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Camping_Woody's avatar
Camping_Woody
Explorer
Apr 05, 2017

Install CB radio or not?

I have a nice CB radio from a few years back from our last RV. With cell phones, GPS with traffic/etc., and FRS radios, does CB still have a place under the dash?

I don't just want to throw it away but it seems redundant. I will still have to get new antennae and stuff, but I'm on the fence.

I have a handheld CB radio that I could use for local comms, but the last time I listened, it was pretty foul language, angry discussions, and not much entertainment or help for that matter.

I have considered HAM radio, but don't have time to study for the exam at this point.

Opinions?
Seeking Advice

47 Replies

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  • Johno02's avatar
    Johno02
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2017
    I have one that was in the MH when we got it. It is usually on, especially if there is a problem backing up traffic out on the road. Not much traffic, but truckers do talk back and fort a lot at truck stops whee they are getting in and out and helping do a bit of local traffic control, just like ATC at an airport. I don't have enough range to do a lot of talking except to someone close. Probably wouldn't buy and install a new one, but it is handy sometimes.
  • mowermech's avatar
    mowermech
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2017
    I have several CBs. None of them are hooked up at the present time.
    I have a General Class amateur Radio License, so my short distance communications is either 2 meter simplex or through a 2 meter repeater.
    I had FRS/GMRS radios years ago. They were, IMO, no better than a CB. I sold them.
    Cell coverage here in the West is getting better, but there are still vast areas with poor or no signals. Cell phones can not be relied on around here.
    Ham radio is the best bet. If nothing else works, I can set up an HF antenna and make a contact in California or Florida to get help.
  • Beverley_Ken's avatar
    Beverley_Ken
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2017
    Like you, I had one on the shelf, so I installed. I've found it useful for traffic info, listening to others it can tell you what lane to avoid etc, if your close to a problem. Sometimes its turned on, most times not.
    I had it so I put it in, Would I go out and buy one, NO.

    Ken
  • Goostoff's avatar
    Goostoff
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2017
    I have a CB in my truck. It mostly gets used when we get to the campground if there is a site with a low tree or one that may affect a slide I have the wife set behind the trailer with the hand held and keep watch. My youngest boy then likes to take the hand held on his bike around the campground and we chat a bit . He gets a kick out of it.
  • Mandalay_Parr's avatar
    Mandalay_Parr
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2017
    I have ham radios and cb. I use the cb for info from truckers. Fuel stops and road conditions.

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