I can't say he influenced my decision but I bought 10 with 10 spare batteries and chargers, and upgraded antennas. And a magnetic mount antenna to connect my Baofengs to in my truck.
@@feoxorusI think my civic needs one too... I really want the ar 152... I heard they're trying to ban automatic radios, so I should probably get one before that!
And you can't convince me the Wouxun is $200 better than a UV5R. It's analog, FM voice, over UHF and VHF frequencies. They are wasting their money buying the Wouxun.
I love baofeng uv-5r and taught a course to my community on how to use it, find local frequencies, and connect to the repeaters. For under $20, it allows the beginner to put a toe in the water of emergency communications. There's better radios out there and I prefer them for my own use, but I also believe everyone should have or know someone who has the ability to communicate when the system goes down.
@@millerbatson8769 thats it, pops will still be booting his windows 2000 pc and loading that zap file 😉 I know my UV5R quite well and can fully program channels on the go.
My uv5rs can't hit any repeater well in my area. That's at home or work. My others will. No, a uv5r that doesn't work is not better than nothing. That said, an id52 is not necessary. An ft60/65/70 are great and in the "Japanese" quality bracket. Not to mention the used market.
@@nunyabiihz8922 The answer to that question is highly dependent on the gear you are using. Antennas vary in power rating, come with different connectors, etc.
Most people don't have $300 to spend on an emergency radio, your video is ridiculous, the UV5R is one of the greatest things ever created on earth, if people only want to use GMRS a Radioddity for $35 get the job done very well
@@johnenraniTransmit further? I would say no, probably not. If they are of equal power then I don't see there being a difference is signal strength. Probably signal cleanliness
@@johnenrani look up notarubicon do you need an expensive radio. From what I understand hand held radios are limited by size of antenna and power not the price tag. All the radio is, is just a transmitter. Boafangs are cheep but they work. They work. They are easy to jail break. They can transmit on GMRS. They can hit Repeaters. I say if you can spare the money to see if they work for you buy it. Get a Nagoya 771 antenna radio is $20 antenna is $20. The Nagoya is essential tho the stock antennas are garbage.
@@johnenrani no, but they transmit with less harmonics, and their receivers are usually much better. So you can hear others better with the more expensive radio, and your signal is cleaner.
Definitely get a UV5R. They are the best beginners radios for the price. Once you get your first you will be addicted, buy a ton of cheap radios at first. Then your gonna want more and more. More features, more power, maybe superheterodyne. I only wanted a radio to take camping one day and now I have over 30 HTs 4 mobiles, a base setup, meshtastic, and an HF scanner. At first I got my GMRS license and gave over 30 uv5rs for Christmas. Then I joined my local radio club and got my ham. I JUST WANTED A RADIO FOR CAMPING! Evil UV5R started it all. So I guess I can see his point, don’t get a UV5R unless you want that monkey on your back.
The Baofeng UV-5R ( and some of their other dual band economy radios like my UV-82 HPs) definitely *do* have a real and practical use for non HAMs. I have all 6 of my UV-82HPs programmed with all the GMRS/FRS channels. Under $30 each. True, they're not FCC legal for GMRS frequencies, but I *can* legally hand them out to all my neighbors in an emergency situation and it's perfectly legal. BTW, it does not require a HAM operator to program radios. Many UA-cam videos on the topic. Thank you for the video.
One of the key components that can determine how far you can communicate with any radio is the antenna. Having the right antenna set up can dramatically boost your range. Speaking as a former US Army Special Forces Communications NCO, we learned a lot about radio wave propagation and antennas. I had a Vietnam veteran as an instructor that talked about transmitting with the PRC-77 radio over 200 miles, that radio is only rated for 2-5 miles.
You can't argue with physics. The PRC-77 was a VHF radio, but it also had HF frequencies in the 10m through 6m bands, which would facilitate regional communications in the 200 mile range using NVIS deployed HF antennas (NVIS essentially transmits a signal at a steep angle, and the waves are reflected back to the Earth, allowing for regional comms). The PRC-77 was a very low-power radio, too. The Wouxun radio the LDS prepper touts above (no better or worse than a Baofeng, really...Same power, same frequency, same mode as a $25 UV5R, it just has a nicer screen) is incapable of that type of communication. The Wouxun's UHF and VHF frequencies are line of sight frequencies, meaning they have to have a direct line of sight to each other to communicate. A full-wave antenna will improve the effectiveness of the transmitted and received signals of the handheld radios, but UHF and VHF frequencies don't reflect off the ionosphere and they don't conform to the curvature of the Earth. A 17-mile range isn't uncommon with dual-band radios, as long as there is enough power for the transmitted signal to reach stations within line of sight. Consider amateurs in major metropolitan cities place their UHF and VHF repeaters atop tall buildings and in towers. This facilitates communications with mobile stations all across the city, which usually have decent external antennas and possibly a bit more power than the standard handheld, to communicate effectively, as long as they have line of sight to the repeater. In rural areas, repeaters are often atop mountains and water towers. In the referenced video, the Angels can talk to each other because they have reasonable line of sight to each other. Jill's elevated, outdoor antenna, higher and clear of obstructions, facilitated communications. Lightning would be a concern at this point. HF frequencies could connect families beyond the 50 mile range pretty easily, especially if everyone was willing to learn Morse code.
Uv5r should absolutely be in every kit....they are dirt cheap and pretty rugged for what you get. You should also have nice radios....both need to be part of your solution.
@@larryjanson4011I dropped mine in a puddle of mug in the chicken coop, got mad and threw it across the yard, picked it up, sprayed it down with a water hose, let it dry, and it works just fine.
I actually saved a possible train accident from hitting a car stuck on the tracks with my inexpensive UV5R. I was homeless & camping just outside the south end of a CSX yard one night with some friends . There's a road bridge that over passes a road below and 2 railroad tracks. We heard a car engine rev up coming around the opposite side of the over pass . Well instead of fallowing the road around under the bridge it kept straight an launched right upon the tracks. They tried desperately to back off and get away but the tires just dug the dirt out from under them leaving the car even more stuck. I just so happen to have my UV5R on me and listened to the yard often. When the occupants of the car got out they were obviously blistering intoxicated. So not wanting to be involved with the cops or courts after, I used my radio to contact the yard who immediately stopped an on coming south bound train. Soon after a high rail truck appeared and confirmed the car on the tracks to the CSX yard. We had a small chat then me and my friends left before the cops arrived. CSX was very greatful and I made some new friends that night as well . ☺️
I bought that N9TAX slim jim antenna for 32 bucks for mine and it's a pretty good time. I can gmrs repeaters 15-20 miles away. I still need to test it on simplex radio to radio, but so far it's great and I spent like 60 bucks for radio and antenna combined
@trooperrogue9732 check out this one. It's pretty good. I just got one tuned to 2m and 70cm with the SMA female connector. Works great with the UV5R, even Works pretty good on GMRS even though it's not tuned to GMRS.
Using a uv5r and a tram duel band base antenna at 30 feet, I was able to talk over 100 miles at full quieting at 1 watt. Both the uv5r radios were purchased around 2013 and are still working well. If you're on a budget, it's a good radio. Wish Mine were 10 dollars. But it was 2 for 79 but did come with charge cradles and microphone and earphonemic and programming cable.
I’ll buy whatever I want. You made this video so people will follow the link so you can make money off of their purchase. A lot of people can not afford an expensive setup for emergencies.
i own 10 of these radios. they have never let me down and i hand them out like candy. about every friend and family member has received at least one of these from me as gifts over the years. i do wish i could set up different sub groups of frquencies to scan but other than that i think they are great
I have the GT-5r , the "clean" version of the UV-5r, and standing in my living room and talk to and listen to repeaters 20-30 miles away using a Nagoya 771. Also just a personal observation, customer support means nothing in a SHTF situation..
Customer support is useless even now! As are "extended warranties". If something electronic fails you, toss it and get a new one, maybe a different brand. In SHTF you'll find newer, better radios at the home of dead preppers who bought top-quality gear and not a garden tiller or a Berkey. Or they bought one Daniel Defense instead of 5 PSAs.
