I did mention coats to coats or corner to corner of the US. Handheld going to do that? That’s a lot of repeaters to bounce off of, especially where I am in the Ozarks. I forget the license level names but for what I’m talking about, it’s the second level.
Then there’s all that sunspot and other stuff to know.
I wasn’t suggesting a $50 handheld was the best choice rather it is a cheap way to begin. The licence levels are Technician, General, and Amateur extra. Side note a handheld will at least allow you to communicate with your neighbors.