I am a ham operator in wnc. I am a native and comms here on day one of Helene were so critical. This was an amazing video to breakdown basic comms and not complicate it.
28:00 he understated this point about directional RF signals. Here’s the punchline: If you can focus your RF signal towards friendly forces, you amplify your chances of making contact, AND you limit RF signals that propagate towards the enemy.
@@99cobra2881 I am looking to do what you recommended. I Don’t have a HAM license although that is the goal. I want to start out at GMRS to have alt comms with my wife. What are two GMRS radios you recommend that give me the most power output? I know GMRS is more limited in its function that HAM….but what’s the most punch I can get from a GMRS radio you’d recommend? I would be grateful for your input.
I'm a Ham operator and this is a great explanation of basic comms. We practice emergency comms on weekly training nets and monthly outings for portable setups. Nicely done guys! Look into the Tidradio H3. It is multiband.
Asheville res here. The different in knowledge, organization, and aid between people with $20 baufangs and those with no cell service was ASTONISHING. Buy it, learn it, and some knowledge is night and day better than none. Buy a radio, tune into ems dispatch. And LISTEN. thank me later.
It's encouraging to see squad communication talked about in terms of both military and civilian applications. Good point about delegating radio access to those trained to pass relevant information only. In the civilian world, I find that radios can be a really distracting toy.
FYI for everyone, Thin Line Defense Co has a video explaining budget to high end comms set ups. Dude is kind of annoying but it is an EXCELLENT video explaning different set ups, along with the pros and cons to each.
Very interesting correlation between military squad tactics and how the modern fire service works as well. It's almost a requirement that every firefighter has a radio now, not that everyone talks, but when things go wrong, that's when you want everyone to have one. Good coms discipline is a must though. Thanks for the video.
Baofeng with upgraded antenna and extended battery, code red speaker mic, amazon single ear earpiece is the best budget comms setup that I run now. Next level up that I have is a pair of Sordin Supreme Pro Xs and the CovertArms MultiMount Mic with a PTT.
So yes of course we want that video. My specific conditions are Connecticut. Hills, structures, and farmland. Newtown area. Three groups rendezvousing at one location then moving north into rural area. Idea of thought is if separated meeting on pre determined path, and monitoring other radios. Thanks great info.
YES, I would love to see that video, but also, a quick quip of... here's a UV-5 or 9r, and here is what you need to get it working with a set of COMTACs, and here's how to output to a cheaper pair of Sordin Supremes.
Just got my first set of UV5rs last week. Not part of a squad. And don’t have a group of dudes to larp with. I got them to listen to emergency channels and contact the wife in the case of an emergency
Good video. Training is going to be key. I work a lot of ham radio public service events, which are like mini civilian teams like you're talking about. Without training training training, we're going to end up with tons of guys using VOX and blowing the primary frequency out, things like that. There is definitely a "how to integrate the radio use into my kit" learning curve we might need to get over. Take care guys. Good vid.
This was very helpful as a customer of both companies. Yes, doing a video on ideal set-ups at different price points would be helpful. I tend to go high end as a civilian, but it would help to know other set-ups as well. Thank you.
I learned in the aftermath of a tornado that if your "squad", to use the videos term, has coms then each memeber is going to end up acting as a "squad leader" or at least radio operator with groups of people who don't have coms. And that a lot of folks will assume you're the gvt if you show up with a radio & even a foggy "image" of the surronding area.
Heck, I would argue that a baofeng uv-888s is a good way for people to get into comms. The cheap price allows easy entry. Get a ptt button and a 3.5 mm output, plug into your walker headset, and you have the poor mans Peltors.
So TLDR, no comms no bombs. Your not really important enough for anyone with the EW, SIGINT or decryption capabilities to give a shit about your radio traffic, if you are then your crypto is probably not gonna last long anyway?
@Disco32 You make some good points about Omni-Directional vs. Directional antennas. You have the knowledge, skills, experience and supplies to start making in house, US made, roll up J-Pole antennas. Make one for the 2M band, that someone could hoist up in a tree and get not only better range, but also using a directional antenna to cut down on Emissions. I'm not sure I would trust the ones I'm finding on Ebay, coming from Questionable origins, but I would definitely trust one coming from you.
Several younger people don't realize that when your phones, cell phones and the internet go down, you will need a ham radio to communicate with others.
Great info. My wife and I work disaster services and have been looking at comms for our side by sides. Our side by sides are on the loud side so hearing protection mixed with comms has been our big interest. Any input would be awesome!