You do know that most police and sheriff's departments are using digital encrypted radios now? The old days of listening to emergency services radio communication are quickly ending everywhere. We the plebians are not allowed to use encrypted communications, whereas it is encouraged by the federal and state governments that law enforcement and other emergency responders switch to encrypted radios for all communication.
We most certainly are "allowed" to use encrypted communications. We just can't use them on Amateur frequencies, because that is how those frequencies are licensed.
I do know that most emergency services have gone to digital comms for consolidation of frequencies, but most of them do not use encryption, at least full time.
I absolutely hate how i spend hours watching videos on this subject and every single person with a video talk like I should already know all the terms and information I need as a beginner. So frustrating.
Very funny. But be careful - if it is not a true emergency you risk getting a hefty fine from the FCC. In 2023 they handed out a $23,000 fine for a guy using frequencies without a license or an emergency.
I tell people this all the time. The biggest threat is going to be a person, or a group, looking to take your shit by any means possible. 99% of users won’t want involved for risk of giving up their location, let alone helping fend off marauders.
Excellent introduction to radio communications for beginners. I don't believe there's a big need to focus on the type of radio at the beginning, just get two handhelds and go outside and practice. My first radio was a yaesu FT-60 and I used it to connect to the local Ham repeater. Next my wife got her Tech license, we set up a base station, and we practiced a lot. We used radios instead of cell phones learning how far they could reach. Eventually it becomes a lifestyle of communicating whenever you are apart for simple stuff, with the ultimate idea that you can be ready to use radios if necessary. We had the opportunity during a wildfire a few years ago when the power grid, cell phones, and Internet were all down. We never lost communications once during the evacuations. I definitely agree that practice during good times is critical as the stress levels of crises are not the best time to learn anything especially something technical.
I recommend getting HT's because they are very easy to get on air. I got mobile and base stations, they take more effort to get going. I started with a Yaesu FT-727R HT when I got my first ham license. I'm really glad I started with an HT. I just got a Baofeng UV-5X3 and very happy with it.
I get 50-75 miles out of my Baofeng handheld. I have it hooked up to a 50 watt amplifier and it is connected to a 4 element cubical quad at 40' next to the house. That's 75 miles simplex with another station that has at least a mobile antenna and an amplifier. Of course with repeaters I can chat everywhere. The radio is cheap, but great for the cost.
For the exact same price as your Wouxun portable, you can have the Anytone AT-D878UVII portable. It will do MURS, and UHF itinerant frequencies that yours may not. It also does DMR digital, GPS, APRS, in both analog and digital, and AES 256 encryption. It has the same size battery as your Wouxun, and you can buy extra batteries that can be charged by USB.
Thank you for sharing. I was just looking for information about the best 2 way radio system to get and I believe you helped lead me in the right direction. Now I need to research what it takes to become a liscenced radio operator.
getting a tech ham permit is really easy, only about 400something total questions in the pool. but you only need to answer about 30 of them. and 70% is passing. the feds charge a $35.USD tax the people that do the testing are hams and they do it for free. some smart people have done the tech, general, and extra testing same day. ( different question pool for each level).
Your Technician-class license is stupid-easy. Learn some basics about frequency and wavelength and you've got it whipped. Buy the Baofengs to start, you won't regret the $100 to set up a pair of them with good antennas and spare batteries.
Thank you for the nice video! I have a couple of comments, if I may. 1. There is also a USB-C chargeable battery for the Mate. It has a somewhat lower capacity (2200 mAh), but it might come in handy. It is also available from BTWR. 2. There is also a decent radio from Retevis (RA89), which is a dual bander with higher power. It is quite a bit cheaper than the Mate. Although it has a direct conversion receiver, it has very good sensitivity and selectivity. No front end overload even in an urban area. No spurious emissions. Practically waterproof. USB-C charging. One negative is that it doesn't seem to have cross-band repeat capability. I am not adding any links here because UA-cam will delete my comment.
Absolutely buy one of these for everyone in your family, get certified in gmrs and shortwave, learn on these and teach with them.keep one in your car with an upgraded antenna and if you need to transmit far bounce off a repeater and get as high up as you can. It can also monitor different important frequencies.
keep in in a sealed steel box grounded to the chassis. and keep the radio and components insulated from the steel box with at least one in foam. just i case of a emp, ( nuke or sun). plus keeps every safe and sound.
Knowing more about how to use makes ALL the difference!!! With the mobile antenna I get 35-65 miles!! YES BAOFENG UV 5R: With my $10 car antenna I get 65+ miles sometimes approximately 100. Miles!!!! NOT sure what some of these videos are missing. BUT TRUTH!!!
Just setup a mobile doing cross band repeat and put on one big central antenna. You will get about 30-50 mile of coverage on those HT's. I done if before in after a Tornado in Xenia, OH that to out the Police and Fire/EMS communications and us HAMS had to step in. Go park in a high place, put a j-pole up in a tree and turn on cross band repeat, and boom communications.
EMP is low frequency stuff. It travels power lines and takes out power grids. Most small battery operated electronics will not be effected. I just wonder if China has a program in the radios to shut off with a satellite signal if they ever choose.
@@leo.girardi This is from the Domestic Preparedness site. "Based on the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and Congressional EMP Commission’s EMP test databases, small, self-contained systems, such as motor vehicles, hand-held radios, and unconnected portable generators, tend not to be affected by EMPs. If there is an effect on these systems, it is often temporary upset rather than component burnout." I'll keep doing research. I know that EMP generators, and nuclear EMP can be two different things.
Thank you so much for this information! It has answered so many questions that I’ve had. I’m new to this world of ham radio communication and have been seeking for answers and you are the first one that has put it all in nutshell and I really have been looking a lot thank you so much.
Kinda to late you went into the weeds when you titled the video the way you did its more about 5 other radios More then the UV-5R and why not to buy it Sorry just being honest this could of been a 5 minute video about the UV-5R and you could of edited out the rest of the video and made it a seperate video on the 50 watt radios and the KG-UV9D Mate seperate just saying 20:00
I just saw your comment about not getting a baofeng radio! I have a diamond x 50, up 20 feet, with a yaesu ftm 6000, and a 30 amp power supply, a mfj-4230mvp. I have the best wire available. I also have an any tone GMRS radio. I use the same antenna, with a switcher, so I can use the same antenna. It works resonably well with the gmrs radios, locally. We are setting up a local emergency communications from block to block about 1 mile apart! The baofeng radios are perfect for block to block, to report any emergencies locally! We have 17 men with radios, that report in twice a month, and it appears to be working! They have their uses!
Folks buy you a Baofeng UV-5G Plus it’s gmrs and a great radio. It’s already programmed. If you want to get other frequencies other than gmrs get a UV-5R or AR-5M. The prices are great and so are the radios.
I’ve listened in on a weekly net show that transmits from I don’t know where in the US, but one of the check-ins was from Australia. I’m in Minnesota. I could hear him quite clearly on my lowly little UV-5R. A repeater network is your friend.
I disagree with the first comment i have used plenty of handy talkies on repeaters over 90 miles away no issues they can be used for not just radio to radio around the property and also hot repeaters super far away larger antenna do make handy talkies do simplex from decebt ranges i have gotten 50 miles on ideal conditions 1:00
It all depends on where you live. I live in forested, mountainous terrain and for me 90 miles is 5 mountain ridges away. Linked repeaters will work okay in those conditions sometimes. Bottom line: you have to try different means of connecting to repeaters until you find a setup that works for you.
All of my radios are multiband it's not that hard to unlock the gmrs frequencies on a ham radio after researching the chances is very very slim the FCC is going to come after you for having gmrs on a ham radio just make sure you have a gmrs license is $30 but note the higher frequencies you go the last distance it is recommended that you use this murs frequency 151 820 for your emergency it's a Mars channel your able to talk a whole lot further. I am a gmrs operator wrqk 245 unit5 for the Midwest link repeater system all of our repeaters are fully backed up will work on standalone within a 50-mile radius when the power goes down when they're link in we from the east coast to the West Coast I also recommend buying a any tone mobiles they're also program to portable repeaters using your vehicle to get the farthest distance get on UA-cam to see how to program them they're really easy to program.
GMRS repeaters are less abundant the further east you go because of the terrain (lots of hills and trees). People should buy the radio that will have the network to function where they live - and for many that will be the UV5R.
