Part 1. Real World Test for GMRS handheld antennas!
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- Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
- This is my first antenna testing video, so there have been many comments on how I can improve. A lot of these antennas are all stock, because that's all I had at the time. Since then, I have many, many more videos so make sure you check them out as well!
Check out this new site I built to see what items I use on a daily basis! It's still under construction, but functional.
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Handheld Radios:
Wouxun GMRS KG-UV9GX bettersaferadi...
Wouxun HAM KG-UV9PX bettersaferadi...
TIDradio TD-H8 2nd Gen combo amzn.to/3HBY5wP
TIDradio TD-H3 GMRS amzn.to/3U8lJrS
Baofeng UV-5G Plus amzn.to/3WhXRmY
Baofeng GM-5RM amzn.to/3WijS55
Radioddity GM-30 amzn.to/3QnPpyP
Baofeng UV-5R 8 W 2 pack amzn.to/47YMpyN
Baofeng UV-5R 8W amzn.to/3UVhBfO
BTECH GMRS PRO RADIO amzn.to/3wUR341
WOUXUN KG-UV9D Plus amzn.to/3HzymoT
Surecom SW33 Plus amzn.to/3J94IaJ
Surecom Power Meter amzn.to/3Ud5PwQ
Surecom Simplex Repeater amzn.to/3WjAxFM
Dummy Load 100W amzn.to/47OxXcF
12” jumper amzn.to/3vVeutO
Handheld Radio Antennas:
Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck SMA Female amzn.to/454uEyB
Nagoya 701g antenna amzn.to/4bHHo0K
Smiley Super Stick 465 Mhz amzn.to/4bM5jv5
Nagoya NA 771G amzn.to/3UjymRw
Abbree 771 GMRS amzn.to/4aT22u9
Signal Stick 440 signalstuff.co...
ABBREE 18.8” antenna amzn.to/47Y3oRY
ABBREE 42.5” antenna amzn.to/49cECOS
ABBREE 28.3” antenna amzn.to/42eeIZ5
Mobile Radios:
BTECH 50v2 GMRS Mobile Radio amzn.to/3vVe2f6
BTECH 50v2 programming cable amzn.to/42hYez5
TYT-9800 Plus amzn.to/3Q4KAu2
Mobile Radio antennas and mounting:
32” 6db gain mobile radio antenna amzn.to/3JY1mYJ
Midland Ghost GMRS antenna amzn.to/3vWYXty
NMO coax amzn.to/3vTm2NL
NMO mount L bracket amzn.to/3HBXf39
NMO mount Hood Lip bracket amzn.to/3vUbqhu
NMO magnetic mount amzn.to/4bbwLTN
NMO base cover for car wash amzn.to/3Ogfuib
Base Station Equipment:
BTECH 50v2 GMRS Mobile Radio amzn.to/3vVe2f6
BTECH 50v2 programming cable amzn.to/42hYez5
TYT-9800 Plus amzn.to/3Q4KAu2
BTECH 30amp inverter amzn.to/3SgJmfF
TRAM 1486 GMRS base antenna amzn.to/3SBVlGe
KMR400 coax amzn.to/3UbrHbY
Road Pro external speaker amzn.to/48NkJOX
Lightning Arrestor amzn.to/3vVWb7J
Coax 259 to HT adapter amzn.to/3vTAa9E
30W Solar Panel amzn.to/3SyoNwI
Hey everyone! I just added a second channel for Firearms and Gear Tips and Reviews. Be sure to jump over there and subscribe to that one as well to get some good pointers on firearms, training and lots of EDC gear! www.youtube.com/@GunsandGearTipsandReviews-r6g
I reached 30 miles with my nagoya antenna and tidrad yesterday. crystal clear audio. And yes i was standing on a mountain.
I want to do a test from the top of "Tower of the America's" in San Antonio, trying to hit a repeater in Port O'conner Texas on the coast! I think the Tower of Americas observation deck is around 750' high and the POC repeater is on top of a water tower. That would be a cool video, almost 150 miles!
You need to keep the antenna pointing ☝️ upwards not to the side and talk a little slower and your truck isnt helping. Your rushing the test chill bro.
I agree. This test is very rudimentary and the creator has created too many variables. The radio should be set down in one place and then use a speaker mic to conduct the test. Especially on UHF, moving the radio a 1/2” in any direction can be the difference between being into the receiver on the other end or not.
Thank you for doing this. I know the effort is time and money! Subbed.
The simplex repeater is what made it possible. My wife got tired if holding the radio and gearing me say "how do I sound now "?!!!!
I don’t get it. I sit in my house with my h8 and hit repeaters 15 miles away clear as a bell. I’m in the city. I have done 10 mile simplex test from in the house and sounded way way more clear then these did at 4 miles. I guess there are alot of factors. Anytime I have seen these test done in open flat ground, they do poorly. I just can’t imagine doing that shitty at 7 miles. I have alot of the same antennas as well, but I use my abbree whip the most because it covers gmrs 70cm and 2m with a 1:1 -1:7 swr acrossthose bands. I was going to tell you. With the swr meter that you have, to get a true accurate reading on power and swr, hold the radio straight up and down and the come in from behind it with your hand using your thumb, index finger and middle finger and grab it, then push the talk button. I was taught that by the manufacturer and it is extremely accurate. In my opinion, using a dummy load when testing a radio is pointless because you don’t use a dummy load to talk. The power and swr can change drastically with each antenna. Depending on what antenna I use, I can get up to 18 watts out of my h8 with an swr of 1:1. I realize people use the dummy load to find the true power of the radio, but it still don’t make sense.
