Trends and Patterns:Currently, most 50MHz/144MHz VHF DX operation is done in FT8 mode (try CW when propagation conditions are good), or using meteor scatter with MSK144, or EME JT65/Q65.
Dissemination:This summer, the 2-meter band was exceptionally active and enjoyable, with 705+GP easily connecting to areas 1 through 7 and JA/UA. However, the 6-meter band was not as good as last year.
Threshold:The biggest hurdle is still the equipment issue. The cheapest full-band, full-mode scanner currently available would likely be the Q900 from GHK. I'm hesitant to buy one as my primary scanner. If your budget allows, you can get a 910H for around $5000, which is a great option due to its large coverage and affordability. There's also a chance of upgrading to 1.2 GHz in the future.
License: Models like ICOM, Yaesu, and Kenwood that are purely VU (voice-operated) full-mode radios often cannot be used for amateur radio operation. This is usually because they are too old or simply never obtained a license. Even the latest models, such as the 9700, fall into this category.
P.S.: The ICOM-705 can be used for local licensing, which is great! However, it lacks sufficient power.