I have two UV-5Rs. I’m not licensed for anything, yet, so I can only listen. However, I can listen to repeaters on 2 Meters and 70 Centimeters that are around 20 miles away, and I have the local GMRS repeater that is less than a mile from my house programmed into both radios, and can listen on them and the signal is perfectly clear, full quieting. I’m thinking about getting some friends to have all of us get GMRS licenses and GMRS UV-5Rs, and we’ll have our own network If communications go down. A plus is our city is the highest elevation in our metro area.
interesting.350.00 per radio. I have 12 Baofeng UV-5Rs for my family with accessories for 610.00. This includes back ups in faraday cages and at resupply locations. I can reach out from Sam's Point to Goshen (25.6 miles), using a Nagoya 771 antenna. Plus my UV-5Rs can transmit on 2M/1.25M/70cm/Marine/GMRS/MURS, which your radio can not. And maybe the reason you can hear better than the other guy with his Baofeng has to do with your antenna.
A walkthrough video, tutorial on using ham band radios is not practical. They're simply is far too much information that needs to be studied and learned. That cannot be done in a video.
There's lots of tutorials on UA-cam for many types of radios. Just start with buying two handheld radios and practice communicating with your family and friends. Making mistakes is the best way to learn. Forgetting to turn the volume up or accidentally changing frequency are two simple mistakes we all have made. Joining a radio club helps immensely as there's a lot to learn and club members love to share ( there are exceptions and some clubs aren't as friendly as ours.) Radios get complicated though and it helps if you're a little geeky. Or else get help setting yours up, especially connecting to repeaters.
Start by watching videos on how to program them from scratch. Put in the FRS channels and start practicing with them. Keep the power under 2 watts, you are just practicing. Once you realize how to program them, it will start to be fun.
Is that GMRS range still possible since the gvmnt shut down the mygmrs website and there are no longer internet repeaters? Thank you! Appreciate your videos! 🙏🏻
I have my ham tag and gmrs tag. I have Icom and Yeasu radios and about 10 Baofengs UV82L, UV5R, and UV5RX models and I have a Wouxun kg-uv899. I find I use my UV82L the most. For several months, I carried both my FT60R and the 82L with the same signal stick antenna because I didn't trust the cheap Baofeng. I found I couldn't tell the difference (nor could people I talked to) in received or transmitting between the two radios. I have beat the heck out of the 82 and it still works great. Plus it costs less than $20. But, I'm going to check out your Wouxun KGUV9.
This was an excellent video you've presented...I am going out to buy my first transceiver and looking for that great anniversari kit. You are an excellent speaker !
I'm going to be buying my first radio and getting my license then when it cost $35 I would like to know if this radio is good for me to transmit on the this type of frequency grms uvr5 plus
You can communicate on FRS and GMRS frequencies no problem with about 20 miles range on a UV5R with a good antenna and low interference. You also don't need a license or to transmit to learn how to use a radio. And the license for ham is cheaper and really not that difficult for a technician license.
Ok, I think the title is a bit too strongly worded. I was expecting some major issue but then you link to it for purchase. I get it, if its not an "emergency" radio you would use but I thought the title was the main point of the video and something critically detrimental about it was going to be exposed.
Great video. Keep up the good work! I see the plus version of the Wouxun KG-935 has some nice improvements if you don't mind paying about $70 Canadian extra.
I've been a HAM for 25 yrs. Been on CB for 10 yrs before that. Certified Electronic Tech, built my own transmitters and amplifiers. I own Icom, Yaesu, Alinco, an Baofeng - the Baofeng work just as good, Maybe better than some of the High Priced Name Brand. PERIOD! Shut up an get over it!
Reception difference doesn't make sense to me at all especially since you are emphasizing transmission power. I remember in the barracks back in the 70's, people would argue over who had the better stereo - one guy's had .05% less wow and flutter in a freq range outside the human hearing range. This video makes me feel like I'm back in the 70's again. Thank you.
He is right, but is you have 5R with a good roof antenna, you should make some noise, but I feel better with 50W or 110watts or more- I am not talking for GMRS.
There are tests on UA-cam in which UV5RTP aka UV5R8W emit 8.1 - 9.9 w from their power anps. Using a Nagoya NA-771 antenna, ( 2.15 dB, multiplier is 1.64 x), the ERP for these results would be 13.28 - 16.24 w
Interesting video. I don't have a lot of different brand experience under my belt yet but I think I prefer radios with the old fashioned display (I think it's called monochrome LCD) over the ones with the more modern smartphone style display. I think the key to this stuff is figuring out how to integrate it into your regular life somehow so that the gear gets used often enough during good times that people are comfortable using it during stressful times. I'm just at a loss as to how to encourage family and neighbors to integrate "old man tech" like radio in this age of mobile phones and satellite internet. Maybe a weekly neighborhood 'net' with prize drawings or something?
I use the KG1000+, 935, and Q10 as my personal radios. (All form buy 2way radio) then I have over 30 HTs and 4 mobiles. I started with a UV5R for camping…………. Now I’m dual licensed and RF is a part of my daily life.
Also forgot to mention, I have/use a Btech (Baofeng's US-made brand) AMP-V25D that I use with my UV-5R to add some wattage if needed. Of course at the price of that amp, I could have bought a more expensive radio, but not necessarily much more wattage (there's certainly no 25W handheld). I also like that I can drop a UV-5R or lend them out and I don't cry what happens to them. Re: signal, I'd highly recommend checking/updating the firmware, definitely makes a difference about half the time. Pay attention to exactly what version of the uv-5r you have. I'd also recommend the Baofeng software rather than chirp for managing the firmware of a BF
Thank you for all the good information. I need to work on my emergency communication plan and this was helpful. I know it’s a little off subject, but the stock UV5R antenna has a bad reputation. You may want to get a better antenna before you take it to your next event.
My early experience was with the Baofeng GT-3, which is practically identical to the UV-5R. Using the stock rubber duck antenna the performance was not impressive but when I switched to a 17.25" whip antenna there was a huge difference. I was able to communicate clearly over 7 miles up a twisting forest canyon with no problems at all. When their batteries started failing I bought 10 UV-5rs, extra batteries for each one and whip antennas - for less than the price of a single Yaesu. I have no trouble hitting the repeater in town, also 7+ miles away and on the far side of a hill. I have radios to pass out to like-minded neighbors, and provided they are kept dry and not abused I think they're totally adequate. I listen to any band using SDR on my laptop if I want to know what's happening in Texas or Europe but I don't need to talk to them. I don't need 50 watts and a base station because I don't plan on being RDFed for blasting out things I don't even talk about.
I have GMRS and Amateur licenses for radio operation. They are great for use, each in their own realm. GMRS is great for family/local use. I highly recommend getting your Amateur license also. Get your amateur license and learn to operate the equipment, make friends and join groups/nets to have people that can help when SHTF. The access to VHF/UHF ham repeaters allows for local, regional and world wide communications when linked, as with the East Coast Reflector. HF radio enables you to have direct, world wide comms.
I live in Central Illinois and have a daughter, son in law, and grandchildren in St.louis area. We understand what is coming down the pipe and know we need a family communication plan ASAP. Can you please help us? Thanks
my uv5’s are for fun use and as if they get damaged, lost, stolen, they are cheap to replace. being used as a use radio in the csm, but if all goes south my hand helds are yaesu vx8dr and vx6dr ham radios. plus a couple mobile and pack radios. then my ic7300 using as a base radio. couple scanners, base and hand held. and couple cb radios. ( no hand held here). then two ways to get gps, might buy more? yes normal compasses and knowledge of how to read and use paper maps. everything has at least one back up. including power supplys.
Distance or concern of all I want to talk to California from Nashville Milwaukee from Mississippi, Florida to California. Can the MURS do that or do I need to go ham?
Do you try to upgrade the anttena of uv5r? If has a better receive than stock anttena? I think anttena has a big difference. Your wouxun has a long stock anttena better than short uv5r stock anttena.
