike Thanks for the info . I just put together a mobile rig like the one on your table. I had to buy it in 2 pieces but I can't wait to check it out. Picked up a MFJ 1910. What antenna are you using on that as a dipole/ wire antenna. Thanks Around Seattle out

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have fun with that rig! I mostly use HyEndFed antennas with my gear. They work very well.

[@papotorres9064]

Just got this radio , and I love it , Alfred NYC /PR WP4WF

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Glad to hear that! I still love mine.

[@texasfrontiersman8245]

The new 991a is a superior HF transceiver with much better DSP but its 2.2 amp draw on receive means it is not a emergency field rig like the FT-897D. One would need minimum 90 watt solar panel and 40ah battery just to maintain 24/7 receive. Yes the 897 is noisy buy the bhi dsp and enjoy the best of both worlds.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comments, Lance!

[@cdrice999]

Four years late to the party, but I just found this video (and your great channel) and just wanted to say thanks! I've recently started looking into operating HF while hiking/camping (hilariously, I wondered if I might have somehow been one of the first people to think of such a thing - HA!) and have been looking for a portable rig. Everything I have at my QTH are boat anchors and most are as old as me (circa 1974 - almost an antique!). There are a ton of tiny QRP rigs out there to choose from, but I also operate primarily SSB voice and wanted more power without the fuss of an additional amp. I overanalyzed my options for quite a while over the past few weeks ;) and had narrowed my choices down to the Yaesu 897, 857 or 891 lines - and several of the great points you made in this video really pushed me to 897. I just found a decent deal for an 897D online, and... "it's in the mail"! Thanks for your great content and for encouraging folks to get out of the shack and operate outdoors. This is a whole new world of fun for me, and combines a couple of my favorite things - camping/hiking and HF radio! Hope to catch you on the air one day. 73s de kc4kqe

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Never too late to this party! I'm looking forward to that contact with you. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@skywave12]

Am keeping mine. Bought it 14 Years ago. I use a Flex at home. When I go portable/mobile this is the one. Great explanation. Ars W7RU

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Nice! Thank you for leaving your comment, it's appreciated.

[@jasoncreed6396]

Thx bro I'm sold I'm looking to buy 1 now and you convinced me;)

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Enjoy!

[@Roskellan]

love my FT-897, I use it as my main receiver. You mention the menu's, I use a computer to do my logging and to control some aspects of the rig via the CAT output - this solves the menu problem. I have also done a mod to take the I.F. out to the back of the rig on an SMA connector. This allows me to operate a Bandscope from the Rig with a cheap RTL dongle and also able to view that bandwidth on a larger screen , not even available to the FT991. I have used internal battery's for extensive use on receive and the power pack , which is great because I'm not lumping a power supply around when I go portable. So even mobile/ portable I can run the rig easily with x2 laptops running on their batteries do my logging and rig control on one and the band scope on the other. I've looked at the FT991 but for me it offers no real advantage and my familiarity with the FT897 further causes me to pause before I would trade it in.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@WA8QFE]

I still have mine that I bought in 2002 and used as A25LT, /LZ, /ZS and more. Just bought new batteries...ouch.... Lee, WA8QFE

[@RabLavery]

I need one of these yesterday type of thing , but so damn hard to come by because of discontinuation. Im told to go for the ft897d rather than just the ft897 . Is there much of a difference ??? And could I still be lucky to find one of these knocking around ? Best Regards All

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Rob, there is very little difference between the 897 and 897D. The only one I can think of off the top of my head is the 897D came standard with the TXCO, on the 897 it was an option. Performance-wise the models are identical.

[@Kodo-Nashi]

What is that attached to the side/bottom of the radio? Looks to big to be just a speaker. A battery maybe?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

It's the Yaesu FC-30 autotuner.

[@mattwilliamson5369]

Great review of the radio, I have an 897 coming my way to try out for HF APRS. I have an IC-7200 that I'm using right now, I'll be interested to compare the 2. Looks like someone was having a bit of trouble finding the ANT port at the beginning there! 73, VE7MHW.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have fun with your 897! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@Philip-KA4KOE]

Paired with an AT-897Plus, the tuner will match just about anything.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

That's a great combo!

[@Philip-KA4KOE]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4bSc4qlf8aVe9U

[@paulkf5pv]

Spot on. I am not crazy about the radio when used in your home shack. Portable or mobile is an entirely different story. Glad that you pointed out power consumptions, as an Electrician, and "watt watcher at home. 20 dollar electric bill" I am always watching current draws. Wifi and GPS almost always off on my phone, while I watch my coworkers struggle with charging their phones at work, with both turned on and not using it for 8 hours.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment! Good points.

[@arctos49]

I own one again (last one 10 years ago) and I love it. The receiver isn't THAT noisy and there is a BHI noise cancelling kit that can be purchased to improve the receive but I will probably just use the rig the way it is. On SSB you can adjust the IF shift to lower the hiss as well. As to the display you forgot to mention that you can double the size of the readout by selecting the function DISP with the C button. Then the readout becomes easier to read. I don't have any problem with the menu items and find them pretty easy to use. There is a lot of versatility possible with this rig including installing an internal AC power supply. I also like the fact that the rig offers a Morse code practice function. All in all a terrific, versatile rig that covers 160 meters to 440 mHz, all modes and with general coverage receive. I can also listen to the aircraft band and FM! I found mine in mint shape, 5 years old and I paid $400. One of the best amateur deals I have ever had. Even if I get a "high-end" rig later this 897D will likely act as the backup, VHF/UHF, portable, or mobile rig. I'm very pleased to have another one. Oh, yes, and I love that rugged handle! 73, Bruce K6RQR

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great comment and points, thank you Bruce! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@andypalm7061]

This was very interesting. I'm getting into this hobby,and need to start looking for proven performers for my money. I was just looking at this unit as a used option. Very good info. From a real user.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I hope you get yourself a good rig, Andy! Thank you for watching.

[@NSNorfolk]

Every time I'm tempted to sell my FT-897 in favor of an FT-991A, I visit this video. It's always interesting and I seem to find a new take-away each time I see it. I do Parks on the Air and SOTA and while the 897 is a bit of a load for SOTA, I always find that the 100 watt output is worth the extra work backpacking up to a peak.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I've done the same mental gymnastics as you concerning the 897 vs. the 991A. Bottom line, I still have my 897. Take care my friend.

[@bobmcclard9163]

Very nice video... like the fact you were in the field with all the noises in the background... I have a small go kit with mine inside a Colman portable ice chest with carrying handle... taken it out in the field many times for a day of fun... carry antennas inside with small external speaker. Good rig... mine is twelve years old and still works great.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Bob! I like your idea of making a go kit in an ice chest.

[@xeropave]

Great "straight up" evaluation of what the 897 was designed to do. Be portable, rugged, powerful, battery conserving, All-Band, powerhouse that will fit comfortably in a small rucksack along with a motorcycle battery and get the job done. Got one coming for all of those reasons. Well done sir.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you! I hope you get as much enjoyment from your 897 as I do from mine.

[@satveerc]

Fantastic review I learned a lot. What’s the ideal mag mount antenna for this?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I would not use a mag mount for HF with the 897 or any other rig. I've had bad experiences with them (i.e ability to stay on at highway speeds).

[@sethlavinder]

The same HATE people have for this rig can also be applied to the ICOM IC-7200 , I like the performance of my IC-7200 but Ive considered parting ways several times because my eyes just hate that tiny display

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment Seth. I owned a 7200 for a while and really liked it. Ham Radio Deluxe made the small display a non-issue for me.