Holly cow. I actually understood what this guy said for once. I have listened to other people on you tube hundreds of times. But I could not "get it" this guy boils it down to an art. Thank you, Sir, for your articulate knowledge. I am going to start with getting my GMRS right now!! EXCELLENT JOB!!!! WELL DONE!!!
Terrible advice. GMRS only covers a micro slice of frequencies which I could easily jam if I needed to. All emergency services use vhf/uhf so gmrs is useless. The average user can't pick up an fm radio and make any sense of how it works so the hour required to scan the info and another to take the test is invaluable info NEEDED in an emergency. I'm just an old spec forces guy with zero gmrs but all 3 ham licenses and an all mode/ all band 100w station w/satellite tennas just in case running on solar from the rv but sure, keep that $30 gmrs toy for your "safety".
@@titanno7 Oh the Website is a joke (Federal Govt... 😆) There are a few step by step guides out there just look it up. Not sure if I can post Website/links here.
@titanno7 That in itself is a complete ordeal... You must create an account, request a FRN, link your FRN, go to their "streamlined" licensing page, pay uncle daddy to use your free speech and POW you are g2g
Just study for a couple weeks and get your Tech license. That’s what I just did. $15 for the test and $35 for the FCC call sign. And that’s good for 10 years as well. Way more capable frequencies.
I have both a ham and a GMRS license. Different tools for different jobs as I see it. Ham radio is way more capable in general. More repeaters, morn operators, more bands, APRS, all of that good stuff. The downside is that the license only covers me. I run GMRS when I'm out with my family. I love the fact that once license covers them all. I just hand my wife and my daughter radios and were good to go. When I'm out solo, I run ham radio (with APRS). Again, different tools for different jobs.
@@GruntProof Not legally. They definitely have the ability to transmit on GMRS, MURS, etc... But they're not type certified to transmit in those bands. That being said, I don't think anyone is going to know (or care) if you're using one on GMRS/MURS
@@GruntProof not legally like the other guy said, but the FCC has never once in its entire existence prosecuted anyone for using the 'wrong' radio. People do it all the time and as long as you follow the rules, etiquette, and are licensed for the frequencies you are broadcasting on there will be no issues.
I have both licenses. GMRS is probably what most of the family and group will use for camping/outdoors/SHTF. Ham radio has allowed me to get further into the fine tuning, repair, and experimentation of comms. Which I cannot lie, will be beneficial if we have to build our own stuff. Thanks for the video, and Godspeed!
I have FRS, GMRS, MURS, Ham, Public Service, etc. capabilities in the VHF/UHF realm; also capable in HF using various spectra. In case of emergency/SHTF scenario, I transmit on whatever gets me the outcome I desire - the bureaucrats can try to go after me later...
@@MsRotorwingsDoesn't the MARS program specifically promote the ability to transmit on as many frequencies as the equipment is capable of for Mil/Civ connectivity and emergencies?
I know I am going to draw some fire for this. A Ham radio modified to work on GMRS as well as Ham. In a full blown SHTF situation, Laws will have no meaning.
@@xc8487 I'm not sure. As I understand the rules, A Ham operator with a MARS License CAN Own an HT or Mobile VHF/UHF Radio that has been TX Modified. However it is my understanding that those frequencies can only be used during an actual MARS activity or Net.
I know everybody hates the rules...so do I sometimes...but if nobody gave a crap then nobody could talk because it would be chaos with chatter across all spectrums and all frequencies all of the time. If everybody follows the rules then we can all enjoy the relative calm it brings. Then, in a SHTF scenario you can go crazy and do whatever is needed. This is the way.
Very good. Radio telephone communications was part of my rating when I was active duty Navy some 40 years ago. When I first got my HAM license in 2000 you paid the FCC $10 after you passed the test to get your license. They mailed you a hard copy of your license. When I renewed in 2010 there was no charge. They e-mailed you a digital copy of your license you could print yourself. I upgraded to general class in 2017 and renewed in 2020 again at no charge. The control of the radio frequency spectrum is international as opposed to just the USA. Every form of communication in the radio frequency spectrum is assigned to the various users: TV, AM and FM radio, HAM, police, fire, military, etc. This is to prevent interference among users. You don't want to hear a HAM operator bleeding over onto your favorite rock radio station because they share the same freqs. In addition, military and public safety entities have gone to using encrypted software on their communications freqs to prevent eavesdropping. The first Baofengs in the USA had frequencies programmed into them that HAM operators weren't authorized to use. In other words thay had the capability for 2 way communications on freqs assigned to other users. HAM radios made by Japanese companies (Yaesu, ICom, Alinco, Kenwood) would allow you to listen to freqs "out of band" but could only transmit on the assigned HAM frequencies. I think the government now requires Baofengs to comply with FCC regs and transmit only on assigned HAM frequencies. I apologize for the long windedness. Hope this helps. Maybe a more experienced HAM could correct any inaccuracies.
The are ham repeaters everywhere. Almost no gmrs repeaters in many areas. I studied the ham material and was ready to test in a week. The developed knowledge is well worth it.
Without having to study for the ham license, and without regulations in place a lot of people would be juicing up signals way beyond what is allowed. The airwaves would be full of idiots making animal noises and farting into the microphone at 5000 watts. What will that pesky government do next? Require study, and tests for licenses to drive cars, fly airplanes, perform surgery…
What do you suggest getting radio wise. I wasn’t looking to cheap out. Something for me and my wife/kids and possibly my neighbors. I live in a normal surburban type neighborhood kind of
@@AttackYakChaos Personally I have a pair of 8W UV-5R. I am in Germany and find I can receive from numerous surrounding countries which is ideal in case of SHTF.
@@AttackYakChaos GMRS is supposed to be only for family members (according to their rules). So, neighbors would have to get their own GMRS HT's and license. Baofeng and Wouxun are good reliable radios.
What is your advice on water and food prep and what brand(s) GMRS radio do you recommend. I also live in suburbs (outside Chicago) and I’m looking to get prepared with comms and food and water. Please advise. Thank you.
I like your advice. What is the range of the GMRS? HAM? Probably depends on the repeaters, but what is the best case scenario? I haven't heard an answer to this, it's all very intriguing.
@@SteveTrafton without repeaters those handheld radios might get a mile in suburban or wooded areas, maybe 3 or more in you are on a hill with zero obstructions between you and the receiver. I had to go to a 50 watt truck mounted unit to somewhat reliably reach 10 miles. With repeaters you could reach much further, across states or even different coutries.
Why would you carry both, that makes no sense. You can program a UV-5R to operate on GMRS/MURS/NOAA/Marine. And you can operate on ANY frequency in an emergency. As far as getting a GMRS license (I have one just because I wish to use GMRS repeaters) 12 year old airsofters and paintball players have been using the UV-5R on GMRS without a license for years: No one from the FCC is coming to saying freeze, put the radio on the deck and take 5 steps back.
I am brand new to the gmrs community, an old trucker who trying to catch up with technology, I appreciate your information, you are much better than some of the arrogant experts on her. Again thank you
Do we really care about a licence when the government declares martial law and SHTF?if we no longer have rights after martial law, then i don't care to comply with any regulation
In declared the emergency only licensed hams will be operating That’s the purpose for them to get their license to be the ones operating during an emergency
Hi. Interesting video and I have to admit over the years I've spent a few pounds on Boafang radios from the little 3-watt versions, UV5, and my favorite, the waterproof versions. These have proved tough on walks on Exmoor and Dartmoor. One slipped down a hill, hit a rock, and then went into a stream Took 5 minutes to get down and recover it. It proved to be waterproof and still works. The batteries are good too, never had an issue and I have also found the standard antennas aren't bad at all. I'm currently trying to learn morse, attracted to 5 watts CW being approx equivalent to 70 -100 watts SSB or VHF/UHF and combining it with different portable antenna setups for operating Near Vertical Incidence Skywave. I've just got myself a little (Tru) SDX for that. Experimenting with radio is fun. Trying to get the new kit passed my wife can be daunting though. Thanks for the video, enjoyed it. By the way, we don't use the term Karen here, think it's rude. We call them wankers. Cheers.
I have a Ham licence but rarely use it to talk. In an emergency it will be 100 times more important to be able to listen to what is going on then to be able to talk. Talking may actually put you at risk or make you a target. Unless of course you are just lost in the woods or something. GMRS is fine for local communications. That being said, getting a Ham licence is not as complex as you seem to think and it is an opportunity to learn more about how your radio works and the best way to get the most out of it. People should also consider getting a shortwave receiver rig. They aren't that expensive anymore and they can come in handy. A good CB with a proper antenna, particularly an export rig can also make a great addition to your emergency kit.
I have a Kaito 1103 receiver. About the size of a paperback and uses 4 AA batteries. I use rechargeable and I can recharge inside the radio. I can listen to shortwave from Aussie BBC to east Coast USA, and down into Central America easily. Just don’t lose the manual for this particular radio. The logo on the controls confounds my brain. There are other easier to use radios but this is an excellent receiver with high sensitivity. Cost me about $100. Grundig/Eton make good radios too. Sony too. Expect to pay more for them.