Great video David! Is the Wouxun KGUV9D a super heterodyne radio? Not a radio on a chip? Can you explain why your base radio is transmitting on 446.100 but receiving on 146.565? Is this so others listening on a band can't hear the full communication? I was just about to buy the GMRS version of the Wouxun KGUV980P. So you think the UHF/VHF is better for distance than the GMRS? Since it's UHF, can you pick up and communicate with CB? Sorry about all the questions. Thanks again!!
KG-UV9D is a superheterodyne radio. Ham and GMRS serve two different purposes and one is only "better" than the other relative to your intended user or application. Despite there being no real technical restrictions, you cannot LEGALLY communicate with CB radios using ham radios.
Having now watched the whole video, I think your comms plan is excellent. Im not sure of the legality of xband repeating in the USA, its illegal where I am, but I wouldnt care if I actually need it someday. Ive not tested the baofeng next to a more expensive radio at the same time, so I cant comment, but the baofengs are good to begin with as you say. The quansheng is interesting because there are custom firmwares being developed with great functionality. Build quality seems ok too. If I were to go for an expensive handheld, id go yeasu. for 200 Euro I can start to get a yeasu, and I bet its going to outperform the wouxun. I have an ft-8900r as my base, with a diamond dual band antenna like the ones you show, and have tried the xband repeating, allowing my baofengs to reach home from 4km away, and go out to the other side of the area. I did that in a country where its legal :) Your comms plan for family comms is exactly what mine is. I actually do plan to use, and have, several PMR radios in the mix which would allow me to just give them to children etc and still have them able to contact the repeater. I have an ft817nd for long range info gathering as I mentioned, however it doesnt really form part of an emergency plan. Look into Rattlegram, shredpix and assempix. I have succesfully sent images a few km with just two baofengs and phones..... in a country where legal to do so of course. Pics can be useful, My next purchase which arrives in a week or so, is a couple of meshtastic nodes, and I plan to try ATAK on android with them....... could be a very useful tool
First off, I always love the decor in your house. Really nice! The thing about mobile antenna on a car is how are you routing that feed line into the cab? Are you just mashing it in the door?
Depends on the car. On a truck, usually you'd route it down under the cab, along the frame rail (watch to clear exhaust or anything else that could cause an issue), up the firewall and through a hole to behind the dash. but sometimes there is an access hole with a plug at the back of the cab. Depends on the vehicle. That said, I don't do any of that, I just mash it in the door :). I duct tape it nicely with fancy truck-matching red duct tape, and because of the weatherstripping, it doesn't really get smashed. It's uglier than the other way, but it works. Depending on the vehicle, there may be other options also.
I still find it insane that a little 2-way 5 watt radio requires a license to legally operate it? Way too much government over reach... Also what about one of those EMP bombs, any radios work after that?
After an EMP?? My Guess is you now have an expensive paperweight... Always keep comms in an EMP bag when not in use. If you can, keep a spare set in a EMP bag for JUST IN CASE SHTF EMP hit while you DX'ing. Remember, a radio is designed to receive Freq, and a EMP is nothing more then a super powerful FREQ. EPM= Electric Magnetic Pulse. Hope this helps Good
@@angacamthehobbit-PapaPrepper I was just curious about an EMP and sort of figured mass electronic meltdown of everything. Back to the days of ...---... I suppose. Enjoying this channel though as I have a lot to learn about in radio communications!
If you want to see why you need a license to operate on the amateur bands,get near a truck stop and turn on channel 19. The license process filters out a lot of trash.
I'm a noob to the radio stuff but been trying to learn as much as I can. Live in western Maine area with a lot of hills, mountains, trees, just a lot of obstructions. I like what your showing here have been thinking of this type of set up with no clue and your video has help me to better understand. Just looking for a set up that will work in this area and be able to get a 20 mile range. I'm starting with no knowledge of radios at all.
I'm wanting to try to get my gmrs license. I've been wanting to do amateur radio but I have heard it's very complicated and the test is very difficult . I wonder if there are any ham radio classes to enroll in .
Try Ham Radio Crash Course here on UA-cam. For GMRS content - check out The Not A Rubicon channel. The entry Ham license test isn’t that hard- and the HRCC channel mentioned above will help you and there are free exam prep apps you can download to practice on
There's supposed be a new Wouxun GMRS Radio that has come forth that is suppose to supersede the one that you have just mentioned and that's the Wouxun KG-Q10G which is a very solid performer although it costs quite a bit more!
Not sure why the belt clip being on the battery is better than on the radio. My UV-5R has the clip on the radio, I have multiple 3800 mAh batteries if one dies I change battery and don’t have to have another belt clip on that battery! It is a quick 3 second change and done! Having the Baofeng is nice as it is small but when you have big hands and fingers, pushing the tiny buttons is difficult, however putting the 3800 battery on makes it fit nicer with my hands.
Cause of you I bought 5 extra Baofengs....😂😂😂
I have 3, bought 3 more lol
Same
just bought 4 more
I can't say he influenced my decision but I bought 10 with 10 spare batteries and chargers, and upgraded antennas. And a magnetic mount antenna to connect my Baofengs to in my truck.
@@feoxorusI think my civic needs one too... I really want the ar 152... I heard they're trying to ban automatic radios, so I should probably get one before that!
If I bought my wife any sort of communication radio for Christmas as a main gift she would probably call a divorce lawyer.
Underrated Comment
nice one! ha,ha!
A UV5R is still better than no radio.
And you can't convince me the Wouxun is $200 better than a UV5R. It's analog, FM voice, over UHF and VHF frequencies. They are wasting their money buying the Wouxun.
I love baofeng uv-5r and taught a course to my community on how to use it, find local frequencies, and connect to the repeaters.
For under $20, it allows the beginner to put a toe in the water of emergency communications. There's better radios out there and I prefer them for my own use, but I also believe everyone should have or know someone who has the ability to communicate when the system goes down.
@@millerbatson8769 thats it, pops will still be booting his windows 2000 pc and loading that zap file 😉 I know my UV5R quite well and can fully program channels on the go.
Good grief LDS….
My uv5rs can't hit any repeater well in my area. That's at home or work. My others will. No, a uv5r that doesn't work is not better than nothing. That said, an id52 is not necessary. An ft60/65/70 are great and in the "Japanese" quality bracket. Not to mention the used market.
rule number one. upgrade your antenna. doesn't matter if its a $20 radio or a $500 radio.
Smiley Ant Co , made in USA for HT radios
What antenna would you recommend upgrading to?
@@nunyabiihz8922 The answer to that question is highly dependent on the gear you are using. Antennas vary in power rating, come with different connectors, etc.
@@nunyabiihz8922slim jim antenna
Most people don't have $300 to spend on an emergency radio, your video is ridiculous, the UV5R is one of the greatest things ever created on earth, if people only want to use GMRS a Radioddity for $35 get the job done very well
for $300 get yaesu, kenwood, icom...
Don't buy this $20 radio! Buy this $200 radio!!! LMFAO. Of course they aren't the same thing man, one costs 10x as much as the other one.
But go the professional things really transmit so much further?
@@johnenraniTransmit further? I would say no, probably not. If they are of equal power then I don't see there being a difference is signal strength. Probably signal cleanliness
@@johnenrani look up notarubicon do you need an expensive radio. From what I understand hand held radios are limited by size of antenna and power not the price tag. All the radio is, is just a transmitter.
Boafangs are cheep but they work. They work. They are easy to jail break. They can transmit on GMRS. They can hit Repeaters. I say if you can spare the money to see if they work for you buy it. Get a Nagoya 771 antenna radio is $20 antenna is $20. The Nagoya is essential tho the stock antennas are garbage.
@@johnenrani no, but they transmit with less harmonics, and their receivers are usually much better. So you can hear others better with the more expensive radio, and your signal is cleaner.
Definitely get a UV5R. They are the best beginners radios for the price. Once you get your first you will be addicted, buy a ton of cheap radios at first. Then your gonna want more and more. More features, more power, maybe superheterodyne. I only wanted a radio to take camping one day and now I have over 30 HTs 4 mobiles, a base setup, meshtastic, and an HF scanner. At first I got my GMRS license and gave over 30 uv5rs for Christmas. Then I joined my local radio club and got my ham. I JUST WANTED A RADIO FOR CAMPING! Evil UV5R started it all. So I guess I can see his point, don’t get a UV5R unless you want that monkey on your back.
