so i'm looking at the Cobra 18wxst and the Cobra HH38. What are the drawbacks to the handheld model? I like the fact that i won't (i don't think) have to go through the additional expense/effort of mounting an external antenna. is this true, or will I still have to mount an antenna to get good performance out of it?

I'd say avoid the handheld. I have one, and using it inside a vehicle is a pain. You really do need an external antenna, the vehicle structure blocks a much of the signal. Between the power cable and the external antenna cable, it's a pain in the ass to use. I have a cheap $15 roll-up-in-the-window antenna base from Radio Shack that allows me to simply remove the stubby antenna from the handheld, plug in the cable, and then stick the stubby on the base on the window. Radio Shack doesn't carry it any more though...

Have you seen/considered the 75 WXST? That would be my choice if I replace my HH28.

Brent

yeah, i saw the 75, but i wasn't too crazy about what looked like some pretty tiny buttons on it for the controls. i've seen that lots of people in XOC have one; any opinions on it? comfort/convenience-wise, how is it compared to a "normal" mobile CB?

No idea, but small buttons shouldn't be much of a concern since you can bring the thing up close...

Brent

If you want to get out when transmitting get a mobile. If you are going to be using outside of the truck alot, then get a handheld.

Or do like me and get both