Portable handheld radios

ktmrfs wrote:

McIntraveler wrote:
This is a topical topic for me. We're in the market for a radio setup that will allow us to talk between the car and truck while traveling and that is small enough that they can be used to communicate while backing into spots. Reading this thread, it seems like GMRS radios are the way to go over PRS because of increased transmit power. Couple of questions:

Any brand suggestions?

I see distance ratings for various radios. Do I really need a 36 mile or do something like the 20 mile radios suffice?

Does everyone really get a license for these things or will simply behaving and not acting like clowns keep me out of trouble?

Thanks.

20 or 30 mile range is virtually impossible in all reality with GMRS radios. the fine print for that range is if you are on top of a mountain, and the other radio is on flat ground with NO obstructions and clear line of sight. you can't even get 20 miles if you are on flat clear ground.

In reality expect maybe a mile or few miles in clear unobstructed terrain, and well under a mile in dense trees and uneven terrain.

We run the Standard Horizon 1,2,5W units using the MURS channels which don't need a license for 2W or below. and also have other channels programmed to use local repeaters. 5 miles is probably the best range we have ever got with a good antenna.

I've used the GMRS radios available at most big box stores etc. and they are ok. if you want waterproof, or rugged, or good mic, or better antenna, or lapel mic, or headset or long battery life the standard horizon radios are IMHO a very good choice. No, they aren't inexpensive, but they take a licking and keep on ticking. and they can be programmed for various frequencies and have the weather channels as well.

We have the set up either for handheld use or coupled to a boom mic and ear speakers in all our riding groups helmets. great for communication. then we also use them when camping as handhelds.

Those do look nice. Thanks for the tip. They're not givin' them away, are they? MURS is interesting.