I used the vr500 with both falcon and hawks, if you are struggleing at close range like you said put the small rubber ariel on and hold it to your chest then turn round to find the signal, very effertive..
I use 173 on my hawks and falcons, the only reason I use this freq is cause friends that fly birds near me I know use this so it make it easier to search for a missing bird between us..
I have to control the rabbits on a local golf course, I thought I would sit up there watching one of the areas where they are qiute active with the s200, there was 2 which managed to kick down holes..
i fly mine throught the summer months,(but not hunting) but its only because of work other wise they would be in moult, its nice to get them and me a break from flying, also they can get on with growing new feathers..
i lost my male pere x saker last seen heading aylesbury bucks, way then lost signal so could be anywhere by now hes on 173.205. thanks Richard 07540889913