I'm torn between these two rigs for my POTA setup. The IC-705 seems perfect for backpack portable with its small size and VHF/UHF coverage, but the 10W limit worries me for weak band conditions. The FT-891 gives me 100W on HF which should punch through better, but it's heavier and no VHF coverage.

Those of you who've used both - which has worked better for getting your 10 contacts? Does the extra power of the 891 make a real difference, or is 10W from the 705 usually enough with a decent antenna?

I've been using the 705 for about 2 years now and rarely have trouble getting contacts, even on poor band days. The key is antenna - my EFHW up 20 feet works great. The VHF/UHF is a bonus for local contacts when HF is dead.

Depends on your parks really. If you can drive to the site, the 891 is fantastic - that 100W really helps in contests when everyone's running power. But for hikes, the 705 wins hands down. Weight matters!

As someone new to POTA, I went with the 705 and haven't looked back. The built-in waterfall helps me find clear frequencies, and I love being able to work 2m FM when HF is slow. Got 47 contacts on my last activation!