Protip: UHF performs better than VHF in the woods, and in smoke. Trees/foliage/smoke impede on propagation more than people think it does. I say this as a Wildland Firefighter. Test your equipment. Rule of thumb doesn't always work as expected, even with 2500$+ radios.
@@Roborob12345 I also was a wildland firefighter for 5 years in the PNW, I'm a rural cop now, a SAR coordinator, and I'm a ham that likes to mess around with this type of radio. I have never found UHF to propagate farther in an outdoor setting than VHF. UHF seems to work better than VHF around structures and stuff that can bounce a signal around. Vegetation seems to stop UHF where VHF gets through trees and farther up and down valleys. Make sure the antenna you're using is resonant with the frequency you're using.
I carried my UV-5R and an Earmor headset while I was Rabbit hunting today. I checked in on a Ham repeater (so if some city-boy Deer hunter shot me maybe I could call for help). This is good info but you really shouldn't buy good radio gear until you join a group, and then get what they have.
I agree with most, but not the encryption. It's an issue of not having a good plan. If you are not able to have a new fill to different groups, you haven't planned enough. If you only make up a new fill after day 3, you failed to plan. Without encryption, EVERYONE will be able to hear what you say. So make sure you have your codewords in order and that they switch every (couple of) days. With encryption ONLY folks with the capabilities to de-encrypt will be able to hear what you say. Doesn't mean you don't need code words. I can now buy a DMR that is analog capable and AES256 capable for 230 euros. That's less then another loaded out (with pouches, not even one piece of gear) chest rig. It's basically you saying: "there are guys with AP rounds, don't wear plates because you're not that important."
UHF are better inside the city. VHF are better on flat ground , or 2 meter band, vs 70 CM. Use pig tail or small antennas in the squad. You will try your 🍇 trying to take in all the different information at once. Don’t be juicy. Except when you switch roles and you’re the plumber‼️ Feed them well. Comtac 6 headsets don’t be cheap you can talk at the squad level without using comms. 💀
I am a ham operator in wnc. I am a native and comms here on day one of Helene were so critical. This was an amazing video to breakdown basic comms and not complicate it.
Appreciate it
Good stuff dudes. Love y’all and disco32!
Keep your hands off!
I think I learned more about commo in 30 mins than I did in years in the Army. Great video!
I would guess you either didnt try or had some really bad units.
28:00 he understated this point about directional RF signals. Here’s the punchline: If you can focus your RF signal towards friendly forces, you amplify your chances of making contact, AND you limit RF signals that propagate towards the enemy.
New Spiritus AND DirtyCivilian video what an awesome Saturday
Also new orion training group video discussing radio stuff
I just thought the same thing lol
Yes
We need this more of this type of content . Still looking for a comm set up and I am overwhelmed with options
Thanks again
Get something and try it, test it with a buddy in your area
Learn about the equipment you have
Start somewhere, theres no wrong answer just start
@@99cobra2881 I am looking to do what you recommended. I
Don’t have a HAM license although that is the goal. I want to start out at GMRS to have alt comms with my wife.
What are two GMRS radios you recommend that give me the most power output? I know GMRS is more limited in its function that HAM….but what’s the most punch I can get from a GMRS radio you’d recommend?
I would be grateful for your input.
I remember when Disco 32 was the only shop making the durable PTT for the civs Kenwood, Yaseu radios.
Definitely bring Josh back on. He's a wealth of info for sure
I'm a Ham operator and this is a great explanation of basic comms. We practice emergency comms on weekly training nets and monthly outings for portable setups. Nicely done guys! Look into the Tidradio H3. It is multiband.
Asheville res here. The different in knowledge, organization, and aid between people with $20 baufangs and those with no cell service was ASTONISHING. Buy it, learn it, and some knowledge is night and day better than none.
Buy a radio, tune into ems dispatch. And LISTEN. thank me later.
People definitely underestimate the benefit of having even a cheap radio on hand
It's encouraging to see squad communication talked about in terms of both military and civilian applications. Good point about delegating radio access to those trained to pass relevant information only. In the civilian world, I find that radios can be a really distracting toy.
Yes, Please set that video up with Josh! Great content as always!
FYI for everyone, Thin Line Defense Co has a video explaining budget to high end comms set ups. Dude is kind of annoying but it is an EXCELLENT video explaning different set ups, along with the pros and cons to each.
Very interesting correlation between military squad tactics and how the modern fire service works as well. It's almost a requirement that every firefighter has a radio now, not that everyone talks, but when things go wrong, that's when you want everyone to have one. Good coms discipline is a must though. Thanks for the video.
Ending on an I Love You, Man quote is legendary
Let's see the video of gear at different price points!