I can hit my repeater 29 miles away, but it's also 400 ft above ground level. It's easy to hit a strong tower. This also was my very first video. I urge you to watch my newer ones that has a lot more experience.
I would be interested in seeing if SWR of each correlates with performance. Or maybe length being matched with a fraction of wavelength (should also correlate with SWR).
Hey everyone! The Nagoya 701G arrived today, the 440 Signal Stick should be here early next week, and the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck should be here around the 28th. I will get a Part 2 showdown video up around March 1. See yall soon and thanks for watching! Keep the suggestions coming and I will crank out as many videos as I can! David - WRZU 993. (Dont forget to subscribe, Like and hit that bell!)
I'm very curious to see how the Smiley Antenna performs, as well as the Signal Stick.
@NathanChilton I'm editing the video as we speak, and the Smiley performed pretty impressive. It should be uploaded tonight, but honestly the wind was so bad yesterday I will have to do another one. It really wasn't a fair chance for each antenna.
@@NathanChilton Did you see the Part 2 with the Smiley and Signal Stick?
@@FirstUnitedTactical Yes. I watched it right away. Thank you for doing this for us!
I accidentally put a stubby duck on my uv-5G+… I think maybe I’ve given up a far or so…but it’s clear… and soooo darn small! I don’t think it’s coming back off anytime soon.
Smiley Antennas make some good uns too. People might like their Stubby Ducks. You can get them centered on 465MHz which makes a good GMRS 'tenna
Yeah I bought the 440 stick, but it's not too impressive with the testing I did. I have a new video, same locations, with new antennas. It will be uploaded later tonight. Check it out when you get a chance, but I will end up doing a 3rd with different locations to get a better idea.
your squelch setting can make a big difference in getting those weak signals.
True. I normally keep my radios at 3 (which can differ from radio to radio), but that "cutout" sometimes could have very well been it! Thanks! I never thought of that. Next time I will just have the squelch off on both.
For all you people who have been testing radios while seated in a metal car, this is how it should be done. Not only is the roof of the car blocking signals, your car electronics, radio, gps, heater, air conditioning, electric windows, back up camera all create electronic noise. This guy is teaching all of us a lesson about range. Thank you sir. When you determine the best antenna do you mind testing 3 of the most popular radios. The Baofeng UV-5G, The BTech GMRS Pro, and your favorite Wouxun. Thanks again.
I will definitely do that! I'm thinking the Nagoya 771g, Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck and the Diamond (when it comes in). You got it! Thanks for watching!
@@FirstUnitedTacticalAnything on SDR, LoraWan, Jammers, Scanners?
@@MetaVizions I'm way too new for those! I honestly don't know anything about them. I'm just hear trying to answer the basic questions that most people would have regarding radios, antennas and power meters / SWR meters. I'm sure one day I will be there, but for now, I hate to disappoint you.
I would be interested in seeing if SWR of each correlates with performance. Or maybe length being matched with a fraction of wavelength (should also correlate with SWR).
@@ohtaren8052 I will do a video with all of these antennas on two separate meters. The only odd thing is some of them are the factory "extended range" antennas that come with some radios and they are for 136/440. Take that Baofeng for example, everyone on the planet has the $20 UV 5R, and that's where that particular antenna came from. It works surprisingly well, even though it reads high 2's on a meter with GMRS channels (mainly 15-30 readings). I just got the Abbree $8 15" antenna in (orange), which is tuned for GMRS, and it actually reads a 1.1, which blew me away. Even the Nagoya 771g's read 1.4 and up. The only thing I have done with it (Abbree) is "kerchunk" the repeater that's 20 miles away on a commercial tower. The signal back is much stronger than the Smiley 5/8 or the 771g. I believe it will be the best "15" extended range antenna I have so far. Can't wait to find out.
Can you please try the same Antennas but in heavy timber? I'd like too see that.
I love in Oregon cost range.
WRVA657 HERE.
Thanks
Nice to meet you. Right off the bat I would suggest the Nagoya 771g. That's you're best bet. We don't have heavy hardwoods here in South Texas so I can't really get you a comproble test. There have been other comments saying that the 771g works best for their woods. I will be doing a more realistic test soon, with trees and small hills, but the trees here aren't like your pines.
@@FirstUnitedTactical thanks didn't know u were in Texas...
How do u think of
Tid771 too the 771g?
What's your thoughts 🤔
@@legallimitoutdoors9917 definitely watch Part 2. They both are extremely good. The TID never ceases to amaze me.... check out Part 2 with better antennas.
Can you tell us how and where you had your simplex repeater for this test? Did you use a stock antenna, or a 7.8dBd base station antenna mounted 50ft up with an LMR-400 feedline?
Tidradio H8 with a Nagoya 771g, sitting on top of the roof of a car. It must be the second video I say it. This is one of 3.
