I just passed my Element 2 test this afternoon (and missed
Element 3 by only 3 questions even though I haven't yet
looked at the General class question pool :-)

So I will be looking for some VHF/UHF equipment (HT
& mobile?) in the next few weeks. I had looked around
some websites several months ago and concluded that
there was a particular brand/model of HT that seemed to
be both widely-used and highly-regarded. But now I
can't remember the recommendation (or the websites).
So IS there a "sure-thing" or "everybody's favorite" HT
or mobile rig out there? I'm not averse to 2nd-hand if
there is some way to confirm proper/legal operation.

I have some years of experience in audio,video and
general electronics, and I know when newbies (like
me) come to one of those newsgroups with this kind
of question, everyone rolls their eyes and makes
snide remarks about such a public display of ignorance
So I know I risk looking silly coming and asking this.
But hey, they say there are no stupid questions except
the ones you didn't ask. :-)

If it makes any difference I am in the Portland, OR
metro area. Assuming I will find out sooner or later
what the local scene is like.