Absolute banger timing with OTG video
What’s the OTG video 🙂
Orion training Group. Amazing guys@@SoldierBoii47
@@SoldierBoii47Orion Training Group also just put out a vid on comms
@@Operator_E nice thank you gonna watch it next
YES, want to see more with disco32
Baofeng with upgraded antenna and extended battery, code red speaker mic, amazon single ear earpiece is the best budget comms setup that I run now. Next level up that I have is a pair of Sordin Supreme Pro Xs and the CovertArms MultiMount Mic with a PTT.
So yes of course we want that video. My specific conditions are Connecticut. Hills, structures, and farmland. Newtown area. Three groups rendezvousing at one location then moving north into rural area. Idea of thought is if separated meeting on pre determined path, and monitoring other radios. Thanks great info.
Definitely wanna see that price point vid
PTT ASMR was definitely the key takeaway
YES, I would love to see that video, but also, a quick quip of... here's a UV-5 or 9r, and here is what you need to get it working with a set of COMTACs, and here's how to output to a cheaper pair of Sordin Supremes.
Oh all things preparedness I find comma/radios to be the most intimidating to fully dive into
I second this.
this is one of the best videos spiritus has ever done
Yes, I want to see more collab! And I want Disco to make guards for Baofangs so the mic button doesn’t get pressed constantly while in your kit.
Just got my first set of UV5rs last week. Not part of a squad. And don’t have a group of dudes to larp with. I got them to listen to emergency channels and contact the wife in the case of an emergency
Yes, I would like to see a video of comms at different price ranges
Good video. Training is going to be key. I work a lot of ham radio public service events, which are like mini civilian teams like you're talking about. Without training training training, we're going to end up with tons of guys using VOX and blowing the primary frequency out, things like that. There is definitely a "how to integrate the radio use into my kit" learning curve we might need to get over. Take care guys. Good vid.
I love disco 32 I've got a vest mounted antenna out for delivery now!
This was a fantastic, informative and funny video! I have lots of Disco32 gear and it is all top notch. Great content you guys
I don’t see many suggesting uv9r. $40 waterproof baofeng with a usb-c battery. It’s a no brainer.
It’s replacing my UV5Rs
Disco 32 is an excellent presenter, well spoken 🍻
love me some disco32
Same here
Do another video with them! Would love to see the setups he recommends.
Yeah, do the different price ranges. That would be cool!
When it comes to guerilla comms, less is more. Keep it simple, keep it covert, and keep it to as low traffic as you possibly can
This was very helpful as a customer of both companies. Yes, doing a video on ideal set-ups at different price points would be helpful. I tend to go high end as a civilian, but it would help to know other set-ups as well. Thank you.
Yeah, I'd like to see the video you mentioned at the end.
I learned in the aftermath of a tornado that if your "squad", to use the videos term, has coms then each memeber is going to end up acting as a "squad leader" or at least radio operator with groups of people who don't have coms.
And that a lot of folks will assume you're the gvt if you show up with a radio & even a foggy "image" of the surronding area.
Heck, I would argue that a baofeng uv-888s is a good way for people to get into comms. The cheap price allows easy entry. Get a ptt button and a 3.5 mm output, plug into your walker headset, and you have the poor mans Peltors.
A price point video would be cool.
Please do a price range video. Thanks for the information.
Great stuff! Super informative. Would love to hear what sort of stuff Josh would choose at different price ranges for different situations.
Excellent information gentlemen. Yes I would be interested in a follow up video on different levels of setups.
Nate
So TLDR, no comms no bombs. Your not really important enough for anyone with the EW, SIGINT or decryption capabilities to give a shit about your radio traffic, if you are then your crypto is probably not gonna last long anyway?
This pretty much covers it! 😂
“You[‘re] not really important enough for anyone with the EW, SIGINT or decryption capabilities to give a … about your radio traffic….”
AES256
@@scientiasapientiaveritas2486you’re* G@y
@@VoluntaryPlanetthis is the way
I got out in 2018 and still talk like an NCO, trust me I feel you 😂
Would be cool to see Josh do a video like that
@Disco32 You make some good points about Omni-Directional vs. Directional antennas. You have the knowledge, skills, experience and supplies to start making in house, US made, roll up J-Pole antennas. Make one for the 2M band, that someone could hoist up in a tree and get not only better range, but also using a directional antenna to cut down on Emissions. I'm not sure I would trust the ones I'm finding on Ebay, coming from Questionable origins, but I would definitely trust one coming from you.
I’d take another video with you guys in this. Good stuff.
Thank you guys!
He was on a LRS team. Those guys are squared away. An 18E told me a LRS guy got him through SUT.