For stock antennas the Tidradio H8 short and long work really well for me
I wonder if you'd get some even better results with your HT if you added a rat-tail to it.
Absolutely. I wanted to keep this as simple as possible, and just show basic antenna performance. The tail is coming soon!
very extensive testing--- impressive. I'd like to see the same setups with a "tiger tail" attacted. good work. Will-KD2MZC
Hey Will. I will be doing a video one day on the tail. You watched my first video, which wasn't impressive to me after I did the 3rd! They get better and better, but the 2nd has a lot of wind interference. The 3rd really shines on range with different antennas. I have three videos I'm planning on doing shortly, and the counterpoise or tiger tail will be the 4th, or mixed in. Check out the other vids, especially the Abbree 771g that's only a couple weeks old. That video turned out amazing.
I would love to see where the ZBM2 Industries Foul Weather QP Whip stands in this line up
Woah! I've never seen that antenna before. Do you have one or know anyone that does?
Compare Nagoya 771, Abbree 771, and baufeng 15 inch stock antenna.
I did. You are seeing part 1. Look at the other two
i am wondering if a "tiger tail" might help
Absolutely. I wanted to keep this as simple as possible, but yes I will be adding a counterpoise and showing the differences soon.
Ive had good luck with the Luiton LT-771G 462 tuned antennas. Swr was really good, basically same as the Nagoya 771g but $17 for a luiton 2 pack vs $21 for a single Nagoya. I had decent short to mid range luck with the Nagoya 701g, but the luiton beat it on long distance.
Thanks for the info! I've seen those antennas, but thought since they were so much cheaper that others similar, they wouldn't perform. The Midland mobile I have coming is actually a Luiton. It's the 32". I'm anxious to see how it stacks up against the Midland Ghost. I do have the 440 Signal Stick, Smiley 5/8 Slim and a 701g on the way for the next test.
Great video. Thanks for doing this. At the 7.6 mile test, there was a very big antenna in the background... I wonder if that had any impact on the 7.6 mile tests?
I took that into consideration, but I doubt it since the repeater was on my side. I've thought about moving from that area. There are still other comparisons I will be doing in the next week or so. Take a look at the comments on which antennas are here and on the way. HT and mobile.
Arnt they broadcasting units illegal? They basically make the band un-useable
I was transmitting on GMRS 7, way out in the country, and asked if anyone was using the freq before each location test. I see how it would seem like they would be "in the wrong", but it actually does not interfere with anyones transmissions. If you for example were out there and tried to talk to a friend on that same channel, it would pick up your transmission and repeat it back over that same freq. I'm sure most people who didn't know what it was would be very confused, but it doesn't interfere. Plus it was a Saturday afternoon in a sleepy little one horse town. It is mainly used for camping or hiking purposes to extend your normal talking range to "double" the distance. If you put that little repeater between you and another camp, it would simply receive it and broadcast it that much farther from that point. Hope that didn't get too over-explained. It's a simple "Simplex Repeater". But, it is completely wrong to set it to a normal repeater channel like 15-22. That would definitely make people angry! I used 7 because it's just a normal FRS/GMRS freq that no one uses.
Try staying back 10-15 feet from the truck on all of them, just to make sure. You still walked closer on some but further on others. We will take your word for it if it works or not. You can test again when getting closer to the truck to see what range it stops working? 🤔 I am total newb to this GMRS and ham radio stuff, I didn't even buy one yet but plan on it soon. Thanks for the tests, I'll be looking up these antennas when I get mine. ☺️
Would it be possible for them to make a thin wire antenna that you can attach to a drone or a long pole to put higher in the air and see if you can get a better signal? 🤔
New to the radio thing what is a good gmrs radio that I don't have to have License to operate but do won't an Hand hailed mike
you have to have a GRMS license to operate on the GRMS frequencies at those wattages. GMRS and FRS are the same frequencies, without the repeater channels, but with different wattage. If you go to a camping store and buy a two pack of little walkie talkie's, chances are they are FRS frequencies. FRS and GMRS frequencies are the same in most cases, but different wattages used. You do not need a license for FRS to transmit at .5W, but you do need a license for GMRS to transmit 5W on that same frequency.
You should test the smiley antenna… the 5/8 slim duck and stubby.
I have never wanted to buy a stubby because it's not a distance talker. Stubby may be good for a mile or two and that's it. But, I could be way off and it work wonders. Short antennas just don't receive anything like longer antennas.
Btech made a nagoya floatable antenna I grabbed, I mostly use signal sticks though. I do have a 701g and slim duck too, interested to see how they all stack up especially the slim duck bc it’s smaller than stock but seems to do really well
Yeah the Slim Duck is a super good antenna for its size. It actually stays on my H3 in place of all the others. What do you mean by floatable? Is it telescopic? Can you send me a link?
I just saw this comment is for Part 1. Look at Part 2 because I am testing the slim duck, 701g and signal! Check it out!
Why go with these radios vs Baofeng GRMS 9R?