The best investment for those is a aftermarket antenna.Not expensive but will make a difference. make sure it has the SMA male connection. diamond, nagoya are some of the top brands
Hey Randall, just to add my 2 cents. It's also dependant on if you are alone or a family etc. For HAM radio EVERYBODY has to have a licence, so for a family it's best to at least start with GMRS. Now if you are really interested in survival and being prepared then, at least have one member who's licensed and then he/she can get to use other bands and frequencies (and more power). That person can program their Baofeng to HAM repeaters AND GMRS, FRS etc and their single radio will be capable of both... If you have a fixed base location, as you do, this will also allow to reach out to find out what's going on and make contact over much greater distances even if you have no repeaters or they are down using satellite or HF (short wave) bands. That will cost more but has added benefits. For example since Russia invaded Ukraine it's been possible for some HAMS to find out what's really going on by speaking first hand to other HAMS there (even though they were not really supposed to use HAM radio due to state of emergency). Same recently with issues in CUBA. If you want to get licensed in the USA the Tech license is not that hard in other countries it depends. But there are a ton of good channels here on YT to check . David Canterbury recently got licensed and has a few videos for example. Also check Josh Ham Radio Crash course, for all things HAM. Or Jason KM4ACK has a channel dedicated to prepared radio and has a lot on using radios to send data and emails too with no infrastructure what-so-ever, and lastly Julian OH8STN Ham Radio ex signals dude AFAIK. For vehicles probably worth considering CB radio too as no need for licences and higher power too.
@@Dmac6969 Depends on conditions and terrain. In best case - line of site, mountain top to mountain top maybe 10-15 miles, but usually it's more likely just a couple miles. Buildings, trees, hills all make it difficult with the frequencies these operate on.
The vast amount of HAM radio information actually confuses the average person into not getting started with family & emergency comms. Simple breakdowns with a reasonable plan help regular folk adopt a COMMS plan for their local communities. Thanks for the video. KUTGW
I love my UV 5R. I have much more expensive radios but that cheap little thing is fantastic and what I carry all the time. The HAM technician class is not that hard, but fun fact, even HAM licensee has to get a GMRS license too. I have both. I use GMRS for the family to communicate when camping, hunting, fishing where we have no cell service. I also still use CB when going down the highway. The Ham stuff is for fun and training for real world crises. I used my HAM radio to help spot storms coming through the area, and to report emergencies when in those same areas with no cell service but that have repeater coverage. Chirp software for the UV5R makes programming a breeze. For less than $25 you cannot go wrong.
We have a huge GMRS network here in GA called NGGMRS. There is a small fee (for tower maintenance etc) but very cheap. Covers most of the top half of GA.
First of all, good job. You did give a fairly good overview. I will offer a different opinion. I am a Ham operator, and already programed in FRS, MURS, Both HAM simplex and repeater channels, as well as emergency channels, while disabling the ability to broadcast on emergency channels. Please note: the FRS and GMRS 22 channels main difference, is the allowed power output is higher for GMRS license holders. (Except chaneles 8-14 which are limited to .5 watt). The only thing not programed are the repeater channels for GMRS as that requires a license, GMRS repeaters are far rarer than HAM repeaters (2Meter). Being I can do almost everything Grunt PROOF can do with 2 handsets, with a single unit, for me this a preferred simplification. That Said, CB radios are surprisingly popular here, and I would suggest, if your area also has many CB users, you may want either a car, or handset for the CB. Aside from that My Bofang works great. If you want totally simplicity, consider a simple FRS radio, or a CB radio depending on your area, and needs.
I am into ham radio but I think the average person would be better off getting into gmrs. Boafang ( however it's spelled) is a fine beginners radio but I would definitely upgrade to a higher quality one at some point. Also consider getting a larger base station unit with a good antenna ( antennas are so much more important than people think) so you can reach out farther from your home if you have to bug in. But like all gear it is super important to practice with your radios. Learn their limits and quarks and what inexpensive upgrades you can do to make them more functional. If you are more technical get a ham radio license. The advantage with that is that you will be able to reach out beyond your 20 or so mile ( with a base station, 5 if you are lucky with a hand held ) region. You can also reach other countries, send and receive pictures, download weather satellite images, and get e mails. Also consider getting a inexpensive shortwave receiver. Since shtf in Ukraine the world has woken up the fact that letting world wide shortwave almost die out was a bad idea is starting to come back. It's a good way to get outside news and some form of entertainment. Also never forget about a decent weather radio.
In both of my cars, 2003 F350 Dually and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee as well as my home I have all 3 (ham HTs, GMRS and CB). I think in terms of communications its a good practice to have all three... Not a requirement but good practice. Now, HTs (HAMs) can be opened or a MARS Cap modification that would allow you to transmit in an SHTF situation. In an emergency... I listen while I drive 99% of the time (on CB channel 9 and 19 and GMRS channel 16 ). Use GMRS when we go camping... In the car, when I am by myself, I scan on CB channel 9 (Emergency) and 19 (Trucker and Traffic info) for info ahead. Very useful and entertaining. Get something, communications is important and learn how to use your equipment no matter what you choose. During storms and hurricanes, I give lend a radio to each of my neighbors and we stay in communications... part of my preparedness plan...
Radio is radio. I’m a general ham operator, active AMRRON member and run a local net in Skagit county every Sunday 20:00 local time. Please learn basic radio Net protocol and practice CH3: CB3 GMRS 3 MURS 3 Learn how to participate in a radio net. Checkins Relay And even lead a net.
A couple of points The HAM test is more involved because of the maximum power you can use - 1500 watts for most things vs a few for non HAM frequencies. The GMRS are all fully pre programmed because there are a very limited number of them and their offsets are fixed. For HAM the frequencies are unlimited and offsets are too, yes there are some gentlemen agreements on how to use but about anything can actually go. As I got very involved in emergency HAM use one of the big things most people don’t do is practice, when an emergency is happening it’s not the time to pull out the manual. If you have to do that you are just part of the problem.
I've got both HAM and GMRS. I have all my GMRS and HAM repeaters programmed into one radio. I don't give a crap what the sad hams say. The FCC almost never does anything about anything unless its really heinous such as blocking emergency comms, or jamming someone's repeater or other stupid things. Plus, someone has to make a complaint. Once the complaint has been made, and if the FCC decides to take on the case, and they find you, you will get a strongly worded letter advising you to stop. If you don't stop, another strongly worded letter with a threat of fines and imprisonment will be sent. Then, maybe after that, you might catch a fine. The whole thing hinges upon some HAM Karen making a complaint. Good video, Brother. Good video.
Check your local area. There's a couple GMRS repeaters near me. There are far more ham repeaters, and some of them are linked up to go quite a long ways. Both options are good.
I've heard there are modifications that allow these to be charged via portable solar panels, could you show a setup like this and what wattage solar panel it would require?
I've done it and it's a good beginning electronics project. You need a 5 V voltage regulator chip such as a 7805 two capacitors and a piece of perforated circuit board. Its a 3 pin chip and very easy to setup. Almost any solar panel will work (most are 12 V) as it would just take longer with a smaller output. You do not need a fancy solar charge controller used in more complex setups. The battery controller is in the radio, just like your phone has one. The wall adapter unit just provides some semi regulated DC current. You need the voltage regulation, b/c when the radio is done charging, it looks like an open circuit. The open circuit voltage on most 12 voltage panels is 24 VDC and you'll destroy your radio.
The 1st comment has good info but you just need a cheap buck converter if you want to skip making your own circuit board. If your solar panel is 12V you need to buck it down to USB levels (non fast charge standard is 3A/5V). Keep in mind that electronics do not like varying power levels so every time a cloud blocks the sun you are risking your device. Best method is use solar to charge a power bank then plug the radio into the power bank so the power level stays constant. Since you can easily get folding panels that have built in USB plugs, it really makes no sense to build circuitry. All you need is a panel over 20 watts and a small power bank and you are all set
Most GMRS repeaters still will require you to know how to program your radio. Most use PL Tones (aka CTCSS tones) that need to be programmed into your radio before the repeater will retransmit your signal. It’s easy enough to do but even the GMRS Baofeng isn’t fully plug and play where repeater are concerned. It’s just something a person needs to know in order to use a repeater. Other than that I’d agree that GMRS is plus and play. One thing to note is that if you live in an urban area, be prepared to hear a lot of kids and adults alike using FRS radios. In my area I hear shop workers, hotel staff, road crews, day care facilities and kids and families using FRS radios as I drive around town. If you are trying to scan for activity on repeaters just know that the radio will stop on a lot of non repeater activity because they share frequencies with FRS radios as well.
"𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘳𝘣𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢, 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘴. 𝘐𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢 𝘐 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘧𝘧, 𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘸𝘴, 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯." During and after Hurricane Sandy I was staying at my GF's place on high ground overlooking the Hudson river. On the simplex channels I heard tons of what were likely FRS radios or the old combo FRS/GMRS radios. Now that I live in a pretty rural area of PA, and have my own repeater with good coverage, I don't really use the simplex channels. I will set my radios to scan the simplex frequencies when out camping mainly because it's a good way to know when someone is around.
I like the 8r myself cause it covers both of these.. it’s for emergencies only so I don’t care about over powering the common Channels.. handy where I am during hurricane season as I can listen to most of the emergency service crews and dispatch and know what’s going on and where for cleanup help etc..