The Baofeng UV-5R ( and some of their other dual band economy radios like my UV-82 HPs) definitely *do* have a real and practical use for non HAMs. I have all 6 of my UV-82HPs programmed with all the GMRS/FRS channels. Under $30 each. True, they're not FCC legal for GMRS frequencies, but I *can* legally hand them out to all my neighbors in an emergency situation and it's perfectly legal. BTW, it does not require a HAM operator to program radios. Many UA-cam videos on the topic. Thank you for the video.
Yep I agree I made a comment you might want to see...
The 888 are good to & ever cheaper
if my nabours do not have there own radios, thats a fail on thee part,
but people around here, know how to plan ahead.
They are only legal to use without a license in an emergency situation that is life-threatening
One of the key components that can determine how far you can communicate with any radio is the antenna. Having the right antenna set up can dramatically boost your range. Speaking as a former US Army Special Forces Communications NCO, we learned a lot about radio wave propagation and antennas. I had a Vietnam veteran as an instructor that talked about transmitting with the PRC-77 radio over 200 miles, that radio is only rated for 2-5 miles.
You can't argue with physics. The PRC-77 was a VHF radio, but it also had HF frequencies in the 10m through 6m bands, which would facilitate regional communications in the 200 mile range using NVIS deployed HF antennas (NVIS essentially transmits a signal at a steep angle, and the waves are reflected back to the Earth, allowing for regional comms). The PRC-77 was a very low-power radio, too. The Wouxun radio the LDS prepper touts above (no better or worse than a Baofeng, really...Same power, same frequency, same mode as a $25 UV5R, it just has a nicer screen) is incapable of that type of communication. The Wouxun's UHF and VHF frequencies are line of sight frequencies, meaning they have to have a direct line of sight to each other to communicate. A full-wave antenna will improve the effectiveness of the transmitted and received signals of the handheld radios, but UHF and VHF frequencies don't reflect off the ionosphere and they don't conform to the curvature of the Earth. A 17-mile range isn't uncommon with dual-band radios, as long as there is enough power for the transmitted signal to reach stations within line of sight. Consider amateurs in major metropolitan cities place their UHF and VHF repeaters atop tall buildings and in towers. This facilitates communications with mobile stations all across the city, which usually have decent external antennas and possibly a bit more power than the standard handheld, to communicate effectively, as long as they have line of sight to the repeater. In rural areas, repeaters are often atop mountains and water towers. In the referenced video, the Angels can talk to each other because they have reasonable line of sight to each other. Jill's elevated, outdoor antenna, higher and clear of obstructions, facilitated communications. Lightning would be a concern at this point. HF frequencies could connect families beyond the 50 mile range pretty easily, especially if everyone was willing to learn Morse code.
Smiley Antenna Co Made in USA or Nagoya 77 5/8 HT whip 😊
@@patring620 Wow! Thanks for all that information.
Uv5r should absolutely be in every kit....they are dirt cheap and pretty rugged for what you get. You should also have nice radios....both need to be part of your solution.
But they are NOT dust or water proof.
this is were the bufeng is a fail.
but yes i own them.
@@larryjanson4011I dropped mine in a puddle of mug in the chicken coop, got mad and threw it across the yard, picked it up, sprayed it down with a water hose, let it dry, and it works just fine.
I can buy 10 for the price of a waterproof one so I don't care
I actually saved a possible train accident from hitting a car stuck on the tracks with my inexpensive UV5R. I was homeless & camping just outside the south end of a CSX yard one night with some friends . There's a road bridge that over passes a road below and 2 railroad tracks. We heard a car engine rev up coming around the opposite side of the over pass . Well instead of fallowing the road around under the bridge it kept straight an launched right upon the tracks. They tried desperately to back off and get away but the tires just dug the dirt out from under them leaving the car even more stuck. I just so happen to have my UV5R on me and listened to the yard often. When the occupants of the car got out they were obviously blistering intoxicated. So not wanting to be involved with the cops or courts after, I used my radio to contact the yard who immediately stopped an on coming south bound train. Soon after a high rail truck appeared and confirmed the car on the tracks to the CSX yard. We had a small chat then me and my friends left before the cops arrived. CSX was very greatful and I made some new friends that night as well . ☺️
Shit that never happend part 1
My UV-5R will reach 12 miles with 20’ antenna and no canopy. No repeater necessary. It’s a great starter.
20' feet or 20" inches? ' is feet " is inches.
@@1yachtcarpenter 20 inches.
Thx..@@MarineScoutSniper
I bought that N9TAX slim jim antenna for 32 bucks for mine and it's a pretty good time. I can gmrs repeaters 15-20 miles away. I still need to test it on simplex radio to radio, but so far it's great and I spent like 60 bucks for radio and antenna combined
@trooperrogue9732 check out this one. It's pretty good. I just got one tuned to 2m and 70cm with the SMA female connector. Works great with the UV5R, even Works pretty good on GMRS even though it's not tuned to GMRS.
Using a uv5r and a tram duel band base antenna at 30 feet, I was able to talk over 100 miles at full quieting at 1 watt. Both the uv5r radios were purchased around 2013 and are still working well. If you're on a budget, it's a good radio. Wish Mine were 10 dollars. But it was 2 for 79 but did come with charge cradles and microphone and earphonemic and programming cable.
I’ll buy whatever I want. You made this video so people will follow the link so you can make money off of their purchase. A lot of people can not afford an expensive setup for emergencies.
If you’re into making money then you should advertise those. Take a look at your comments! Do you see the consensus?
And yes Baofeng radios can be trusted in emergencies.
I have 2 baofengs and have owned them for 9 years. The batteries are phenomenal and i can reach out 17 miles plus.
i own 10 of these radios. they have never let me down and i hand them out like candy. about every friend and family member has received at least one of these from me as gifts over the years. i do wish i could set up different sub groups of frquencies to scan but other than that i think they are great
I have the GT-5r , the "clean" version of the UV-5r, and standing in my living room and talk to and listen to repeaters 20-30 miles away using a Nagoya 771. Also just a personal observation, customer support means nothing in a SHTF situation..
Customer support is useless even now! As are "extended warranties". If something electronic fails you, toss it and get a new one, maybe a different brand. In SHTF you'll find newer, better radios at the home of dead preppers who bought top-quality gear and not a garden tiller or a Berkey. Or they bought one Daniel Defense instead of 5 PSAs.
You do know that most police and sheriff's departments are using digital encrypted radios now?
The old days of listening to emergency services radio communication are quickly ending everywhere.
We the plebians are not allowed to use encrypted communications, whereas it is encouraged by the federal and state governments that law enforcement and other emergency responders switch to encrypted radios for all communication.
We most certainly are "allowed" to use encrypted communications. We just can't use them on Amateur frequencies, because that is how those frequencies are licensed.
I do know that most emergency services have gone to digital comms for consolidation of frequencies, but most of them do not use encryption, at least full time.
I absolutely hate how i spend hours watching videos on this subject and every single person with a video talk like I should already know all the terms and information I need as a beginner. So frustrating.
If you are not licensed yet, just use the callsign Uniform Victor 5 Romeo when TX'ing. You might turn one of those frowns out there upside-down.😢😅
That is hilarious! I wonder how many people will understand your post. Way to go. 🤣
Very funny. But be careful - if it is not a true emergency you risk getting a hefty fine from the FCC. In 2023 they handed out a $23,000 fine for a guy using frequencies without a license or an emergency.
@@tienmou68 - D.D. was fined for doing much more than that.
don't buy one, buy three or four. there fixed it for you.
Must be a Sad Ham 😅😅😅 lol 🎉 I love the little UV-5R gr8 cheap radio for the buck ❤
News flash when SHTF you don't need to worry about a license you will need to duck and cover.
I tell people this all the time. The biggest threat is going to be a person, or a group, looking to take your shit by any means possible. 99% of users won’t want involved for risk of giving up their location, let alone helping fend off marauders.
Excellent introduction to radio communications for beginners. I don't believe there's a big need to focus on the type of radio at the beginning, just get two handhelds and go outside and practice. My first radio was a yaesu FT-60 and I used it to connect to the local Ham repeater. Next my wife got her Tech license, we set up a base station, and we practiced a lot. We used radios instead of cell phones learning how far they could reach. Eventually it becomes a lifestyle of communicating whenever you are apart for simple stuff, with the ultimate idea that you can be ready to use radios if necessary. We had the opportunity during a wildfire a few years ago when the power grid, cell phones, and Internet were all down. We never lost communications once during the evacuations.