Baofeng has a wide range of radios, and for the most part they are decent. TIDradio makes a better radio, with more features, for just a little more in cost. All of the low cost radios will have the pros and cons, and I just like TIDradio more than Baofeng. I have the UV-5G, UV-5G Pro and the GM-5RH. They are all good, but the H3 receives air band, and also displays the frequency and the channel name. It's easier to memorize the frequencies if you are constantly looking at them, along with the channel name. Baofeng does not do that.
Don’t forget any wind can affect uhf signals.
The wind was insane that day. I almost didn't even do it because of the wind, but I had just gotten the Smiley and Signal Stick so I wanted to see for myself! I talked about the wind in the shop part of the video, but I may have cut it out to shorten it. These videos are upwards of an hour before editing. I do at least 5 call outs with each antenna at each location, and only post the best receive. There was a lot of interference that day.
Do a chest rig remote antenna signal test.
@osceolagunslingers867. This is actually my very first video, and they get better the newer you watch. The main reason they get better is because I read the comments and do what others tell me to do in order to get a better test. No one has ever mentioned a chest rig, and I'm not sure what that is. Can you explain?
Awesome video thanks! I noticed that my ABREE even longer antenna, doesn't work as well as my little Nagoya. Interesting that you got the same results!
I just did another video today, same locations, but with a Smiley 5/8 slim duck, Nagoya 701G and a 440 Signal Stick. It will be uploaded tomorrow. Here's a spoiler, buy a Smiley 5/8 and a Nagoya 771g. It should be uploaded tomorrow so look for it. Thanks Chad!
@GoldenAmmo it's the best I have found!
Hey there what kind of quansheng radio and antenna was the winner
Part 2 is better than Part 1. Take a look at the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck and the Nagoya 771G. This one was mainly just factory antennas.
The thing about testing is consistency and controlling variables. This is a good example of controlling variables and producing usable results. There are a plethora of variables that can affect the range but the reason this video is valuable is because antennas are likely the number one thing to consider. You can get a mediocre radio with a good antenna and do well. Reverse that and not so much. What better radios typically bring you are features, not range, though that is not a rule.
Once you have a radio and a good antenna what you need to become proficient with is:
1. Utilizing whatever useful aspects are in your area
a. Repeaters. Many repeaters have much more power than even mobile GMRS and they employ item b below.
b. Terrain. GMRS and all other UHF as well as VHF are line of sight due to their high frequency. This makes foliage, buildings, hills whatever an issue. Therefore, elevation is king because it gets you line of sight and will help avoid many of the obstructions.
2. Knowing your radio and what it takes to make a contact. Knowing that moving your position even a few feet might make a difference. Knowing that cars are semi faraday cages is good to remember (you can mount a good mobile antenna on your cars roof and hook your HT to it and do quite well). Overall, practice with your radio in a variety of locations/situations and learn the ins and outs.
Very well said!
You might see me read this in an upcoming video. Very easy to understand!
Thank you both very much. Going out to see what my variety of antennae can do for several of my radios. I will keep each of these elements in mind as I perform the tests. Expecting two Smiley stubbies and plan to buy more of the two lengths of tuned gmrs antennae. Excellent video, new subscriber.
@Tsch6373 here's the latest video with lots of antennas and lots of radios!
ua-cam.com/video/T2vyv5-dulk/v-deo.htmlsi=49NaX5x3ZEE0UKLF
So, which one won? It wasn't made clear.
It was just to show what folks may experience at different ranges. It's not guaranteed results for everyone. Can't go wrong with the Nagoya 771g though.
Excellent work sir ! Glad to subscribe to your channel!
Nice to meet you, and can't wait to hear what you have to say about some other videos in the future!
I like the way you did this test. 👍 I’d like to know how will the ABBREE AR-771 works if you feel like testing it out. Thanks good video.
I've been seeing them, but never ordered because they were so inexpensive. I just ordered one. I also did another video today with the Smiley 5/8, Nagoya 701g and the 440 Signal Stick. I will have that Part 2 uploaded tomorrow. It's pretty good. The Smiley and the Nagoya 771g are the clear winners. Watch that one tomorrow night and let me know what you think!
Well I got one, and right out of the packaging it showed a 1.2 on the SWR meter. The Nagoya 771g didn't even do that well. I will be testing it in the field soon!
Antenna questions: I've been looking at options for vehicle antennas. In my searching, I've come across some that state "no ground plane". Does this mean ground plane not included or ground plane not required?
Question 2 I'll preface with the old "there are no stupid questions" adage. Please understand that I come from a CB/trucking background. Is it beneficial or even possible to run dual matching antennas? I know it's not the best coax, but a lot of trucks now come factory pre-wired with a split coax with so-239 ends intended for dual CB antennas. Can that be used to run dual 70cm antennas?
If it sounds too hair-brained and actually is a stupid question, assume I'm asking for a friend. 😂
I wish we had the option of these cheaper radios, we can only use the 477mhz range UHF radios here, 27mhz CB radios unless we want to get our armature radio licence.
You should test mobile ones next would be great!
I have the Midland Ghost, Tram 1126-B, and will be ordering the Midland MXTA26 6db antenna. The Ghost outperforms the TRAM by far, and I'm sure the taller MXTA will run laps around the Ghost. I will definitely do it, but my radio is strong, and I will be driving for an hour to get to the breaking point on Tx.
