An old thread but just some observations about the comments.

Yes, it would be nice if only very dependable, typically higher priced brands of radios could be used.  But that's not always possible for some departments, especially volunteer department that depend on 'self-bought' equipment.  Think about that, your equipment, radios, bunker-gear, etc, comes out of your pocket.  That's a pretty good 'chunk' of $$$!  Not using the most expensive equipment is always a consideration, no matter if it's your 'neck' or someone elses.  You do that economizing in areas that aren't an 'absolute sure thing' life endangerment.  That's true for the bigger, paid departments too you know.  (Don't know about you, but I couldn't afford the higher priced stuff, and I was a firefighter, I know how important gear is.)
The 'Chinese' radios aren't the 'best' in the world, but they can certainly be useful.  You can't use a Motorola HT for a hammer either!  Things have improved, you don't find many volunteer departments fighting grass fires with wet tow-sacks anymore.  But you also don't find many with $50,000 grass rigs either.
Do I think all departments should be using the 'Chinese' HTs?  No, I don't.  But if that's what is affordable, then why not?
 - Paul

    Your unfortunate paddle fiasco reminds me of my first outside QRP trip after returning to the hobby,I was using my old Bencher BY-1  paddles and due to the proliferation of the spring blackflies and mosquitoes my springs and contact points were soon a mash of squished goo and useless.

I would say for low / moderate VFD / SAR ops or something to take home if you have to keep your federally mandated 800mhz radios under lock and key like our local SAR ops do, I would look at the Wouxun KGUV6D V2.