I definitely agree that practice during good times is critical as the stress levels of crises are not the best time to learn anything especially something technical.
I recommend getting HT's because they are very easy to get on air. I got mobile and base stations, they take more effort to get going. I started with a Yaesu FT-727R HT when I got my first ham license. I'm really glad I started with an HT. I just got a Baofeng UV-5X3 and very happy with it.
I got both Baofeng UV-5R and UV-5X3. They are very decent radios.
I get 50-75 miles out of my Baofeng handheld. I have it hooked up to a 50 watt amplifier and it is connected to a 4 element cubical quad at 40' next to the house. That's 75 miles simplex with another station that has at least a mobile antenna and an amplifier. Of course with repeaters I can chat everywhere. The radio is cheap, but great for the cost.
problem is hearing them. sure you can reach out 100 miles, but they can only do 40 miles.
For the exact same price as your Wouxun portable, you can have the Anytone AT-D878UVII portable. It will do MURS, and UHF itinerant frequencies that yours may not. It also does DMR digital, GPS, APRS, in both analog and digital, and AES 256 encryption. It has the same size battery as your Wouxun, and you can buy extra batteries that can be charged by USB.
UV-5R is a great radio! Think McFly, think!
I bought a 6 pack of the UV-5G (the one a couple versions after the UV-5R). Works for me and the kids.
Thank you for sharing. I was just looking for information about the best 2 way radio system to get and I believe you helped lead me in the right direction.
Now I need to research what it takes to become a liscenced radio operator.
Please don't be as snobbish as he is later on.
getting a tech ham permit is really easy,
only about 400something total questions in the pool. but you only need to answer about 30 of them. and 70% is passing.
the feds charge a $35.USD tax
the people that do the testing are hams and they do it for free.
some smart people have done the tech, general, and extra testing same day. ( different question pool for each level).
gmrs is just a tax of $35.USD good for your family and for 10 years.
Your Technician-class license is stupid-easy. Learn some basics about frequency and wavelength and you've got it whipped.
Buy the Baofengs to start, you won't regret the $100 to set up a pair of them with good antennas and spare batteries.
Thank you for the nice video! I have a couple of comments, if I may.
1. There is also a USB-C chargeable battery for the Mate. It has a somewhat lower capacity (2200 mAh), but it might come in handy. It is also available from BTWR.
2. There is also a decent radio from Retevis (RA89), which is a dual bander with higher power. It is quite a bit cheaper than the Mate. Although it has a direct conversion receiver, it has very good sensitivity and selectivity. No front end overload even in an urban area. No spurious emissions. Practically waterproof. USB-C charging. One negative is that it doesn't seem to have cross-band repeat capability.
I am not adding any links here because UA-cam will delete my comment.
Absolutely buy one of these for everyone in your family, get certified in gmrs and shortwave, learn on these and teach with them.keep one in your car with an upgraded antenna and if you need to transmit far bounce off a repeater and get as high up as you can. It can also monitor different important frequencies.
keep in in a sealed steel box grounded to the chassis. and keep the radio and components insulated from the steel box with at least one in foam.
just i case of a emp, ( nuke or sun).
plus keeps every safe and sound.
Baofeng radios are good and very affordable, and any coms are far better than no coms
Knowing more about how to use makes ALL the difference!!! With the mobile antenna I get 35-65 miles!! YES BAOFENG UV 5R: With my $10 car antenna I get 65+ miles sometimes approximately 100. Miles!!!! NOT sure what some of these videos are missing. BUT TRUTH!!!
Just setup a mobile doing cross band repeat and put on one big central antenna. You will get about 30-50 mile of coverage on those HT's. I done if before in after a Tornado in Xenia, OH that to out the Police and Fire/EMS communications and us HAMS had to step in. Go park in a high place, put a j-pole up in a tree and turn on cross band repeat, and boom communications.
I’m a emergency you do not need a license and in a national emergency nobody is going to cair and ham will get you hello quicker
Is it a good idea to have a spare setup in a faraday cage to prevent damage from an emp?
That's the best idea to be ready in case of EMP atrack
LOL if you know what a Faraday cage is, you know the answer already.
EMP is low frequency stuff. It travels power lines and takes out power grids. Most small battery operated electronics will not be effected. I just wonder if China has a program in the radios to shut off with a satellite signal if they ever choose.
@@jhutch1470 No, a nuclear EMP can go into the GHz. Do you have tests on these devices?
@@leo.girardi This is from the Domestic Preparedness site.
"Based on the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and Congressional EMP Commission’s EMP test databases, small, self-contained systems, such as motor vehicles, hand-held radios, and unconnected portable generators, tend not to be affected by EMPs. If there is an effect on these systems, it is often temporary upset rather than component burnout."
I'll keep doing research. I know that EMP generators, and nuclear EMP can be two different things.
Thank you so much for this information! It has answered so many questions that I’ve had. I’m new to this world of ham radio communication and have been seeking for answers and you are the first one that has put it all in nutshell and I really have been looking a lot thank you so much.
Kinda to late you went into the weeds when you titled the video the way you did its more about 5 other radios More then the UV-5R and why not to buy it Sorry just being honest this could of been a 5 minute video about the UV-5R and you could of edited out the rest of the video and made it a seperate video on the 50 watt radios and the KG-UV9D Mate seperate just saying 20:00
I just saw your comment about not getting a baofeng radio! I have a diamond x 50, up 20 feet, with a yaesu ftm 6000, and a 30 amp power supply, a mfj-4230mvp. I have the best wire available. I also have an any tone GMRS radio. I use the same antenna, with a switcher, so I can use the same antenna. It works resonably well with the gmrs radios, locally. We are setting up a local emergency communications from block to block about 1 mile apart! The baofeng radios are perfect for block to block, to report any emergencies locally! We have 17 men with radios, that report in twice a month, and it appears to be working! They have their uses!
Hey I've seen smaller radios go 30 miles. It really depends what the landscape looks like. If your in the city get the crap out!
I have 6 of these baofengs and they work like champ.
Folks buy you a Baofeng UV-5G Plus it’s gmrs and a great radio. It’s already programmed. If you want to get other frequencies other than gmrs get a UV-5R or AR-5M. The prices are great and so are the radios.
A hard topic to present in a lecture video within less than 30 minutes. You did a good job of
Explaining why one should have radio communications.
i was listening to radio station outta lindiana from fountain valley ca. baofeng uv5r I was like wow!
I’ve listened in on a weekly net show that transmits from I don’t know where in the US, but one of the check-ins was from Australia. I’m in Minnesota. I could hear him quite clearly on my lowly little UV-5R. A repeater network is your friend.
@@gregorysloat4258 I did not set that frequency on Indiana station. Kinda sorry I did so much to learn.
We have a repeater that reaches quite a way. Was talking on one of my handhelds to a guy about 60 miles away about an hour ago.
I disagree with the first comment i have used plenty of handy talkies on repeaters over 90 miles away no issues they can be used for not just radio to radio around the property and also hot repeaters super far away larger antenna do make handy talkies do simplex from decebt ranges i have gotten 50 miles on ideal conditions 1:00
It all depends on where you live. I live in forested, mountainous terrain and for me 90 miles is 5 mountain ridges away. Linked repeaters will work okay in those conditions sometimes.
Bottom line: you have to try different means of connecting to repeaters until you find a setup that works for you.
@@millerbatson8769 everything you said is Facts But has nothing to do with my comment I said what I said because of were I live not were others live
I have a BAOFENG UV5R, and it's a great HT, congratulations for your video, greetings from San Javier Misiones Argentina 73
All of my radios are multiband it's not that hard to unlock the gmrs frequencies on a ham radio after researching the chances is very very slim the FCC is going to come after you for having gmrs on a ham radio just make sure you have a gmrs license is $30 but note the higher frequencies you go the last distance it is recommended that you use this murs frequency 151 820 for your emergency it's a Mars channel your able to talk a whole lot further. I am a gmrs operator wrqk 245 unit5 for the Midwest link repeater system all of our repeaters are fully backed up will work on standalone within a 50-mile radius when the power goes down when they're link in we from the east coast to the West Coast I also recommend buying a any tone mobiles they're also program to portable repeaters using your vehicle to get the farthest distance get on UA-cam to see how to program them they're really easy to program.