I have a Mobile unit (ANYTONE 778UV) in my Offroad rig not only for GMRS/FRS/MURS but i also have an AM/FM CB With the upper and Lower Sidebands. (President Grant II ) Then i also have a bunch of Baofengs for hand helds. CB does still come in handy sometimes.
I don’t know how I missed this video a year ago. I’d been looking into ham and was even starting to study for the test. But I just recently learned about GMRS. As in, within the last week or 2. I’d heard the acronym before but thought it was something to do with ham. I got my GMRS license the other day. It is $35 now. But man that website is a pain in the ass. My radios come in tomorrow. I’m pretty excited to get started. A few line minded friends of mine got theirs too.
Good stuff, as usual. Actually, getting a ham license is not that hard everywhere. There are Volunteer Examiners who will help you get a Technician license in 1 day. You print out the test questions ahead of time, usually thru a link the Examiner will provide. They have the multiple choice answers with the question. You can read the Q&As ahead of time. My Examiner set us up with a test site where he gave us 1-hour intervals in which we read thru the Q&A as many times as we could,absorbing what we could. I managed 3 or 4 times. Broke for lunch. Took the test using short memory. He graded it, I passed, and he recorded my Pass with FCC. There’s a little registration stuff to do on line. About 4 days later I had my call sign, and was able to go on the air, LL within 1 week. That me me legal. Opens up lots more possibilities. Is getting GMRS easier? Yes, but not by enough to forego the Ham license. And you can still get the GMRS for whatever the current fee is, which is $70. It was taking too long to find it, so I used your amount. That license entitles (I hate that word!) you AND your immediate family to use GMRS channels. Where did you get the pre-programmed radio, and what exact model is it. Think I’ll get one to go with my Ham gear. Thanks again.
Questions 1. any eternal wire to an antenna option for these? 2. battery life and distance in forest hill areas 3. any armor or waterproof case options? 4. best place to buy Both of these? thanks and my you and yours be in health and prosper even as your souls prosper
Does the repeater have to be on top of the mountain to reach the other side? Or will the extra power and larger antenna work to get over it? I live in a valley with large hills on each side of me and a couple miles after on both sides are mountains too. Cellphones don't work in this area. It sure would be nice to reach at least the other side of the hills. The hills themselves belong to the government so putting something on top of them is out of the question.
I think the Ham is better because, you'll talk to more people who are smarter because they were willing to go that extra mile for the license. knowledge is power.
Most go a half mile.... they just memorize questions.... literally... there's 350 questions and you get tested on 35, so you just memorize the high points with a booklet and go take your test. Most go the exta mile because it's a hobby for them, not because "getting a license".
"𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦" In an emergency I want to talk to someone local with skills relative to the problem at hand rather than some random septuagenarian who can expound on the minutia of ohms law and how to build an 80m EFHW interlaced between complaints about about his swollen prostate.
In my view the technician test isn’t that difficult to pass to use vhf uhf amateur bands. Getting used to your radio as a hobby helps you know how to use it in an emergency. Being able to talk at 50w and having a mobile radio in a off road vehicle makes a big difference when you need to get out with some power. Using a configuration cable and software like Chirp makes programming pretty simple. My advice is to take some time to pass the technician test. I think GMRS is good too if your friends and family dont have licenses it is then possible to communicate with non ham operators on a car trip or hunting trip for example. The reason licensing is important on ham radios is they are capable of transmitting on frequencies that could interfere with law enforcement, firefighters, aircraft, military, commercial. So the FCC wants people well trained to eliminate unintended or intended interference. Both radios have their place in my view. I have my technician license but plan to pay for a gmrs license too and by some inexpensive gmrs radios.
I really doubt the FCC is driving around looking for people transmitting on GMRS without a family license. Also, in a true SHTF don't count on repeaters being operational for long.
Question from a total radio noob: Would either of these radios (either out of the box, or programmed to do so) allow me to scan police/emergency frequencies, receive AM/FM radio, and get NOAA weather information?
How about batteries though. Does it take batteries? If you run out hlw will you power it easily. Power bank i suppose that i rather carry batteries and would come to find them more than power maybe.
This is a setup.. I went to your Amazon link, your trying to get us patriots banged up with that uv-5r .. it comes with a LARGE CAPACITY battery, not falling for that 1.. probly has a bump holster too... HAHA great vid bro, LGB
GMRS repeaters are not all open. Most of them have a transmit frequency. If you have your license (ugh) there are sites you can sign up for to gain access to these codes. GMRS repeaters are all privately owned.
As a licensed ham I really want to GMRS grow and see many more people on GMRS. As far as getting my ham license with Ham Radio Prep from start to getting my call sign was 7 days. I also want to see CB grow all radio communications are important.
gmrs require repeaters, grid down alot of repeaters down ham using repeaters same. so it would seem to me the move to having to use repeaters to function looks alot like a funnel to not be able to communicate. am i wrong?
LMAO Randy you are ONE funny mother rucker! ("Government licensed" amateur radio ham op here!) and YES, we _LOVE RADIO_ and more importantly _helping others_ learn "the ART of radio!" "Art" takes some practice! Just like one doesn't 'wake up' one day and decide to ruck 10+ miles, good radio takes some practice AND experimentation to make things work. The UV-5R are a "gateway drug"! Sick of the POS blister pack 0.5 watt FRS radios for hunting where I'm at (with well over a mile between users...) I got a few 8w UV-5R radios only to find you need a LICENSE to use them. Down the rabbit hole we dove... Add a "Super Elastic Signal Stick" antenna and we've been able to talk EIGHT MILES APART between those two 8w UV-5R radios and with a big collinear antenna I hung in a tree I made a 30 mile contact using _scrap_ materials for an antenna! Super Elastic Signal stick antennas are the HIGHEST dB gain (1/4 wave size) antennas available for handheld radios I've _ever_ seen! Plus they're made of a Titanium alloy that's damn nigh "indestructible" with a lifetime warranty IF you do manage to find a way to wreck one! I've got four 8w UV-5R radios in current rotation and all use those antennas...
Ham license is free but you have to pay the testing organization to take the tests. It's reasonably cheap though and not hard to get a technician or general license. Three levels of licensing, tech, general and amateur extra.
You can be blocked on any repeater if the owner (most are privately or club owned) uses ctss or digital tones. Without the proper tone, you can hear the repeater but not use it to transmit. A club or privately owned repeater can be private under FCC rules.
GMRS shares frequencies with FRS so it is free to use. The license is to use a high power radio set. From .5 Watts for commercial walkie talkies up to 50watts for a mobile GMRS.
"𝘎𝘔𝘙𝘚 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘴𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘴𝘦." No. If the radio has a removable antenna, has the capability to transmit wide band or on the repeater input frequencies legally it requires a license. It doesn't matter if it puts out 0.5w or 50w. Only radios with a Part 95B type acceptance grant are license free. Part 95B dictates 2w/0.5w narrow band with only 22 channels and fixed antennas.
Senior here. Had a ham hand held, but confusing to operate. Living rule wooded area, so don’t get good signal on anything. Looking for a simple radio to use in emergency, that’s easy to use. Open for comms ideas . Talking to a low tec person here though, so keep it simple please. Not looking to pay for licence
Why is the 5r locked to a Ham license only? Wattage? The 5r is only a 5 watt radio right? GMRS allows up to 50 watts power , no? So what’s the limiting factor
Waiting to see how long it takes for Josh from Ham Radio Crash Course to comment and get pinned lol. The Boafeng UV-5r is probably the best bang for your buck radio, its a good entry level model too. It doesn't have nearly as clear of receiving or transmitting as many others do, but those are also 4 times + more expensive. If you need good transmission/reception clarity than get something else (Yaesu is good value for a step up here), but the uv-5r is still great to have on hand as either a back up or beater HT. And for anyone who doesn't know, listening doesnt require a license so you can learn a lot just by doing that. Also if any Karen's did try and find you to get you in trouble for transmitting without a license, if you're not doing it from a place tied to you specifically (like your home) than it would be incredibly difficult to pin unlicensed transmissions on a single person with enough certainty for the FCC to issue a fine.
@@GruntProof I mean if they suspected it was you than for the Karen's sake they probably wouldn't stop at the FBI, they might send the CIATFBI and have a party, maybe even invite their blue helmet step cousins 🤣
@Inventor Lee Wheelbarger I know of plenty of others that are far worse than the boafeng. And if SHTF (and radios still work) than your local area is a much higher priority than across the country or even state. Sure Id want something better, but the boafeng will work, and the investment price to get into AR is far more appealing to people not doing it for the hobby. Like it or not Boafeng has made a gateway radio for the hobby.
@Inventor Lee Wheelbarger I've personally purchased more than you and had hands on with numerous others, all of them worked fine so far. The only hiccups were in settings programmed by the user or a crappy antenna (which is the first thing I swap and recommend to others to do likewise). Even with the propper antenna pairing yu can still get 3 radios for the price of the next cheapest that I'd recommend so, yeah like you said they are very appealing and a good option to people who don't have loads of cash to spend or want to dip their toes into AR before committing to a license and higher quality station or HT. If you're looking for a better model that is still fairly inexpensive but gives good quality (not great but still solid) I would recommend you check out the Yaesu FT-65R, its a reputable brand and should do better for you than the Baofengs. Either way I would still recommend looking into better antennas based on your planned use.