@@FirstUnitedTactical awesome 😎 I ordered the Nagoya ut 72g and it sucks lol I can hit the repeater better with the stock long antenna that came with the tid h8
I just got the "fake" Midland 32" mobile, and I'm blown away. I've always had CB and 4 or 5' tall whip antennas, and finally wanted to get away from that. This is why I had the Ghost and that little 6" tall TRAM. I put this on last night and the SWR meter showed a solid 1.1 straight out of the package. This morning I turned it on and I was picking up repeaters 40 miles away from me that I never could with the Ghost or TRAM. This is the one I ordered: amzn.to/3uR5S7g
Can a person hook up a roof mount antennae to a handheld radio such as the h3?
Absolutely! amzn.to/3VpENCI
@@FirstUnitedTactical thanks
I just wanted to stop and thank you for the video and the review, this is exactly what I am doing today. I am wanting to spend more money but not a lot, so do I buy a magnet mount to go with my HT and have fun there, or buy me a couple of these to go with my UV 5G twins. Thanks for the content, new subscriber! 👍
Strictly solar power source, to power radio coms/etc, that’s portable and convenient?
Hey Andy. So a magnet mount will always perform better than an HT antenna, because it's a more solid ground plane. I will also be testing the Smiley 5/8 slim duck and Signal Stick 440 by March 1. My truck has a Btech 50v2 mobile with a Midland Ghost antenna. It works nice, and I also have the adapter coax to go from the main antenna coax into my handheld if I needed to.
@AnDy_ToM22 at my house I have a small 30w solar panel that's connected to two red top Optima batteries. But, that's for power outage to run my base station. I just carry a small solar power bank in my truck if I need to charge handheld or cell if my truck battery is dead.
@@FirstUnitedTactical that’s very helpful! So you say the ghost over the UT 72g? Is there another right there with them both or better? Once paired with the HTs. I’m going to do it right for home base, so I need to “get by with little money spent” till I can buy the LMR 400 (65ft)and the 1000g 50w. Still don’t know what base antenna but that’s what I’m thinking so far. And it’s definitely not the cheapest of combinations!
@@FirstUnitedTactical I’m still learning and doing my homework. In my fantasy world: Repeater/base station/ Coms in Case 1, Case 2 is solar/power supply/etc. Grab/Go
That ridiculous Abree is a dissapointing joke. Pathetic for something that big and ugly it better perform but it doesnt.
Yep. In the third antenna video, with the abbree 771g, that 18.8 did better, but nothing like it should. Take a look at that third one:
ua-cam.com/video/xMLXt_di1J0/v-deo.htmlsi=hbC9yYK4MEcGJrdN
Not fair you need to step back from truck at least 15 ft
@legallimitoutdoors9917 The description says it was my first video and I've learned a lot since then. There were a lot worse things I did compared to being close to my truck....
@@FirstUnitedTactical bla bla bla... anyone
That knows how to run a hand held ham radio or gmrs should all know this...
About staying clear
And back up from your vehicle
Thanks for the test on the antennas. Can you test the BTECH GMRS PRO radio? I think it has an antennae that voids warranty if removed/changed for some reason. Thank you buddy.
Subscribed thanks for the vid I just got my 771 in the mail hahaha
I have a mag mount antenna from diamond on my car tuned for a specific frequency. Are there any antennas for a handheld that can be tuned? And what does that for the range? it would be nice to see that tested.
Have you tested the antennas by Sugnal Stuff. I like the small 440 andtenna, but would like to see how it tests. thanks
You actually watched my first video here. There are maybe 4 more videos that have the 440 in them, and one video it really kicked some butt. My favorite of all time is the Smiley 5/8 slim duck 465, but the Signal 440 won that battle.... To give you a quick link for that particular video, look here: (But, take a look at all of my video descriptions to see the field tests)
ua-cam.com/video/T2vyv5-dulk/v-deo.html
I put out videos each week, and most of them are for antennas.
Hey Randy, did you see my reply about the 440 videos? I put a link in the reply. Check it out!
@@FirstUnitedTactical Thanks!
@@FirstUnitedTactical Thanks!
Enter "First15" for 15% off PROMO CODE at TIDradio.com
Test the smiley 5/8 and standard gmrs
The Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck is ordered already (can't wait for that one). It will be another week away. Same thing with the Signal Stick. Which standard GMRS do you want to see?
Awesome😂 I was referring to the slim line none 5/8 as standard, thanks! Can’t wait for the test!
thanks
@DaytonaJim78 In other vids I've seen, the Smiley performs just as well as the 771g, and it's half the size. I was talking to someone last night and they said the ExpertPower 669 can be cut to work excellent with 465. We lost connection and I can't find anything online about it. Since it's cheap, I'm gonna start cutting and SWR testing to see if I can get it to work.
Hey Jim. The Nagoya 701G arrived today. Now just waiting on the Smiley (maybe next week?) and the 440 Signal Stick. I think by March 1 that video will be uploaded.
So what one was the best?
The 771G is the best out of these, but honestly I'm going to cut the Expert Power to a 465 range and test that. I also have a Signal Stick and a Smiley 5/8 slim duck on the way. Those will be clearly the winners in the short antennas. Look at some comments and replies to get more info on what's coming.
