what kind of radio do you use?

[beretta]

im looking at some radios (walkie talkie type) just wondering what kind you guys liked the best? there are a lot of different models out there. also what is the maximum range you can use them? thanks a lot
-kyle

[#Boater#]

You may want to put this in the equipment forum. I believe the number 1 key to radio's is output power. No matter what the package reads for how far it will reach, it can only go as far as it has the power for. Almost all gmrs radio's have an output power of 2 watts. I don't care if the package reads 7 miles, it won't reach 7 miles on 2 watts of power. You'll be lucky to get 3-4 miles. I would talk to the people at Radio Shack. They know a lot about radio's and should be able to set you up.

[waterwolff]

kaz is the man to talk to on the radio question. I did see that office depot had some listed in there add today with a in store rebate and than a mail in rebate so the total cost of the radio's was nothing pretty tough to beat that

[pathogen]

I've been using the Motorola Talkabouts for a number of years. 3-4 miles is about the best that can be expected. I like mine a lot for keeping in touch with people I'm fishing with.

[Kaz]

Beretta: First you need to determine what you want it for. If it's just to communicate between others for a short distance, then the GMRS by Motorola is a good choice. That gives you the privicy you may want and they are little enough to fit in a small pocket. You will get 3 to 4 miles and that is about it. For Ice fishing or around small areas, the 3-4 miles, they work great. Now if you want to use it for talking to others, like in the summer time on the boat to see what the Guides are doing, then I'd look into handheld Marine radios. They are a little more expenseive, but they are more flexable and put out more power, most are 5 watts. External power, add on antennas, and some have additional plug in Mic's. They can scan specific channels and most of the Resorts have base stations you can reach if need be. Cost is another factor. GMRS radios, forget the FRS they are very low power out, run about $50. each, but are on sale quite often. Marine handhelds cost between $80 and $110 each, depends on what do you want to spend. Getting back to the research, look around checking the catalogs, and figure out what you really want to use it for. I like the Standard brand for Marine and Motorola for the GMRS, Having said that, other brands are very good too. It's just that you need to look, feel, and play with the one that fits you the best. Hope I've enlightened you a little on the subject....Kaz

[This message has been edited by Kaz (edited 02-15-2004).]

[beretta]

wow...thanks guys! kaz, you obviously know your stuff. im hopeing to be able to use these for fishing, road trips (talking to friends in other vehicles, and hunting out west. i guess i dont really need to know what the guides are doing...but it would be nice to hear other fishermen talking. which one do you think sounds like it would work better for me? also what about one of those licenses (i cant remember what theyre called), do i need one? thanks a lot guys.
-kyle

[Kaz]

Beretta: From what you stated, I'd go with a pair of the GMRS radios. I think they'll do you just fine. Check out the sales at the various stores and go for it. As for a licence, most people don't bother with one. To be legal, just stay on the first seven channels of the GMRS frequencies. You can select any of the subtones for privicy, but set both radios to the same channels. The directions explain how to set them up. If you have friends that also have a FRS or GRMS radio, you can talk to them too if you select the same parameters....Good luck..Kaz

[Bobcat45]

Kaz do you have any idea what range you can get out of 2-5watt marine radios?

[Kaz]

Bob: I would think a good four to five miles. A little more over water. A rule of thumb is "One mile per Watt". One thing though, don't get caught using a Marine Radio on land. The FCC frowns on that!! I know some people do use them for that purpose, but they are really meant for on the water... I heard of some Truckers that got banged real good for using them instead of CB radios.. I'd suggest that you stay with the GMRS radios for land use....Kaz

[Bobcat45]

Kaz would be using them in a boat. That is good to know. Thanks for the info

[Woodguy]

I have a set of Uniden HH980 radios that have a 1 or 5 watt feature. These will really reach out and are watertight. They are a ship-to-shore talkie and have lots of bells and whistles like weather,backlit display, rechargable battery, and a lot more. They weren't cheap tho......$400 for a pair. I have talked 5 miles thru the woods with them and they will go farther on H20 of course. These were made to last and take abuse(not that I abuse them). Don't know if they still make that model though.