So I am looking to pick up a pair of the GMRS radios. I see 5 G Pro model available. I think it just has a larger battery but not real sure. Would this model still be preprogrammed like you spoke about? Sorry but this 73 year old knows absolutely nothing about these things and want something that my wife and I can use. Thanks for helping. ⚓️🇺🇸
It would be nice to have the links for the different radios you were talking about to make a good purchase decision and the price points for the different license requirements
A couple of things to note. 2:45 Without an internet connection, and even with repeaters, VHF/UHF amateur radio handhelds won't talk around the world. That takes 80m HF or lower frequencies for any kind of reliability. Sure 11m CB can 'skip' several states or countries away but it's not reliable for EMCOMM(though a fun hobby). Simplex range of a UV-5R is no better than any similar GMRS handheld radio(strictly line of sight). Hams just got all the good repeater locations first and most of the others were snatched up by public safety or telecom companies. 3:29 (legal)GMRS radios do not include the 5 MURS channels. That is a different service entirely, operating in the VHF band at 2w, and requires radios with their own FCC type acceptance(95J). There are also no more 'FRS channels' either. As of 2017 all 22 simplex channels are shared between FRS and GMRS. The type of radio, not the channel or power output, dictates whether a license is required. FRS and GMRS users CAN legally communicate with each other on any of those 22 simplex channels though. 4:04 You will still need to know the TX/RX CTCSS or DCS tones for most GMRS repeaters. Even the majority of 'open' GMRS repeaters use tones to open and to eliminate simplex traffic on the outputs. You are also required to have permission from the owner before using a GMRS repeater. 5:05 GMRS repeaters are NOT all open. Whether they are or not is solely at the discretion of the owner. Many of the GMRS repeaters on repeaterbook or MyGMRS are listed as private/permission required. The LDS church in SLC has the last remaining corporate GMRS license and I can assure you theirs is a private repeater. Because they licensed a specific repeater pair back in the 80's or earlier, they have priority use of that pair within a certain area as well. 5:23 Go to a small city, or worse yet a large city, and find a weak signal with a UV-5R. Now tune a Yaesu, Icon, Kenwood or even a Wouxun to that same frequency and you will quickly see why those radios cost more. The receive side of UV-5r's is easily overloaded and 'upgrading' the antenna usually makes it worse. By all means get them and learn to use them. There's nothing wrong with a few extra cheap radios laying around(I have multiple just in case), or if that's all you can afford. If it's in the budget though, seriously try a better radio. You will not be disappointed. 8:28 For simplex between a pair of GMRS handhelds, short range between a handheld and a mobile or short range mobile to mobile, it is best to stick to channels 1-7. You still get 5w but won't get stepped on by 50w mobiles, bases or repeater outputs. 1-7 are a level playing field. If you're using a 5w handheld on channel 18 within a few miles of a repeater like mine, which puts 25-40w into a 6dbi antenna(100-160w ERP), nobody is going to hear you over the repeater. Your 5w transmission isn't even a mouse fart in a tornado. 9:37 Amps are not allowed on GMRS, whether it's a handheld, mobile, base or repeater. They aren't worth it anyway. 50w from a good antenna, even transmitting from the top of Mount Everest, will do all the distance possible on UHF frequencies. Hams work VHF/UHF satellite repeaters 200+ miles above the earth with 5w handhelds. A side note on GMRS power limits: Handhelds are limited to 5w max(ERP on 1-7 and transmitter power on 15-22 & repeater inputs). Mobiles and bases are limited to 5w ERP on 1-7 or 50w transmitter power on 15-22 and repeater inputs. Only handhelds are allowed on 8-14 at 0.5w ERP narrow band. The biggest advantage of GMRS, as you noted, is that a single cheap license covers almost an entire family(oddly not cousins though). Those family members don't have to live with you. Once you recover from figuring out the FCC website and everything is processed, it takes 5 minutes to explain the operation of a radio to family members before you are on the air. Also, if you have the terrain or access to a good location for a repeater like I did, they are not very expensive to set up. Before adding solar and upgrading from AGM to lithium batteries for mine, total cost was about $800(including a $300 antenna). My repeater provides coverage over roughly 600 square miles. It easily allows my parents to reach me 20 miles away when winter storms knock out the phone lines, or from most of the cell dead zones between their home and my place. Current prices will be a bit higher than 6 years ago but with some patience the components can still be found pretty cheap on FleaBay or Marketplace. Unfortunately, a truly great advantage of GMRS is disappearing as the service is being invaded by sad hams. I recently stumbled across a video by someone who has had their tech level ham and GMRS licenses for a whole 3 years. They decided to take it upon themself to educate people on "Proper GMRS etiquette" including how to run nets and round tables. GTFOH with that. It's a service primarily intended for short to medium distance family recreational/community use, not another set of frequencies for hams to play wannabe FCC enforcement on or tell us we're radioing wrong.
As a ham I can tell you that if it goes sideways I’m going to use whatever tools I have at my disposal. Getting licensed is not that hard at all and teaches you what tool will work best in your scenario. Never rule out good old CB. If it can give you a handfull of miles range it can give you warning minutes in advance or save a life. Staying away from any cellular device is my advise in a sideways scenario. What ever you chose know how it works and practice with your family or team so your proficient in an emergency.
Anyone with more knowledge than me please correct me, but I believe the UV5R will handle all frequencies that GMRS and FMRS operate on. If this is the case, wouldn't it be the best radio as it can cover usage a HAM and GMRS freq?
WHATEVER YOU DO DONT HOLD PTT, VFO, AND THEN TURN ON THE RADIO FOR A FACTORY RESET, EXPANDING THE FREQUENCIES TO INCLUDE FRS GMRS, ETC. DON'T DO THAT.
🍻
Ok I won’t
Or you just buy the 8r and program all of them in 😅.
I’m still learning how to use UV5r
I see what you did there.😉
Holly cow. I actually understood what this guy said for once. I have listened to other people on you tube hundreds of times. But I could not "get it" this guy boils it down to an art. Thank you, Sir, for your articulate knowledge. I am going to start with getting my GMRS right now!! EXCELLENT JOB!!!! WELL DONE!!!
Terrible advice. GMRS only covers a micro slice of frequencies which I could easily jam if I needed to. All emergency services use vhf/uhf so gmrs is useless. The average user can't pick up an fm radio and make any sense of how it works so the hour required to scan the info and another to take the test is invaluable info NEEDED in an emergency. I'm just an old spec forces guy with zero gmrs but all 3 ham licenses and an all mode/ all band 100w station w/satellite tennas just in case running on solar from the rv but sure, keep that $30 gmrs toy for your "safety".
Semper fi
Just got the GMRS license it's currently $35 for 10 years. 🤘
Where do you find it on the FCC website. I looked and couldn't find it anywhere.
@@titanno7 Oh the Website is a joke (Federal Govt... 😆) There are a few step by step guides out there just look it up. Not sure if I can post Website/links here.
Now they know to stop you when they shut down communication..
@titanno7 That in itself is a complete ordeal...
You must create an account, request a FRN, link your FRN, go to their "streamlined" licensing page, pay uncle daddy to use your free speech and POW you are g2g
Just study for a couple weeks and get your Tech license. That’s what I just did. $15 for the test and $35 for the FCC call sign. And that’s good for 10 years as well. Way more capable frequencies.
I have both a ham and a GMRS license. Different tools for different jobs as I see it. Ham radio is way more capable in general. More repeaters, morn operators, more bands, APRS, all of that good stuff. The downside is that the license only covers me. I run GMRS when I'm out with my family. I love the fact that once license covers them all. I just hand my wife and my daughter radios and were good to go. When I'm out solo, I run ham radio (with APRS). Again, different tools for different jobs.
can you use Baofeng UV5Rs on GMRS frequencies with a HAM license? Or not at all?
@@GruntProof Not legally. They definitely have the ability to transmit on GMRS, MURS, etc... But they're not type certified to transmit in those bands. That being said, I don't think anyone is going to know (or care) if you're using one on GMRS/MURS
@@GruntProof not legally like the other guy said, but the FCC has never once in its entire existence prosecuted anyone for using the 'wrong' radio. People do it all the time and as long as you follow the rules, etiquette, and are licensed for the frequencies you are broadcasting on there will be no issues.
I have both licenses.
GMRS is probably what most of the family and group will use for camping/outdoors/SHTF.
Ham radio has allowed me to get further into the fine tuning, repair, and experimentation of comms. Which I cannot lie, will be beneficial if we have to build our own stuff.
Thanks for the video, and Godspeed!
I have FRS, GMRS, MURS, Ham, Public Service, etc. capabilities in the VHF/UHF realm; also capable in HF using various spectra. In case of emergency/SHTF scenario, I transmit on whatever gets me the outcome I desire - the bureaucrats can try to go after me later...
In an emergency it is LEGAL to use these frequencies. So nobody will be coming after you.
@@MsRotorwingsDoesn't the MARS program specifically promote the ability to transmit on as many frequencies as the equipment is capable of for Mil/Civ connectivity and emergencies?
I know I am going to draw some fire for this. A Ham radio modified to work on GMRS as well as Ham. In a full blown SHTF situation, Laws will have no meaning.