Wouxun (supposedly pronounced "ocean") KG-UV8H uses same battery as KG-935G.
What was that laminated Charts that you took out the KG-UV9D Mate Box?
GMRS repeaters are less abundant the further east you go because of the terrain (lots of hills and trees). People should buy the radio that will have the network to function where they live - and for many that will be the UV5R.
I have two UV-5Rs. I’m not licensed for anything, yet, so I can only listen. However, I can listen to repeaters on 2 Meters and 70 Centimeters that are around 20 miles away, and I have the local GMRS repeater that is less than a mile from my house programmed into both radios, and can listen on them and the signal is perfectly clear, full quieting. I’m thinking about getting some friends to have all of us get GMRS licenses and GMRS UV-5Rs, and we’ll have our own network If communications go down. A plus is our city is the highest elevation in our metro area.
interesting.350.00 per radio. I have 12 Baofeng UV-5Rs for my family with accessories for 610.00. This includes back ups in faraday cages and at resupply locations. I can reach out from Sam's Point to Goshen (25.6 miles), using a Nagoya 771 antenna. Plus my UV-5Rs can transmit on 2M/1.25M/70cm/Marine/GMRS/MURS, which your radio can not. And maybe the reason you can hear better than the other guy with his Baofeng has to do with your antenna.
Finally someone telling us the best radio to buy among all the junk out there! Thanks.
one issue with the UV5R is that so many are made the quality control isn’t the best. So one could work great and another one sucks.
I bought these same radios and it’s still in the box. I don’t know how to use them. I would love to see a video tutorial how to use them!
Same lol..
A walkthrough video, tutorial on using ham band radios is not practical. They're simply is far too much information that needs to be studied and learned. That cannot be done in a video.
There's lots of tutorials on UA-cam for many types of radios. Just start with buying two handheld radios and practice communicating with your family and friends. Making mistakes is the best way to learn. Forgetting to turn the volume up or accidentally changing frequency are two simple mistakes we all have made. Joining a radio club helps immensely as there's a lot to learn and club members love to share ( there are exceptions and some clubs aren't as friendly as ours.) Radios get complicated though and it helps if you're a little geeky. Or else get help setting yours up, especially connecting to repeaters.
Start by watching videos on how to program them from scratch. Put in the FRS channels and start practicing with them. Keep the power under 2 watts, you are just practicing. Once you realize how to program them, it will start to be fun.
New to radio here. So GMRS is not good for emergency?
I have four GMRS and two UV5R and both are good for emergencies.
Is that GMRS range still possible since the gvmnt shut down the mygmrs website and there are no longer internet repeaters? Thank you! Appreciate your videos! 🙏🏻
I have my ham tag and gmrs tag. I have Icom and Yeasu radios and about 10 Baofengs UV82L, UV5R, and UV5RX models and I have a Wouxun kg-uv899. I find I use my UV82L the most. For several months, I carried both my FT60R and the 82L with the same signal stick antenna because I didn't trust the cheap Baofeng. I found I couldn't tell the difference (nor could people I talked to) in received or transmitting between the two radios. I have beat the heck out of the 82 and it still works great. Plus it costs less than $20. But, I'm going to check out your Wouxun KGUV9.
This was an excellent video you've presented...I am going out to buy my first transceiver and looking for that great anniversari kit. You are an excellent speaker !
I'm going to be buying my first radio and getting my license then when it cost $35 I would like to know if this radio is good for me to transmit on the this type of frequency grms uvr5 plus
the uv-5r can be turned up on the chip from the inside
You can communicate on FRS and GMRS frequencies no problem with about 20 miles range on a UV5R with a good antenna and low interference.
You also don't need a license or to transmit to learn how to use a radio. And the license for ham is cheaper and really not that difficult for a technician license.
Ok, I think the title is a bit too strongly worded. I was expecting some major issue but then you link to it for purchase. I get it, if its not an "emergency" radio you would use but I thought the title was the main point of the video and something critically detrimental about it was going to be exposed.
Great video. Keep up the good work! I see the plus version of the Wouxun KG-935 has some nice improvements if you don't mind paying about $70 Canadian extra.
I've been a HAM for 25 yrs. Been on CB for 10 yrs before that. Certified Electronic Tech, built my own transmitters and amplifiers. I own Icom, Yaesu, Alinco, an Baofeng - the Baofeng work just as good, Maybe better than some of the High Priced Name Brand. PERIOD! Shut up an get over it!
Just ordered 2 UV-5G Plus radios for $68.95. my first GMRS radios. You gotta start somewhere.......🙂
I bought one also. I love the display.
Reception difference doesn't make sense to me at all especially since you are emphasizing transmission power. I remember in the barracks back in the 70's, people would argue over who had the better stereo - one guy's had .05% less wow and flutter in a freq range outside the human hearing range. This video makes me feel like I'm back in the 70's again. Thank you.
He is right, but is you have 5R with a good roof antenna, you should make some noise, but I feel better with 50W or 110watts or more- I am not talking for GMRS.
There are tests on UA-cam in which UV5RTP aka UV5R8W emit 8.1 - 9.9 w from their power anps. Using a Nagoya NA-771 antenna, ( 2.15 dB,
multiplier is 1.64 x), the ERP for these results would be 13.28 - 16.24 w
Interesting video. I don't have a lot of different brand experience under my belt yet but I think I prefer radios with the old fashioned display (I think it's called monochrome LCD) over the ones with the more modern smartphone style display.
I think the key to this stuff is figuring out how to integrate it into your regular life somehow so that the gear gets used often enough during good times that people are comfortable using it during stressful times. I'm just at a loss as to how to encourage family and neighbors to integrate "old man tech" like radio in this age of mobile phones and satellite internet. Maybe a weekly neighborhood 'net' with prize drawings or something?
I use the KG1000+, 935, and Q10 as my personal radios. (All form buy 2way radio) then I have over 30 HTs and 4 mobiles. I started with a UV5R for camping…………. Now I’m dual licensed and RF is a part of my daily life.
Also forgot to mention, I have/use a Btech (Baofeng's US-made brand) AMP-V25D that I use with my UV-5R to add some wattage if needed. Of course at the price of that amp, I could have bought a more expensive radio, but not necessarily much more wattage (there's certainly no 25W handheld). I also like that I can drop a UV-5R or lend them out and I don't cry what happens to them. Re: signal, I'd highly recommend checking/updating the firmware, definitely makes a difference about half the time. Pay attention to exactly what version of the uv-5r you have. I'd also recommend the Baofeng software rather than chirp for managing the firmware of a BF
Btech is US distributor. The radios are still made in china.
@@theoriginaldashriprock K whatevs
@@pthithic you can change your post to make it correct
I'm going to be buying a radio and I'd like to know if the radio is good for me to trust me on for me to get a $35 license uv 5r plus
Thank you for all the good information. I need to work on my emergency communication plan and this was helpful. I know it’s a little off subject, but the stock UV5R antenna has a bad reputation. You may want to get a better antenna before you take it to your next event.
So if the grid goes down what would you recommend
I do have a few expensive HT for me. On group activities I hand out about 7 [locked] UV5R and four BF888 to family and friends with no worries.
My early experience was with the Baofeng GT-3, which is practically identical to the UV-5R. Using the stock rubber duck antenna the performance was not impressive but when I switched to a 17.25" whip antenna there was a huge difference. I was able to communicate clearly over 7 miles up a twisting forest canyon with no problems at all. When their batteries started failing I bought 10 UV-5rs, extra batteries for each one and whip antennas - for less than the price of a single Yaesu. I have no trouble hitting the repeater in town, also 7+ miles away and on the far side of a hill. I have radios to pass out to like-minded neighbors, and provided they are kept dry and not abused I think they're totally adequate.
I listen to any band using SDR on my laptop if I want to know what's happening in Texas or Europe but I don't need to talk to them. I don't need 50 watts and a base station because I don't plan on being RDFed for blasting out things I don't even talk about.
