Thanks for all the guidance...I went ahead and submitted the application for the license (man is that website buggy)
Now I just figure out which ones I get. Looks like the BAOFENG UV-9G (need to figure out if I can attach a strap) or the Retevis RB17P.
Question...if the antenna is removable, can I swap with a small stubby version? Does any antenna work, or is it specific to brand?
The Midland you mentioned is not waterproof. Instead of the BTECH GMRS-V1 I just bought the really waterproof BAOFENG UV-9G. I consider them to be similar and the UV-9G as an upgrade, but you'll need to compare the features. The UV-9G comes with a programming cable and more memory locations. I bought a GMRS-V1 a few years ago but decided to not keep it. The UV-9G was the first one that caught my eye since the GMRS-V1.
For casual use I bought the Motorola Talkabout T605. Also waterproof, floats, and the light automatically comes on if dropped into water, and has a red flashlight.