Just noticed that right now they run a rebate again for the Rescue Me PLB1 ... maybe not as cheap as in the original post from 2016, but from what I can tell around $239 (Amazon) - $50 rebate - presuming the seller is "participating" (whatever that means...)
http://oceansignal.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/OS USA Rebate Form Beacon Savings SUMMER 2017.pdf
ACR and Ocean Signal both seem to offer $50 rebates a couple of times a year. It seems that this sale ends soon, purchase by July 5, mail rebate request within 30 days, so this would be a great time to get one. I don't leave my house without mine, much less hike, boat, dive, or even work on my farm. Much more dependable than a cell phone, and so small & lightweight to carry! I'd be embarrassed to have to use mine for myself, but it'd be better than laying or floating helpless for days.
Prices can vary on both brands some some retailers charging
twice as much as others! Amazon is not often the cheapest for my shopping, but they do indeed offer this one for less than anyone else I can currently find: $239 & free shipping:
Amazon.com: Ocean Signal Rescue ME PLB1 - EPI3110: Electronics Well, that supplier claims to have only 3 left, but google can find you another supplier under $250 easily. Be sure to get the rebate request completed and mailed quickly, then watch your mail closely. They hope that you trash the envelop as junk mail of course, so they can keep the $50, as all rebaters do - but you can indeed get your money.
The cheapest dive canister I've found comes from Australia, works well, and weighs a lot less than the well known aluminum canister. Only $108 including shipping!
CANISTER for PLB: SCUBA Diver Emergency Locator Beacon/VHF Marine Radio. | eBay Do keep the o-ring moist with silicone grease.
My ACR PLB has 2 years left on it and I am tempted to go with the smaller one next time. I may just get the battery replaced, as that's cheaper than getting a new one - but not a lot cheaper. New electronics would seem more dependable than old.