Thanks for this! Only comment I'd have, try to stand in the same position every time, and always a good ways away from the truck. Great video!
That was the 1st video, so part 2 and 3 corrected my position. 2 had too much wind, but 3 was ideal for TX and Rx. Take a look at that one with the Orange Abree 771g!
Thanks for the content. Was the radio you were calling to outdoors? Elevated? I bought a couple of Wouxun KG-UV9GXs to have ecomm capabilities with my daughter who lives about two miles away as the crow flies in a suburban environment. Mostly single and two story homes between us. Stock rubber duck antennas did not work. Bought the Smiley 1/4 and 5/8 wave aftermarket antennas from Better Safe Radio. They work a bit better. But no getting clear audio or the distances you are.
What are you thoughts? I was thinking of trying a mag mount set up with a 239 to sma converter to use the HT.
Suburban areas are always tough for one. I can tell you from experience that the radio you have will definitely make that trip, and the problem is your antenna. Go on Amazon and type in Midland Mobile 32" GMRS. I would attach the link but I'm on my cell. I just put one on my truck and I feel like I can hear Jupiter compared to the Midland Ghost antenna. It's $50, but it totally changed my mobile. You can put it at your house, and still run a jumper to the radio connection. The only downfall is you are anchored to wherever your antenna is. Don't want to run coax all over the house! The test I did was as flat as I could get it, no obstruction except for the 7 and 8 mile stretch. There was a small town between me and the repeater. Your radio surely has the power, and a mobile (mounted) antenna will work well. Oh, on UA-cam, search Ed Fong GMRS antenna. Some people are mounting them inside there house, at the window sill and talking miles!
Inaccurate because the static could be on the transmit or receive side and you would not know which. It could even be on both. Also antennas MUST be held vertical.
True, they must be vertical and I didn't realize it until I was editing. This is a basic example of normal antennas, and "normal" radios. Plus. Everyone's area will have different results, especially with other areas weather and electronic interference. Someone has already brought up the "vertical" issue, but all I can do from this point is correct it in the future. The base radio was a TID H8 with a Nagoya 771g, so that was a good setup. The repeater was a basic simplex repeater which simply broadcasted the same transmission back. I do understand there could be interference on the return though.
what about a bigger whip than the 18.8 ABBREE, we had monster ones we had in the service we kept folded until we need to extend it. kinda like to know the full range on them. 30 inch maybe more.
It think they offer a 48. There's 3 different ones, but I just didn't want to spend the money on it since this one was worse than the shorter 771g. Maybe I have a bad one. It's got high SWRs, so maybe it a defective unit.
Signal Stuff Signal Sticks are pretty good too. Made of NiTiNol a metal that is 45% Ti 55% Ni, retains its memory even when coiled up and when released goes back to being straight. Good antennas too.
They are awesome for 2/70, but not so much for 465. I'm gonna try and gave this new video uploaded today with it in it!
I have that same tidradio, same 771g but it's long to carry, good to know the stock one works pretty well.. I also have the b-tech gmrs pro radio.. I don't put the Nagoya on it because stock it's waterproof but with a Nagoya the antenna leaves a gap between the base and the radio... I haven't found one outside the stock that will keep it water tight so I would love to see how the stock b-tech gmrs pro antenna does. Its made by baufeng so I don't expect too much though the radio is like 154$ . There is a repeater I can hit with both though it's up on a mountain in NC and about 25 miles cross country. I'm down from it just outside the city.
Hey bud. So there is always a small black rubber seal gasket that comes with Nagoyas. It's easy to miss, so it probably got thrown away. Go to a hardware store for that. I know the gap you are talking about, and the Smiley 5/8 doesn't have the gap. But, still use a rubber seal on that radio. The pro is much more sensitive than the TID. BUT, did you get the TID extended range? It works like a champ also, and may "seal" that gap on the pro.
@FirstUnitedTactical I have the seal washer thing, it's up in the antenna...but there's still a gap at the base of the antenna..should I consider that ok? I wish I could send you a picture but I think you know what I mean... and thanks for your reply most won't or don't so I do appreciate it.
@FirstUnitedTactical I did but I use the Nagoya on the tid, it's the pro gmrs I'm worried about..
@@mattcarolina I know what you mean. Now I remember it was the Abbree that came with a wider washer that actually sealed it. I remember the Nagoya going up inside the base of the antenna. Check a hardware store
There's hundreds of washers that will do the job. Just make sure it squishes out the side as it's screwed down.
@FirstUnitedTactical thanks I will take it with me to the hardware store and see what I can find.. I have seen test where the factory set up of the b-tech gmrs pro slightly outperformed the wouxan with its factory set up .. if you get a chance to check one out I would love to see what you find..it seems like a nice little radio and having a digital compass and GPS ( I'm not even sure how to benefit from it) but it's pretty cool being able to send text and location though only to another gmrs pro radio at this time but full Bluetooth programming is nice as I don't own a computer except my smartphone. Thanks again glad I came across your video last night!
It seemed like the Ocean Q10 worked almost as well as the much larger antennas. Would love to slap one of those on my radio, do you have any links for it?