@@xc8487 I'm not sure. As I understand the rules, A Ham operator with a MARS License CAN Own an HT or Mobile VHF/UHF Radio that has been TX Modified. However it is my understanding that those frequencies can only be used during an actual MARS activity or Net.
I know everybody hates the rules...so do I sometimes...but if nobody gave a crap then nobody could talk because it would be chaos with chatter across all spectrums and all frequencies all of the time. If everybody follows the rules then we can all enjoy the relative calm it brings. Then, in a SHTF scenario you can go crazy and do whatever is needed. This is the way.
Very good. Radio telephone communications was part of my rating when I was active duty Navy some 40 years ago. When I first got my HAM license in 2000 you paid the FCC $10 after you passed the test to get your license. They mailed you a hard copy of your license. When I renewed in 2010 there was no charge. They e-mailed you a digital copy of your license you could print yourself. I upgraded to general class in 2017 and renewed in 2020 again at no charge. The control of the radio frequency spectrum is international as opposed to just the USA. Every form of communication in the radio frequency spectrum is assigned to the various users: TV, AM and FM radio, HAM, police, fire, military, etc. This is to prevent interference among users. You don't want to hear a HAM operator bleeding over onto your favorite rock radio station because they share the same freqs. In addition, military and public safety entities have gone to using encrypted software on their communications freqs to prevent eavesdropping. The first Baofengs in the USA had frequencies programmed into them that HAM operators weren't authorized to use. In other words thay had the capability for 2 way communications on freqs assigned to other users. HAM radios made by Japanese companies (Yaesu, ICom, Alinco, Kenwood) would allow you to listen to freqs "out of band" but could only transmit on the assigned HAM frequencies. I think the government now requires Baofengs to comply with FCC regs and transmit only on assigned HAM frequencies. I apologize for the long windedness. Hope this helps. Maybe a more experienced HAM could correct any inaccuracies.
As a person will little to no knowledge in this field, your post was very helpful. Thanks!
Isn't that possible to do some reprogram/hack to unlock and listen to the blocked frequencies in the new baufengs?
You got it James!
The are ham repeaters everywhere. Almost no gmrs repeaters in many areas. I studied the ham material and was ready to test in a week. The developed knowledge is well worth it.
Without having to study for the ham license, and without regulations in place a lot of people would be juicing up signals way beyond what is allowed. The airwaves would be full of idiots making animal noises and farting into the microphone at 5000 watts. What will that pesky government do next? Require study, and tests for licenses to drive cars, fly airplanes, perform surgery…
It is definitely time to double down on food and water preps guys! Happy to offer help and advice if needed👍
What do you suggest getting radio wise. I wasn’t looking to cheap out. Something for me and my wife/kids and possibly my neighbors. I live in a normal surburban type neighborhood kind of
@@AttackYakChaos Personally I have a pair of 8W UV-5R. I am in Germany and find I can receive from numerous surrounding countries which is ideal in case of SHTF.
@@AttackYakChaos GMRS is supposed to be only for family members (according to their rules). So, neighbors would have to get their own GMRS HT's and license. Baofeng and Wouxun are good reliable radios.
What is your advice on water and food prep and what brand(s) GMRS radio do you recommend. I also live in suburbs (outside Chicago) and I’m looking to get prepared with comms and food and water. Please advise. Thank you.
Get both . If SHTF you won’t be concerned with a license. If one radio does not work the other may . I’m a licensed ham radio operator.
I like your advice. What is the range of the GMRS? HAM? Probably depends on the repeaters, but what is the best case scenario? I haven't heard an answer to this, it's all very intriguing.
@@SteveTraftonI have picked up guys 150-250 miles away using GMRS repeaters in neighboring states
@@SteveTrafton without repeaters those handheld radios might get a mile in suburban or wooded areas, maybe 3 or more in you are on a hill with zero obstructions between you and the receiver. I had to go to a 50 watt truck mounted unit to somewhat reliably reach 10 miles.
With repeaters you could reach much further, across states or even different coutries.
Why would you carry both, that makes no sense. You can program a UV-5R to operate on GMRS/MURS/NOAA/Marine. And you can operate on ANY frequency in an emergency. As far as getting a GMRS license (I have one just because I wish to use GMRS repeaters) 12 year old airsofters and paintball players have been using the UV-5R on GMRS without a license for years: No one from the FCC is coming to saying freeze, put the radio on the deck and take 5 steps back.
@@paulrotledge9276 you are absolutely correct. No one really cares but the ham radio operator guys! Good lord they want your call sign
I am brand new to the gmrs community, an old trucker who trying to catch up with technology, I appreciate your information, you are much better than some of the arrogant experts on her. Again thank you
Appreciate this, some times a breakdown like this helps us newbies out before we start spending way to much for no reason.
Do we really care about a licence when the government declares martial law and SHTF?if we no longer have rights after martial law, then i don't care to comply with any regulation
Yup same here.
In a declared emergency the requirement of a license to use ham is not required if I recall correctly.
Fuck regulations we're all ready... I mean we're all here watching this shit ready....
In declared the emergency only licensed hams will be operating
That’s the purpose for them to get their license to be the ones operating during an emergency
Yes. And use your blinkers. Complete stops at Stop signs. Fold your socks.
Hi. Interesting video and I have to admit over the years I've spent a few pounds on Boafang radios from the little 3-watt versions, UV5, and my favorite, the waterproof versions. These have proved tough on walks on Exmoor and Dartmoor. One slipped down a hill, hit a rock, and then went into a stream Took 5 minutes to get down and recover it. It proved to be waterproof and still works. The batteries are good too, never had an issue and I have also found the standard antennas aren't bad at all.
I'm currently trying to learn morse, attracted to 5 watts CW being approx equivalent to 70 -100 watts SSB or VHF/UHF and combining it with different portable antenna setups for operating Near Vertical Incidence Skywave. I've just got myself a little (Tru) SDX for that. Experimenting with radio is fun. Trying to get the new kit passed my wife can be daunting though. Thanks for the video, enjoyed it.
By the way, we don't use the term Karen here, think it's rude. We call them wankers. Cheers.
Wankers i like it, in videos I heard tossers I use both in the states most have no clue what I'm referring to LOL
Isn’t a wanker someone who spends their lives “feeding the chucks”?
@@oldtrooper8320 They're also known as "Officers" in Australia, NZ & UK 😆
I have a Ham licence but rarely use it to talk. In an emergency it will be 100 times more important to be able to listen to what is going on then to be able to talk. Talking may actually put you at risk or make you a target. Unless of course you are just lost in the woods or something. GMRS is fine for local communications. That being said, getting a Ham licence is not as complex as you seem to think and it is an opportunity to learn more about how your radio works and the best way to get the most out of it. People should also consider getting a shortwave receiver rig. They aren't that expensive anymore and they can come in handy. A good CB with a proper antenna, particularly an export rig can also make a great addition to your emergency kit.
thanks!
I have a Kaito 1103 receiver. About the size of a paperback and uses 4 AA batteries. I use rechargeable and I can recharge inside the radio. I can listen to shortwave from Aussie BBC to east Coast USA, and down into Central America easily. Just don’t lose the manual for this particular radio. The logo on the controls confounds my brain. There are other easier to use radios but this is an excellent receiver with high sensitivity. Cost me about $100. Grundig/Eton make good radios too. Sony too. Expect to pay more for them.
@@mccoyburgess844 I do wish for more English content
The best investment for those is a aftermarket antenna.Not expensive but will make a difference. make sure it has the SMA male connection. diamond, nagoya are some of the top brands
Post here for more on COMMS!
I've been looking at getting the HAM license. Just need time...
What kind of ranges can we get out of the GMRS radio that your showed us?
Hey Randall, just to add my 2 cents. It's also dependant on if you are alone or a family etc. For HAM radio EVERYBODY has to have a licence, so for a family it's best to at least start with GMRS. Now if you are really interested in survival and being prepared then, at least have one member who's licensed and then he/she can get to use other bands and frequencies (and more power). That person can program their Baofeng to HAM repeaters AND GMRS, FRS etc and their single radio will be capable of both... If you have a fixed base location, as you do, this will also allow to reach out to find out what's going on and make contact over much greater distances even if you have no repeaters or they are down using satellite or HF (short wave) bands. That will cost more but has added benefits. For example since Russia invaded Ukraine it's been possible for some HAMS to find out what's really going on by speaking first hand to other HAMS there (even though they were not really supposed to use HAM radio due to state of emergency). Same recently with issues in CUBA.
If you want to get licensed in the USA the Tech license is not that hard in other countries it depends. But there are a ton of good channels here on YT to check . David Canterbury recently got licensed and has a few videos for example. Also check Josh Ham Radio Crash course, for all things HAM. Or Jason KM4ACK has a channel dedicated to prepared radio and has a lot on using radios to send data and emails too with no infrastructure what-so-ever, and lastly Julian OH8STN Ham Radio ex signals dude AFAIK.
For vehicles probably worth considering CB radio too as no need for licences and higher power too.
@@Dmac6969 Depends on conditions and terrain. In best case - line of site, mountain top to mountain top maybe 10-15 miles, but usually it's more likely just a couple miles. Buildings, trees, hills all make it difficult with the frequencies these operate on.
The vast amount of HAM radio information actually confuses the average person into not getting started with family & emergency comms. Simple breakdowns with a reasonable plan help regular folk adopt a COMMS plan for their local communities.
