I am a ham radio guy, ke4ilg. That being said I know that the mobile radios(the ones that mount in cars) ususally have a substantial Al heat sink. Many also have an Al housing. The handie talkies are normally made of Al. I would think that the police radios would be similar. As for the boards I don't know. If possible take a look in person and get a good weight. Sometimes takiing a chance is the only way to learn somethings. Mike.