Love to see the video you suggested!
seeing a price ranged based set up would be cool
Great stuff. I'm trying to dive into this so I have a good set up once I leave LE. Would love to see videos on radio usage, comms sec, etc.
The radio is for the platoon sergeant to talk with his squad leaders and first sergeant, and for the platoon leader to talk with the CO.
We originally had those positions in there, but decided to make it a little more simple for an easy to understand graphic.
Let's see that follow up video!
This was fantastic
Thanks!
Definitely would like to see that next video! Thanks for the good tips as always!
setups with price points would be a good topic to go over
Definitely want to see the price point video!
Please make a video with the different setup options!!
Me and my UV5R are good enough for communicating with my other UV5Rs
Do the pricepoint video. I’m looking to start mid tier. And I rock headgear for HOURS, it’ll be helmet based eventually.
22:54 the man the myth the legend , Jamsheed
Let's see the video of gear at different price points.
Hearing protection review will be nice.
Definitely want to see the price point vid
I would like to see that radio setup at certain price points... Start small and work up to max level.
Several younger people don't realize that when your phones, cell phones and the internet go down, you will need a ham radio to communicate with others.
A video I didn't even know I need.
Definitely another Video
Great info. My wife and I work disaster services and have been looking at comms for our side by sides. Our side by sides are on the loud side so hearing protection mixed with comms has been our big interest. Any input would be awesome!
Protip: UHF performs better than VHF in the woods, and in smoke. Trees/foliage/smoke impede on propagation more than people think it does. I say this as a Wildland Firefighter. Test your equipment. Rule of thumb doesn't always work as expected, even with 2500$+ radios.
Going to oppose you here and say that VHF works better at light barrier penetration than UHF. I say this as an armour officer.
@@Roborob12345 I also was a wildland firefighter for 5 years in the PNW, I'm a rural cop now, a SAR coordinator, and I'm a ham that likes to mess around with this type of radio. I have never found UHF to propagate farther in an outdoor setting than VHF. UHF seems to work better than VHF around structures and stuff that can bounce a signal around. Vegetation seems to stop UHF where VHF gets through trees and farther up and down valleys. Make sure the antenna you're using is resonant with the frequency you're using.
when is the 2nd video with Josh's optimal set ups at different price points?
I carried my UV-5R and an Earmor headset while I was Rabbit hunting today. I checked in on a Ham repeater (so if some city-boy Deer hunter shot me maybe I could call for help). This is good info but you really shouldn't buy good radio gear until you join a group, and then get what they have.
Krushin it as always!
Great video guys
Feng gang!!
Let’s see that next video
Yes need another video
In the market for a 2500, would love a set up video over that
Yall should have brought an expert in like this one to do the night vision video. And like how you have done for other topics as well
give us the ideal set up list
Awesome guys! Can I get platoon coms next, please?
Take this concept and scale it up to the next level and so on and so forth
Budget comms video please
can anyone pls make a list of the different radios which are shown?
Hot tip: Deploy AI jammers that spam garbage intel and cover your transmit locations if you plan to use DMR radios.
I want to see the price tier com setups
Awesome 😎
Make the price points video
Lots of digital voice & data options for licensed hams
Yes. Get a radio and someone who can program it
Or learn to program it yourself
I am looking to start out with GMRS for my wife and I. Does anyone have recommendation for the most punch in the GMRS line?
I agree with most, but not the encryption. It's an issue of not having a good plan. If you are not able to have a new fill to different groups, you haven't planned enough. If you only make up a new fill after day 3, you failed to plan. Without encryption, EVERYONE will be able to hear what you say. So make sure you have your codewords in order and that they switch every (couple of) days. With encryption ONLY folks with the capabilities to de-encrypt will be able to hear what you say. Doesn't mean you don't need code words. I can now buy a DMR that is analog capable and AES256 capable for 230 euros. That's less then another loaded out (with pouches, not even one piece of gear) chest rig. It's basically you saying: "there are guys with AP rounds, don't wear plates because you're not that important."
Let’s have the next video
Best affordable aftermarket antennae for a baofeng UV?
Any chance of a 148D PTT for standard nato plugs in the future?
Precision munitions are sorta infinite now w the UAS.
UHF are better inside the city. VHF are better on flat ground , or 2 meter band, vs 70 CM. Use pig tail or small antennas in the squad. You will try your 🍇 trying to take in all the different information at once. Don’t be juicy. Except when you switch roles and you’re the plumber‼️ Feed them well. Comtac 6 headsets don’t be cheap you can talk at the squad level without using comms. 💀
I get into CW over HF Transceivers , amateur radio is more my thing 😂