It all depends on what you're planning/wanting to do...
Two-way communications? A UHF portable handheld from ICOM (IC-F24 gets my vote) or Motorola (CP200 gets my vote here).
Scanners are available from many reliable manufacturers.
HF communications get a bit more pricey, FCC license is required I believe...
Wayyyy too many options out there... What's the goal here?