Getting ready for my NVIS test, I decided to see what the total weight difference was between my 5w FT-817 setup for digital modes compared to my 100w FT-891 setup for voice.
FT-817 DIGITAL MODES
At almost 9lbs - 11oz this case has everything (minus some cables) to do JS8Call at 5w, which IME is plenty enough power for weak signal modes and can work West to East coasts easily.
How the lower power does as NVIS at the 3-5miles mark is my next test which for deciding which setup becomes my go-to for feild comms as this radio kit would be used for extended foot patrols and sending SALUTES to base while out.




FT-891 VOICE MODE
At 12lbs - 9oz and roughly 2.88lbs heavier (3lb battery) this setup can only do voice, but I have 100w available which gets me over the 20w doctrinal threshold for NVIS operations.
This setup can also be lightened by 1.63lbs if I switch out the higher quality 12Ah Bioenno LifePo4 for the 6Ha MIADY LifePo4, bringing the FT-891 package to within 1.25lbs of the FT-817 setup.
Personally, I would rather have the quality battery, but a final weight of roughly 11lbs with the voice NVIS power of 100w and less components to mess with than the digital setup, has me seriously considering this package as my go-to field setup.
IF VOICE CAN MAKE THE TRIP SO CLOSE IN?
If it passes the NVIS test, I might consider a full on manpack build for it, the upcoming test will be the deciding factor on that one though.






Until I actually weighed the two, I really would not have considered the FT-891 an option for a field radio. Never say never I guess!
One thing is for sure, HF field kits are not lightweight and before adding one on top of my normal loadout I better have a good reason for doing so.
After I establish which method can make the comms trip, I will look into paring the weight down even further.
Beauty review. Thanks.