I don't, but I believe you can buy the antenna by itself at Buytwowayradios.com
That make an awesome factory antenna! The best factory if you ask me.
How about doing the GRMS portable repeaters? And if they're even worth or considering purchasing
I don't have a "real" portable repeater yet. I actually bought this little Surecom just for me testing for myself because my wife kept getting tired of saying "yes I can hear you!" It's definitely not the best equipment, but it gives a good idea, and it was only $50, so I thought why not!
I live like 20-30 miles from that area
Nice! Are in the city to get the Alamo Hub repeaters or more out in the country?
That's got to be hard to announce your call sign! Lots of q's and g's!
San Marcos,@@FirstUnitedTactical
Enjoyed your comparison. Subbed. New to GMRS and hungry for information
It is a lot of fun!
Are you using a repeater or simplex?
Simplex to a simplex repeater I have set up on a car. All it does it record the message and broadcast the exact same thing back out on the same channel.
@@FirstUnitedTactical wow over 6 miles! I would to get that in my area.
@@yoseifmichael9058 wind plays a major role also, and it was very windy that day. It's very possible to get more on a normal day with easy winds.
Is that radio the one you recommend for beginners over the Baofeng? Pretty cool test
A TIDradio H8 Gmrs is a solid radio for beginners. It displays both the channel name and frequency, which helps you "memorize" the channels. Plus UT has Bluetooth programming, which is very fast and works well. I like it. The new TIDradio H3 Gmrs is backorder, and it has even more features, like listening to airports and pilots talking (AM Air band). Both are good for beginners. The next step up would probably be the Wouxun KG-935g at $149 and the KG-935g Plus at $169-$179 or so. The H8 and H3 are simplified and I've learned a lot with them.
I am new to this GMRS radio. Is this a ham radio? Is there a lic requirement? Sorry this video popped this evening and looked interesting. Impressive little radio and antennas.
GMRS only, and it's $35 for a 10 year license, good for you and your family. Watch some videos on UA-cam about how to get it. It's a little confusing with the FCC page, but it only took 24 hours to get my call sign back and I was ready to go!!
I replied to the wrong part. Gmrs only. Watch UA-cam videos to see the process, but it's only $35 and good for 10 years. No test, just pay and 24 hours later you are good to go! There are hundreds of license videos on here.
Did you even actually test the BaoFeng 15.5 inch antenna? You said you had it at the beginning of the video but I never saw you pull it out in the field.....
Yes, it was the Greaval. It's a knockoff of the actual Baofeng UV5R. I will be doing another test next weekend with a Smiley, Signal Stick and the Nagoya 701G gmrs antennas. I will do the Baofeng at that time. They are the same antenna though, just different name. I guess it would be nice tonsee the difference in them, if there is one. Mobile antenna video coming really soon also.
Did you see the new Part 2 video where the Baofeng was used more? It did the job for sure....
Excellent video. I use a radio with a signal strength meter.You can move a foot and make the difference between being heard or not being heard.
Others have definitely mentioned that and it's less than $50 for a decent meter.
There are plenty more and better antenna videos and tests. I'm currently working on one now that showcases the favorite widget radios and I will be using 6 of the most popular aftermarket antennas. The weather here has been horrible but I hope to get some field time this weekend.
So I didn't quite hear the assessment. And summary of the winner, which which antenna is the best?
It wasn't a which is best or worst video. I was just showing the different ones in my area. Maybe you didn't heat the part where I said the Smiley 5/8 slim duck is my favorite short antenna, and the Nagoya 771g is my favorite long antena? Everyone's situation, terrain, weather, HT and Rx HT will give different results.
Oh- there are 2 newer videos. Watch part two, and then the 3rd one with the Abbree 771g. Those are much better videos!
Thank for the vid, very informative. I have a couple Diamond SRJ77CA antennas that I have had good luck with on GMRS. A little more expensive but seem to work well.
I forgot all about Diamond! I just uploaded the part 2 for this video, but I honestly need a part 3! (check out the new vid with Smiley, Nagoya and Signal Stick!)
The SRJ77CA is what I use on my Kenwood NX-5300 for ham and GMRS. Blows any of the others I have for it.
Sure would like to know more about the Surcom SR 112 and how to set it up with a Baofeng UV 5G radio or a GMRS radio
I will do one. It's extemely simple, but the main challenge is getting the modulation correct before you drive off into the distance! Just to see a quick video, type it in UA-cam, and there is about a 3 min video where you see a radio and the sure com on a brown table. That guy explains it in less than a minute! Otherwise, I will get one uploaded this week! (I just uploaded Part 2 of this antenna testing video with new antennas. Check it out also!)
This is the video I learned on:
ua-cam.com/video/XENeQ_2nkGo/v-deo.htmlsi=DRfay5aup89XNm7w
What antenna was the other walkie using?
TIDradio H8 with a Nagoya 771G, approximately same hieght as me, 5' off ground. In reality I can hit my local repeater 19 miles away (Repeater channel 23) with all of the antennas, except the 701g. That antenna is on a commercial tower though....
So glad you did this video to answer the range questions.
I want to do the same experiments with my radios but don’t understand the need for the two radios in your testing?