What antenna did you use on the baofeng during your "test" ? Was it the original? A $20 upgrade could match or beat your way more expensive wouxun.
Get your tech license and use repeaters ! Goes 20 plus miles ! Do a ham cram and get licensed in one day !
Yes you're absolutely right that handheld you're holding right now is very good they are a great company😊
Why do so many LDS people prep and what are they prepping for?
I have GMRS and Amateur licenses for radio operation. They are great for use, each in their own realm. GMRS is great for family/local use. I highly recommend getting your Amateur license also. Get your amateur license and learn to operate the equipment, make friends and join groups/nets to have people that can help when SHTF. The access to VHF/UHF ham repeaters allows for local, regional and world wide communications when linked, as with the East Coast Reflector. HF radio enables you to have direct, world wide comms.
It's an affordable starter H/T. With the right antenna, you can reach a few miles.
I live in Central Illinois and have a daughter, son in law, and grandchildren in St.louis area. We understand what is coming down the pipe and know we need a family communication plan ASAP. Can you please help us?
Thanks
What the total cost for the set up your telling us about
my uv5’s are for fun use and as if they get damaged, lost, stolen, they are cheap to replace.
being used as a use radio in the csm,
but if all goes south my hand helds are yaesu vx8dr and vx6dr ham radios. plus a couple mobile and pack radios. then my ic7300 using as a base radio.
couple scanners, base and hand held.
and couple cb radios. ( no hand held here).
then two ways to get gps, might buy more?
yes normal compasses and knowledge of how to read and use paper maps.
everything has at least one back up. including power supplys.
I don’t know anything about this! I’m in phoenix Arizona my parents and friends live in Orange County California. How do I do this? Thanks Ron
Distance or concern of all I want to talk to California from Nashville Milwaukee from Mississippi, Florida to California. Can the MURS do that or do I need to go ham?
MURS will not reach much beyond your immediate neighborhood.
Do you try to upgrade the anttena of uv5r? If has a better receive than stock anttena? I think anttena has a big difference. Your wouxun has a long stock anttena better than short uv5r stock anttena.
Nagoya, Diamond, and Signal Stick have excellent antenna upgrades for the UV-5R.
Where do you get the laminated list?
Great video David! Is the Wouxun KGUV9D a super heterodyne radio? Not a radio on a chip? Can you explain why your base radio is transmitting on 446.100 but receiving on 146.565? Is this so others listening on a band can't hear the full communication? I was just about to buy the GMRS version of the Wouxun KGUV980P. So you think the UHF/VHF is better for distance than the GMRS? Since it's UHF, can you pick up and communicate with CB? Sorry about all the questions. Thanks again!!
KG-UV9D is a superheterodyne radio. Ham and GMRS serve two different purposes and one is only "better" than the other relative to your intended user or application. Despite there being no real technical restrictions, you cannot LEGALLY communicate with CB radios using ham radios.
CB radio is amplitute modulation at 26 MHz. GMRS is frequency modulation at 462 MHz. They will not cross.
Having now watched the whole video, I think your comms plan is excellent. Im not sure of the legality of xband repeating in the USA, its illegal where I am, but I wouldnt care if I actually need it someday.
Ive not tested the baofeng next to a more expensive radio at the same time, so I cant comment, but the baofengs are good to begin with as you say.
The quansheng is interesting because there are custom firmwares being developed with great functionality. Build quality seems ok too.
If I were to go for an expensive handheld, id go yeasu. for 200 Euro I can start to get a yeasu, and I bet its going to outperform the wouxun.
I have an ft-8900r as my base, with a diamond dual band antenna like the ones you show, and have tried the xband repeating, allowing my baofengs to reach home from 4km away, and go out to the other side of the area. I did that in a country where its legal :)
Your comms plan for family comms is exactly what mine is. I actually do plan to use, and have, several PMR radios in the mix which would allow me to just give them to children etc and still have them able to contact the repeater.
I have an ft817nd for long range info gathering as I mentioned, however it doesnt really form part of an emergency plan.
Look into Rattlegram, shredpix and assempix. I have succesfully sent images a few km with just two baofengs and phones..... in a country where legal to do so of course. Pics can be useful,
My next purchase which arrives in a week or so, is a couple of meshtastic nodes, and I plan to try ATAK on android with them....... could be a very useful tool
In a true shtf scenario, none of the rules of laws are going to apply. In other words the FCC cannot come after you for illegally using ham bands.
First off, I always love the decor in your house. Really nice!
The thing about mobile antenna on a car is how are you routing that feed line into the cab? Are you just mashing it in the door?
Depends on the car. On a truck, usually you'd route it down under the cab, along the frame rail (watch to clear exhaust or anything else that could cause an issue), up the firewall and through a hole to behind the dash. but sometimes there is an access hole with a plug at the back of the cab. Depends on the vehicle. That said, I don't do any of that, I just mash it in the door :). I duct tape it nicely with fancy truck-matching red duct tape, and because of the weatherstripping, it doesn't really get smashed. It's uglier than the other way, but it works. Depending on the vehicle, there may be other options also.
@@72dodge340 I appreciate you admitting you ultimately just mash it in the door ;)
Never trust a guy with plastic fruit. LOL. J/K.
I still find it insane that a little 2-way 5 watt radio requires a license to legally operate it? Way too much government over reach...
Also what about one of those EMP bombs, any radios work after that?
After an EMP?? My Guess is you now have an expensive paperweight...
Always keep comms in an EMP bag when not in use. If you can, keep a spare set in a EMP bag for JUST IN CASE SHTF EMP hit while you DX'ing.
Remember, a radio is designed to receive Freq, and a EMP is nothing more then a super powerful FREQ. EPM= Electric Magnetic Pulse.
Hope this helps
Good
@@angacamthehobbit-PapaPrepper I was just curious about an EMP and sort of figured mass electronic meltdown of everything.
Back to the days of ...---... I suppose. Enjoying this channel though as I have a lot to learn about in radio communications!
@@lcee6592 No,EVERTHING doesn't stop working after an EMP. Do a little research and you will find a lot of REAL information.
@@angacamthehobbit-PapaPrepperUnless you have it hooked up to the AC mains,that radio would most likely be fine if it was in a car or a home.
If you want to see why you need a license to operate on the amateur bands,get near a truck stop and turn on channel 19. The license process filters out a lot of trash.
Do you know anything about the HYS 25 watt radio? would it be a good radio to have, comes with a 4000mAh Li-ion battery.
I'm a noob to the radio stuff but been trying to learn as much as I can. Live in western Maine area with a lot of hills, mountains, trees, just a lot of obstructions. I like what your showing here have been thinking of this type of set up with no clue and your video has help me to better understand. Just looking for a set up that will work in this area and be able to get a 20 mile range. I'm starting with no knowledge of radios at all.
20 bucks and can be programmed to pick up all way from 100 to 999 mhz and if u Manuel scan can go to 0001.000
I'm wanting to try to get my gmrs license.
I've been wanting to do amateur radio but I have heard it's very complicated and the test is very difficult .
I wonder if there are any ham radio classes to enroll in .
Try Ham Radio Crash Course here on UA-cam. For GMRS content - check out The Not A Rubicon channel.
The entry Ham license test isn’t that hard- and the HRCC channel mentioned above will help you and there are free exam prep apps you can download to practice on
The HAM test is 35 questions, and costs about $24. It lasts for ten years. You can renew it for about $10 without ever taking a test again.
Wow, you basically have a small scale repeater there if you can connect to it from 50 miles out, hell of a footprint you have there. Wow.
There's supposed be a new Wouxun GMRS Radio that has come forth that is suppose to supersede the one that you have
just mentioned and that's the Wouxun KG-Q10G which is a very solid performer although it costs quite a bit more!
Not sure why the belt clip being on the battery is better than on the radio. My UV-5R has the clip on the radio, I have multiple 3800 mAh batteries if one dies I change battery and don’t have to have another belt clip on that battery! It is a quick 3 second change and done! Having the Baofeng is nice as it is small but when you have big hands and fingers, pushing the tiny buttons is difficult, however putting the 3800 battery on makes it fit nicer with my hands.