Thanks for the video. KUTGW
I love my UV 5R. I have much more expensive radios but that cheap little thing is fantastic and what I carry all the time. The HAM technician class is not that hard, but fun fact, even HAM licensee has to get a GMRS license too. I have both. I use GMRS for the family to communicate when camping, hunting, fishing where we have no cell service. I also still use CB when going down the highway. The Ham stuff is for fun and training for real world crises. I used my HAM radio to help spot storms coming through the area, and to report emergencies when in those same areas with no cell service but that have repeater coverage. Chirp software for the UV5R makes programming a breeze. For less than $25 you cannot go wrong.
Awesome info, brother. Real good education there. Thanks. I'll apply new knowledge.
We have a huge GMRS network here in GA called NGGMRS. There is a small fee (for tower maintenance etc) but very cheap. Covers most of the top half of GA.
I read that kind of fast😅😂😅😂
Do yall have signal as far south as LaGrange and West point Ga?
First of all, good job. You did give a fairly good overview. I will offer a different opinion. I am a Ham operator, and already programed in FRS, MURS, Both HAM simplex and repeater channels, as well as emergency channels, while disabling the ability to broadcast on emergency channels. Please note: the FRS and GMRS 22 channels main difference, is the allowed power output is higher for GMRS license holders. (Except chaneles 8-14 which are limited to .5 watt). The only thing not programed are the repeater channels for GMRS as that requires a license, GMRS repeaters are far rarer than HAM repeaters (2Meter). Being I can do almost everything Grunt PROOF can do with 2 handsets, with a single unit, for me this a preferred simplification. That Said, CB radios are surprisingly popular here, and I would suggest, if your area also has many CB users, you may want either a car, or handset for the CB. Aside from that My Bofang works great. If you want totally simplicity, consider a simple FRS radio, or a CB radio depending on your area, and needs.
I am into ham radio but I think the average person would be better off getting into gmrs. Boafang ( however it's spelled) is a fine beginners radio but I would definitely upgrade to a higher quality one at some point. Also consider getting a larger base station unit with a good antenna ( antennas are so much more important than people think) so you can reach out farther from your home if you have to bug in. But like all gear it is super important to practice with your radios. Learn their limits and quarks and what inexpensive upgrades you can do to make them more functional. If you are more technical get a ham radio license. The advantage with that is that you will be able to reach out beyond your 20 or so mile ( with a base station, 5 if you are lucky with a hand held ) region. You can also reach other countries, send and receive pictures, download weather satellite images, and get e mails. Also consider getting a inexpensive shortwave receiver. Since shtf in Ukraine the world has woken up the fact that letting world wide shortwave almost die out was a bad idea is starting to come back. It's a good way to get outside news and some form of entertainment. Also never forget about a decent weather radio.
How much $$$ are we talking about for a budget set up to get all this? I’m into CyberSec and coding and I wanna set up some sorta control station
@@MetaVizions I'm curious too
@@MetaVizions that baofang is about $26. Preteens pass the Technician test.
@@greenflagracing7067 The new Quansheng UV-K5 is US$15 and obliterates the Baofeng UV-5R.
I've got both 👍
Completely new to this, I'm fairly well prepped as is, but it's time for me to gain get a radio and the knowledge of comms. Thanks fpr this vid.
In both of my cars, 2003 F350 Dually and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee as well as my home I have all 3 (ham HTs, GMRS and CB). I think in terms of communications its a good practice to have all three... Not a requirement but good practice. Now, HTs (HAMs) can be opened or a MARS Cap modification that would allow you to transmit in an SHTF situation. In an emergency... I listen while I drive 99% of the time (on CB channel 9 and 19 and GMRS channel 16 ). Use GMRS when we go camping... In the car, when I am by myself, I scan on CB channel 9 (Emergency) and 19 (Trucker and Traffic info) for info ahead. Very useful and entertaining. Get something, communications is important and learn how to use your equipment no matter what you choose. During storms and hurricanes, I give lend a radio to each of my neighbors and we stay in communications... part of my preparedness plan...
Lol bonus points for using a sped up version of the Killer Instinct main theme for the intro music.
I would recommend the Baofeng UV-82HP over the UV-5x
Hey brother, I really enjoyed your video lots of great real world information And no BS. Please keep them coming
Radio is radio.
I’m a general ham operator, active AMRRON member and run a local net in Skagit county every Sunday 20:00 local time.
Please learn basic radio Net protocol and practice CH3:
CB3
GMRS 3
MURS 3
Learn how to participate in a radio net.
Checkins
Relay
And even lead a net.
Solid,simple info. Thanks Randall
A couple of points
The HAM test is more involved because of the maximum power you can use - 1500 watts for most things vs a few for non HAM frequencies.
The GMRS are all fully pre programmed because there are a very limited number of them and their offsets are fixed. For HAM the frequencies are unlimited and offsets are too, yes there are some gentlemen agreements on how to use but about anything can actually go.
As I got very involved in emergency HAM use one of the big things most people don’t do is practice, when an emergency is happening it’s not the time to pull out the manual. If you have to do that you are just part of the problem.
I've got both HAM and GMRS. I have all my GMRS and HAM repeaters programmed into one radio. I don't give a crap what the sad hams say. The FCC almost never does anything about anything unless its really heinous such as blocking emergency comms, or jamming someone's repeater or other stupid things. Plus, someone has to make a complaint. Once the complaint has been made, and if the FCC decides to take on the case, and they find you, you will get a strongly worded letter advising you to stop. If you don't stop, another strongly worded letter with a threat of fines and imprisonment will be sent. Then, maybe after that, you might catch a fine. The whole thing hinges upon some HAM Karen making a complaint. Good video, Brother. Good video.
Modern gestapo
@@GruntProof Exactly. Happy Christmas.
Sad ham? Define that...
Check your local area. There's a couple GMRS repeaters near me. There are far more ham repeaters, and some of them are linked up to go quite a long ways. Both options are good.
I've heard there are modifications that allow these to be charged via portable solar panels, could you show a setup like this and what wattage solar panel it would require?
I've done it and it's a good beginning electronics project. You need a 5 V voltage regulator chip such as a 7805 two capacitors and a piece of perforated circuit board. Its a 3 pin chip and very easy to setup.
Almost any solar panel will work (most are 12 V) as it would just take longer with a smaller output. You do not need a fancy solar charge controller used in more complex setups. The battery controller is in the radio, just like your phone has one. The wall adapter unit just provides some semi regulated DC current.
You need the voltage regulation, b/c when the radio is done charging, it looks like an open circuit. The open circuit voltage on most 12 voltage panels is 24 VDC and you'll destroy your radio.
The 1st comment has good info but you just need a cheap buck converter if you want to skip making your own circuit board. If your solar panel is 12V you need to buck it down to USB levels (non fast charge standard is 3A/5V). Keep in mind that electronics do not like varying power levels so every time a cloud blocks the sun you are risking your device. Best method is use solar to charge a power bank then plug the radio into the power bank so the power level stays constant. Since you can easily get folding panels that have built in USB plugs, it really makes no sense to build circuitry. All you need is a panel over 20 watts and a small power bank and you are all set
You’re not kidding about navigating a government website. I just got my license. But not without a lot of frustration.
@@mdupar
Took me 5 calls to FCC just to renew my ham ticket.
Most GMRS repeaters still will require you to know how to program your radio. Most use PL Tones (aka CTCSS tones) that need to be programmed into your radio before the repeater will retransmit your signal. It’s easy enough to do but even the GMRS Baofeng isn’t fully plug and play where repeater are concerned. It’s just something a person needs to know in order to use a repeater. Other than that I’d agree that GMRS is plus and play. One thing to note is that if you live in an urban area, be prepared to hear a lot of kids and adults alike using FRS radios. In my area I hear shop workers, hotel staff, road crews, day care facilities and kids and families using FRS radios as I drive around town. If you are trying to scan for activity on repeaters just know that the radio will stop on a lot of non repeater activity because they share frequencies with FRS radios as well.
"𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘳𝘣𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢, 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘴. 𝘐𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢 𝘐 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘧𝘧, 𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘸𝘴, 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯."
During and after Hurricane Sandy I was staying at my GF's place on high ground overlooking the Hudson river. On the simplex channels I heard tons of what were likely FRS radios or the old combo FRS/GMRS radios. Now that I live in a pretty rural area of PA, and have my own repeater with good coverage, I don't really use the simplex channels. I will set my radios to scan the simplex frequencies when out camping mainly because it's a good way to know when someone is around.
During 9/11 I had a ham buddy that was involved with emergency comms since everything was down due to the towers falling. Pretty cool
Yea I saw that all the time during hurricanes
Got two BTECH GMRS-V2 portable radios. They aren't HAM's but they're really good starter GMRS radios. It's a start at least, HAM licence next.
I like the 8r myself cause it covers both of these.. it’s for emergencies only so I don’t care about over powering the common Channels.. handy where I am during hurricane season as I can listen to most of the emergency service crews and dispatch and know what’s going on and where for cleanup help etc..
I have a Mobile unit (ANYTONE 778UV) in my Offroad rig not only for GMRS/FRS/MURS but i also have an AM/FM CB With the upper and Lower Sidebands. (President Grant II ) Then i also have a bunch of Baofengs for hand helds. CB does still come in handy sometimes.
