More Handi-Talkies

[pkveazey]

I've mentioned in the past that I have more than a dozen Bao Feng Handi-talkies all programmed up with the frequencies that don't require a license. I spotted some 8 watt Bao Feng UV5R's on Amazon for only $27. Damn!!! I jumped on that and ordered 2 of them. I already have about 5 or 6 of their 8 watter's but bought two more anyway. When it comes time to pass out HT's to my neighbors, during an emergency, I would prefer to give them the 5 watter's. If any of you have the same idea about creating a local network of MURS operators, I'd also suggest EXTRA BATTERIES. I'm sure some of you are wondering why all of my HT's are the same model. Well, they do make newer and better models but I'm making certain that every battery pack will be interchangeable with every radio. If an HT craps out on me, I'll scavenge the Battery, Charger, and Antenna. OK, back to the 8 Watters. An 8 watter connected to an outside antenna makes a pretty decent base station for 2 meters and 440. My first 2 meter mobile radio was a 10 watt Yaesu and it worked great as my base radio. Here's a side note: Don't get long winded on a 8 watt handi-talkie because they'll get really hot really quick and then it'll quit working.

[reconprepper]

I have a bunch of the same model radios as well. I bought them all because like you I wanted everything interchangeable. Antennas, batteries, chargers, cases, etc. Honestly the difference between 5 and 8 watts I cant even tell a difference. its minor at best.

[pkveazey]

Guess what? Yep, I just ordered 2 more 5 watt UV5R's. They were only $20.75 each and I don't know what got into me but I punched that buy them now button. I think it was because the picture showed them with the 7" thin flexible antenna. I really don't like the 5" stiff and stubby antennas.

[Nemo]

These things require the HAM license, correct?

Nemo

[Jackalope]

It depends upon the frequency being used.  The Baofengs have a wide frequency range.  Though it's technically illegal, some folks have programmed them with FRS, GMRS and MURS frequencies.  That allows the Baofeng radios to communicate with common FRS radios sold in Walmarts, but with greater power.  In an emergency you can use any frequency necessary to resolve the situation.  No license is required to purchase the radios.  Be very aware of the frequencies programmed in the radios, as you not want to interfere with public service agencies, which will bring down the wrath of the FCC.  The wide band abilities are part of the reason why the FCC does not want the Baofeng radios to be sold in the U.S.  By the way, there's been several photos of Antifa agents using Baofeng radios, so the FCC concern is valid

[pkveazey]

These things require the HAM license, correct?

Nemo

Yes, sort of. They can be programmed for a ton of different frequencies,  some of which are Ham frequencies. When used on Ham frequencies, you have to have a license. The best use for them for the unlicensed would be MURS(Multi-Use Radio Service) or MARINE band(if you're on the water). You are limited to 2 watts on the MURS band and Marine HT's are generally 5 watts anyway. As far as the 440 MHZ portion goes, they suck on 440 and you can't use them for FRS(Family Radio Service) because they have a detachable antenna (not allowed) and you are only allowed 1/2 a watt. The LOW setting on the UV5R is 1 Watt and the HIGH setting is 5 watts. The good thing about them having a detachable antenna is you can hook them up to an outside antenna like on a car or a base station and still be legal. On MURS the CB rules apply. On MURS you can only have the antenna 60 feet high or 20 feet above a fixed structure. If you are near an airport, then the FAA antenna height rules apply. I hope that helps. When the SHTF most Preppers will probably use the MURS frequencies. They also will probably use the 5 watt setting that they aren't supposed to and will be SPEEDING a little bit but its not like they will be running 100 watts where it will be obvious. There are 7 MURS frequencies but only 5 are usable. The upper 2 (Channel 6 and 7) frequencies are still licensed frequencies. Eventually when those licenses expire, they will probably allow free use of them. For now, STAY OFF OF THEM.