Wind-In-Face than you for the complement, but I consider myself a well read novice at best.  

I agree about not being reachable for the most part, but...  I solo and I tend to not be in the popular places at popular times, I have a fear of breaking a wrist, losing my canoe, ….and not being able to make it out.  I was wind/storm bound for most of my last trip.  If I knew the weather forecast/radar, I would have slept in the day and traveled at night.  I am hoping that the HAM radio will allow me to be safe, but not have an electronic leash.

asmjock, thank you for the insight.  You are confirming my assumptions and not in a good way.  I need to think about this some more.  I am open to suggestions/ideas.