I love these videos.....move, shoot, COMMUNICATE.
Unless I’m mistaken GMRS requires you to start, end, and at least once per 15 mins identify with your provided FCC call sign.
Lol sad hams mentioned at 11:24 lol I love my GMRS we a pretty big network in Houston and a lot new people to talk too. I’m also pretty new
Great presentation, confirmed my answers on GRMS and Ham. I am studying for my ham license, but buying my family GMRS radios. Thank you.
Pretty sure you can program a UV-5 to operate on open CB bands.
I don’t know how I missed this video a year ago. I’d been looking into ham and was even starting to study for the test. But I just recently learned about GMRS. As in, within the last week or 2. I’d heard the acronym before but thought it was something to do with ham. I got my GMRS license the other day. It is $35 now. But man that website is a pain in the ass. My radios come in tomorrow. I’m pretty excited to get started. A few line minded friends of mine got theirs too.
GMRS radio and an inReach is my combo. I can see the usefulness of a HAM tho.
Good stuff, as usual. Actually, getting a ham license is not that hard everywhere. There are Volunteer Examiners who will help you get a Technician license in 1 day. You print out the test questions ahead of time, usually thru a link the Examiner will provide. They have the multiple choice answers with the question. You can read the Q&As ahead of time. My Examiner set us up with a test site where he gave us 1-hour intervals in which we read thru the Q&A as many times as we could,absorbing what we could. I managed 3 or 4 times. Broke for lunch. Took the test using short memory. He graded it, I passed, and he recorded my Pass with FCC. There’s a little registration stuff to do on line. About 4 days later I had my call sign, and was able to go on the air, LL within 1 week. That me me legal. Opens up lots more possibilities. Is getting GMRS easier? Yes, but not by enough to forego the Ham license. And you can still get the GMRS for whatever the current fee is, which is $70. It was taking too long to find it, so I used your amount. That license entitles (I hate that word!) you AND your immediate family to use GMRS channels.
Where did you get the pre-programmed radio, and what exact model is it. Think I’ll get one to go with my Ham gear.
Thanks again.
Questions 1. any eternal wire to an antenna option for these? 2. battery life and distance in forest hill areas 3. any armor or waterproof case options? 4. best place to buy Both of these? thanks and my you and yours be in health and prosper even as your souls prosper
GMRS is growing everyday in my area especially with cell blackouts becoming a thing
Does the repeater have to be on top of the mountain to reach the other side? Or will the extra power and larger antenna work to get over it? I live in a valley with large hills on each side of me and a couple miles after on both sides are mountains too. Cellphones don't work in this area. It sure would be nice to reach at least the other side of the hills. The hills themselves belong to the government so putting something on top of them is out of the question.
Got my GMRS license a couple months ago
My uv-5r+ says it is also gets gmrs. What am I missing? This stuff is soooo confusing. HELP!
Someone mentioned HAM repeaters would be bombarded during an emergency & impossible to contact someone specific ie family member. Is this true?
Of course you can always just buy a CB citizen band radio and talk all you like, or whistle, or breath hard I've heard it all on CB.
I thought of getting back into CB but it's way more expensive for HTs and unfortunately have potty mouths and amplifiers......😮
Great info!! Thanks!!!
I think the Ham is better because, you'll talk to more people who are smarter because they were willing to go that extra mile for the license. knowledge is power.
Most go a half mile.... they just memorize questions.... literally... there's 350 questions and you get tested on 35, so you just memorize the high points with a booklet and go take your test. Most go the exta mile because it's a hobby for them, not because "getting a license".
"𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦"
In an emergency I want to talk to someone local with skills relative to the problem at hand rather than some random septuagenarian who can expound on the minutia of ohms law and how to build an 80m EFHW interlaced between complaints about about his swollen prostate.
My uv-5r says it is also gmts. What am I missing? This stuff is soooo confusing. HELP!
In my view the technician test isn’t that difficult to pass to use vhf uhf amateur bands. Getting used to your radio as a hobby helps you know how to use it in an emergency. Being able to talk at 50w and having a mobile radio in a off road vehicle makes a big difference when you need to get out with some power. Using a configuration cable and software like Chirp makes programming pretty simple. My advice is to take some time to pass the technician test. I think GMRS is good too if your friends and family dont have licenses it is then possible to communicate with non ham operators on a car trip or hunting trip for example. The reason licensing is important on ham radios is they are capable of transmitting on frequencies that could interfere with law enforcement, firefighters, aircraft, military, commercial. So the FCC wants people well trained to eliminate unintended or intended interference. Both radios have their place in my view. I have my technician license but plan to pay for a gmrs license too and by some inexpensive gmrs radios.
A good guy to follow, actually a GMRS guy, is NotaRubicon. Funny as hell and informative. Kinda like a deadpan version of your humor...
I agree...just started watching him to learn how to use my new UV-5R and love his channel!🙂
I really doubt the FCC is driving around looking for people transmitting on GMRS without a family license. Also, in a true SHTF don't count on repeaters being operational for long.
Question from a total radio noob: Would either of these radios (either out of the box, or programmed to do so) allow me to scan police/emergency frequencies, receive AM/FM radio, and get NOAA weather information?
How about batteries though. Does it take batteries? If you run out hlw will you power it easily. Power bank i suppose that i rather carry batteries and would come to find them more than power maybe.
This is the first channel that I have subscribed to. Great breakdown.
Great Intel Randall, comms along with food in survival mode put a human in win mode. 🇺🇸
With the program cable and CHIRP software, setting up the UV5R is a snap.
For ham radio license doesn't it say the FCC has to be allowed to check your system.
Hardly! Yaesu, Icom and Kenwood. Those are the brands serious hams use. Love your channel and enjoy your videos. Thanks for your service too.
I have one of each brand except Alinco. What I like about them is the 5 watts of high power to use if needed. The "fang" doesn't go up to 5 watts.
This is a setup.. I went to your Amazon link, your trying to get us patriots banged up with that uv-5r .. it comes with a LARGE CAPACITY battery, not falling for that 1.. probly has a bump holster too... HAHA great vid bro, LGB
He's just crankin away on that dial.
I like the uv9r its water resistant more powerful when needed and usbc regargable. It can also be unlocked
GMRS repeaters are not all open. Most of them have a transmit frequency. If you have your license (ugh) there are sites you can sign up for to gain access to these codes. GMRS repeaters are all privately owned.
As a licensed ham I really want to GMRS grow and see many more people on GMRS. As far as getting my ham license with Ham Radio Prep from start to getting my call sign was 7 days. I also want to see CB grow all radio communications are important.
I love it! Getting people into the radio world!
The ham radio technician license so easy to get and it will illiminate a lot of hassle.
Thank you for the video, sir. Nicely done.
What was the first radio? The ham radio? I couldn’t understand what you said and there’s not a link in the description
gmrs require repeaters, grid down alot of repeaters down ham using repeaters same. so it would seem to me the move to having to use repeaters to function looks alot like a funnel to not be able to communicate. am i wrong?
LMAO Randy you are ONE funny mother rucker! ("Government licensed" amateur radio ham op here!) and YES, we _LOVE RADIO_ and more importantly _helping others_ learn "the ART of radio!" "Art" takes some practice! Just like one doesn't 'wake up' one day and decide to ruck 10+ miles, good radio takes some practice AND experimentation to make things work.
The UV-5R are a "gateway drug"! Sick of the POS blister pack 0.5 watt FRS radios for hunting where I'm at (with well over a mile between users...) I got a few 8w UV-5R radios only to find you need a LICENSE to use them. Down the rabbit hole we dove... Add a "Super Elastic Signal Stick" antenna and we've been able to talk EIGHT MILES APART between those two 8w UV-5R radios and with a big collinear antenna I hung in a tree I made a 30 mile contact using _scrap_ materials for an antenna!
Super Elastic Signal stick antennas are the HIGHEST dB gain (1/4 wave size) antennas available for handheld radios I've _ever_ seen! Plus they're made of a Titanium alloy that's damn nigh "indestructible" with a lifetime warranty IF you do manage to find a way to wreck one! I've got four 8w UV-5R radios in current rotation and all use those antennas...
Ham license is free but you have to pay the testing organization to take the tests. It's reasonably cheap though and not hard to get a technician or general license. Three levels of licensing, tech, general and amateur extra.
A ham license now has a fee of $35 for 10 years.
I would have everyone get a UV5R for a SHTF situation and keep it in a your bag as emergency comms. For the 25 bucks it should be in all bags.
I applied for my GMRS yesterday. It was just $35, FYI. Thanks for this video.
Recently GMRS is starting to get popular in my area.
You can be blocked on any repeater if the owner (most are privately or club owned) uses ctss or digital tones. Without the proper tone, you can hear the repeater but not use it to transmit. A club or privately owned repeater can be private under FCC rules.
Most hams can show you how to scan for the tone.
GMRS shares frequencies with FRS so it is free to use. The license is to use a high power radio set. From .5 Watts for commercial walkie talkies up to 50watts for a mobile GMRS.
"𝘎𝘔𝘙𝘚 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘙𝘚 𝘴𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘴𝘦."
No. If the radio has a removable antenna, has the capability to transmit wide band or on the repeater input frequencies legally it requires a license. It doesn't matter if it puts out 0.5w or 50w. Only radios with a Part 95B type acceptance grant are license free. Part 95B dictates 2w/0.5w narrow band with only 22 channels and fixed antennas.
@@CzechSixTv you made my point for me. The license is for the radio.
I've talk to the space shuttle on my UV5R, I'm a licensed Ham radio operator.
What?! That's fuckkng sweet dude! Very cool
Cool.
When I got my HAM License in 1969 I had a hard written test and Morse Code at 35 WPM send and receive..
The highest WPM the FCC ever required was 20 WPM for the top license, what now is the Amateur Extra.
Novice was 5 wpm, General was 13 wpm. 20 wpm was for what is now the Extra Class. 35? Ummm No. Ham since 1967.
You can open up the 5R to do GMRS as well as HAM so you only need one radio.
Senior here. Had a ham hand held, but confusing to operate. Living rule wooded area, so don’t get good signal on anything. Looking for a simple radio to use in emergency, that’s easy to use. Open for comms ideas . Talking to a low tec person here though, so keep it simple please. Not looking to pay for licence
CB
Why is the 5r locked to a Ham license only? Wattage? The 5r is only a 5 watt radio right? GMRS allows up to 50 watts power , no? So what’s the limiting factor
Waiting to see how long it takes for Josh from Ham Radio Crash Course to comment and get pinned lol.
The Boafeng UV-5r is probably the best bang for your buck radio, its a good entry level model too. It doesn't have nearly as clear of receiving or transmitting as many others do, but those are also 4 times + more expensive. If you need good transmission/reception clarity than get something else (Yaesu is good value for a step up here), but the uv-5r is still great to have on hand as either a back up or beater HT.
And for anyone who doesn't know, listening doesnt require a license so you can learn a lot just by doing that.
Also if any Karen's did try and find you to get you in trouble for transmitting without a license, if you're not doing it from a place tied to you specifically (like your home) than it would be incredibly difficult to pin unlicensed transmissions on a single person with enough certainty for the FCC to issue a fine.
Dude the FBI will literally kick in your door 😂😂
@@GruntProof I mean if they suspected it was you than for the Karen's sake they probably wouldn't stop at the FBI, they might send the CIATFBI and have a party, maybe even invite their blue helmet step cousins 🤣
@Inventor Lee Wheelbarger I know of plenty of others that are far worse than the boafeng. And if SHTF (and radios still work) than your local area is a much higher priority than across the country or even state. Sure Id want something better, but the boafeng will work, and the investment price to get into AR is far more appealing to people not doing it for the hobby. Like it or not Boafeng has made a gateway radio for the hobby.
@Inventor Lee Wheelbarger …EXACTLY.
@Inventor Lee Wheelbarger I've personally purchased more than you and had hands on with numerous others, all of them worked fine so far. The only hiccups were in settings programmed by the user or a crappy antenna (which is the first thing I swap and recommend to others to do likewise). Even with the propper antenna pairing yu can still get 3 radios for the price of the next cheapest that I'd recommend so, yeah like you said they are very appealing and a good option to people who don't have loads of cash to spend or want to dip their toes into AR before committing to a license and higher quality station or HT.
If you're looking for a better model that is still fairly inexpensive but gives good quality (not great but still solid) I would recommend you check out the Yaesu FT-65R, its a reputable brand and should do better for you than the Baofengs. Either way I would still recommend looking into better antennas based on your planned use.
So I am looking to pick up a pair of the GMRS radios. I see 5 G Pro model available. I think it just has a larger battery but not real sure. Would this model still be preprogrammed like you spoke about? Sorry but this 73 year old knows absolutely nothing about these things and want something that my wife and I can use. Thanks for helping. ⚓️🇺🇸
It would be nice to have the links for the different radios you were talking about to make a good purchase decision and the price points for the different license requirements
I'm able to pick up HAM conversations with my old GE SW radio with a BFO...all they talk about is 'radio'...but they're worth a listen...
You can do a factory reset on the UV 5R so you can transmit in GMRS
Thank you for dumbing this down. You make more sense then the ham Karen’s who try use sarcasm that does work
In case of emergency, priority is to be heard. The greater the tx the better. Long distance is what matters.
A couple of things to note.
2:45 Without an internet connection, and even with repeaters, VHF/UHF amateur radio handhelds won't talk around the world. That takes 80m HF or lower frequencies for any kind of reliability. Sure 11m CB can 'skip' several states or countries away but it's not reliable for EMCOMM(though a fun hobby). Simplex range of a UV-5R is no better than any similar GMRS handheld radio(strictly line of sight). Hams just got all the good repeater locations first and most of the others were snatched up by public safety or telecom companies.
3:29 (legal)GMRS radios do not include the 5 MURS channels. That is a different service entirely, operating in the VHF band at 2w, and requires radios with their own FCC type acceptance(95J). There are also no more 'FRS channels' either. As of 2017 all 22 simplex channels are shared between FRS and GMRS. The type of radio, not the channel or power output, dictates whether a license is required. FRS and GMRS users CAN legally communicate with each other on any of those 22 simplex channels though.
4:04 You will still need to know the TX/RX CTCSS or DCS tones for most GMRS repeaters. Even the majority of 'open' GMRS repeaters use tones to open and to eliminate simplex traffic on the outputs. You are also required to have permission from the owner before using a GMRS repeater.
5:05 GMRS repeaters are NOT all open. Whether they are or not is solely at the discretion of the owner. Many of the GMRS repeaters on repeaterbook or MyGMRS are listed as private/permission required. The LDS church in SLC has the last remaining corporate GMRS license and I can assure you theirs is a private repeater. Because they licensed a specific repeater pair back in the 80's or earlier, they have priority use of that pair within a certain area as well.
5:23 Go to a small city, or worse yet a large city, and find a weak signal with a UV-5R. Now tune a Yaesu, Icon, Kenwood or even a Wouxun to that same frequency and you will quickly see why those radios cost more. The receive side of UV-5r's is easily overloaded and 'upgrading' the antenna usually makes it worse. By all means get them and learn to use them. There's nothing wrong with a few extra cheap radios laying around(I have multiple just in case), or if that's all you can afford. If it's in the budget though, seriously try a better radio. You will not be disappointed.
8:28 For simplex between a pair of GMRS handhelds, short range between a handheld and a mobile or short range mobile to mobile, it is best to stick to channels 1-7. You still get 5w but won't get stepped on by 50w mobiles, bases or repeater outputs. 1-7 are a level playing field. If you're using a 5w handheld on channel 18 within a few miles of a repeater like mine, which puts 25-40w into a 6dbi antenna(100-160w ERP), nobody is going to hear you over the repeater. Your 5w transmission isn't even a mouse fart in a tornado.
9:37 Amps are not allowed on GMRS, whether it's a handheld, mobile, base or repeater. They aren't worth it anyway. 50w from a good antenna, even transmitting from the top of Mount Everest, will do all the distance possible on UHF frequencies. Hams work VHF/UHF satellite repeaters 200+ miles above the earth with 5w handhelds. A side note on GMRS power limits: Handhelds are limited to 5w max(ERP on 1-7 and transmitter power on 15-22 & repeater inputs). Mobiles and bases are limited to 5w ERP on 1-7 or 50w transmitter power on 15-22 and repeater inputs. Only handhelds are allowed on 8-14 at 0.5w ERP narrow band.
The biggest advantage of GMRS, as you noted, is that a single cheap license covers almost an entire family(oddly not cousins though). Those family members don't have to live with you. Once you recover from figuring out the FCC website and everything is processed, it takes 5 minutes to explain the operation of a radio to family members before you are on the air.
Also, if you have the terrain or access to a good location for a repeater like I did, they are not very expensive to set up. Before adding solar and upgrading from AGM to lithium batteries for mine, total cost was about $800(including a $300 antenna). My repeater provides coverage over roughly 600 square miles. It easily allows my parents to reach me 20 miles away when winter storms knock out the phone lines, or from most of the cell dead zones between their home and my place. Current prices will be a bit higher than 6 years ago but with some patience the components can still be found pretty cheap on FleaBay or Marketplace.
Unfortunately, a truly great advantage of GMRS is disappearing as the service is being invaded by sad hams. I recently stumbled across a video by someone who has had their tech level ham and GMRS licenses for a whole 3 years. They decided to take it upon themself to educate people on "Proper GMRS etiquette" including how to run nets and round tables. GTFOH with that. It's a service primarily intended for short to medium distance family recreational/community use, not another set of frequencies for hams to play wannabe FCC enforcement on or tell us we're radioing wrong.
As a ham I can tell you that if it goes sideways I’m going to use whatever tools I have at my disposal. Getting licensed is not that hard at all and teaches you what tool will work best in your scenario. Never rule out good old CB. If it can give you a handfull of miles range it can give you warning minutes in advance or save a life. Staying away from any cellular device is my advise in a sideways scenario. What ever you chose know how it works and practice with your family or team so your proficient in an emergency.
I believe he referred to them as “Ham Karens”… guess you weren’t listening
Anyone with more knowledge than me please correct me, but I believe the UV5R will handle all frequencies that GMRS and FMRS operate on. If this is the case, wouldn't it be the best radio as it can cover usage a HAM and GMRS freq?
Will Swat really kick down doors or issue warrant over pushing the button without license?