I’m under the impression that the Surecom records your transmission and then sends it right back out to same radio.
Is the second radio needed at the location of the Surecom?
Yes. The second radio (at home or wherever you set it up at) uses the standard programming cable to plug into the repeater. The second radio is the receiver and transmitter for the repeater. The repeater does not have the ability to receive and transmit with being connected to an actual radio. The "repeater radio" had a 771G on it, just to make sure it was able to receive and transmit at its best potential. But, I have new and possibly better antennas I will be doing shortly.
The surecom would do nothing without a radio connected to it.
Yes. In fact I just uploaded a video that explains the entire process. Take a look at the latest video I believe, or 2nd to latest.
I would do the same test... but also add in a "Tiger Tail" or "Rat Tail" to each antenna. Its just a Counterpoise ground for an HT radio. You just need one, depending on how the bottom of the connector is fashioned. They have the ability to extend you clarity ... a lot more.
You all ready know each of these ant capabilities out around 7 miles... go back out to the same spot around the same time of day... and redue the test with a counterpoise tail... off... and then on.
And try and keep the antenna pointed upright... that does make a difference.
As for other antennas I might add.... A diamond brrand... they are just a little bit more at around $24 but are very good at longer distances.
Had a question as well, what type of antenna are using at home on the "repeater", and how high is it, type/length of coax..? Thanks.
You are right, but I was wanting to keep it as simple as possible. I found a site that tells the length based on freq, which appears GMRS needs to be 6". Is that what you have found? I will do a. tail on the next video. I am going to run through some trees on the next one, that way it's a little more realistic. I wasn't using my base at home as the repeater. That is a 35' tall Tram, and wouldn't be accurate for normal simplex communication. I used a TIDradio H8 with a Nagoya 771G as the "base". Thanks so much for all that info! I will definitely use the advice on the next vid! I will also order a Diamond this week! Check out the Part 2 I just uploaded!
Hey bud, I have one more question about the tails. On yours, (which radio are you using), and did you attach it to the belt clip screw or did you put it at the base of the antenna and then screw the antenna back on top of it to secure it in place?
@@FirstUnitedTactical I would go to the base of the antenna.
Al N9EUQ
@alanduncan3710 I've never compared from the screw to the antenna base, and was curious. May as well make a video showing the difference at both attachment locations!
I'm impressed with the stock antenna that come with the Tidradio.
Take a look at the "Abbree" orange antenna video. It does better in those situations compared to this video. It does well, especially the 15", but they are tuned for 2/70, which is a little out of 462/467 range. The long one went 8 miles I think, and the short went under 8, if I remember correctly. That other video is much more accurate.
@@FirstUnitedTactical Thanks I'll go check out it out right now.
Thanks man , that was an interesting watch
It was fun. Check out Part 2, and I'm actually uploading a 3rd part tonight. Part 2 and 3 are much better, but this last one is perfect weather and talking just over 10 miles. Hopefully the upload will go through by morning... thanks for watching!
Thanks for all the work and time you did on this Real World Test. Really do appreciate this.
I would like to see the nagoya na-701g tested. I have been in the process of converting all my gmrs hand held radios to the 701g. My swr meter shows 1 to 1.1 on all of them. I'm curious as to how well it works compared to the 771g. I would like to see a side by side comparison.
There is a Part 2 of this testing, and it's on there. I wasn't too impressed. About the 5 mile mark it started cutting out.
I should have noticed that! I was listening while I was doing laundry and didn't even pay attention to the video description. Thanks!!
@@thomaspolley4977 I will be doing another "real world" test soon. This one was just to see how far they would go on basically flat land. I know they go farther because I can hit a repeater 19 miles away and be clear. But, that repeater antenna is on a commercial tower, so the height definitely helps. These little tests I'm doing here have the radios at about 5' high, like a normal person would hold.
I appreciate your testing.
I've been putting together a little communication system for my family. I installed a retevis rt97s Repeater and put their fiberglass antenna on a 10 foot stick of conduit on my roof. My kids were complaining about the length of the stock antenna on their radios, and they had high SWR on GMRS, so i replaced them with the 701g.
Repeater performance has been underwhelming. I'm doing good if I can get into the repeater 2 miles away on an HT. It's semi rural kansas, about as flat as you can get. After watching your review, I'm going to pick up a few 771Gs just to have.
@thomaspolley4977 that's odd you can't hit that repeater. I can go through minor woods and some city to hit our repeater 20 miles away, but it's also on a commercial tower. You should easily reach 5 miles with stock antenna on a decent HT. The 771g is awesome. The Smiley 5/8 is next in line. Did you see the 2nd part?
My signal stick sucks on GMRS. My SWR's were very high on 462. My Nagoya 771G's are way better. I also have a Tid H8, multiple Baofengs and Quansheng UV-K5.
Did you get the short 440 Signal Stick? How are you testing your SWRs on a HT? You won't ever get a true signal, but I've found that touching the 259 base will allow your body to act as a ground, therefore give you a more positive reading. I've found that if the antenna is just connected, the readings will be through the roof. Maybe you have the Surecom with the ground plate attachment?
McQueeney
@FirstUnitedTactical I have the dual band signal stick. Testing on my surecom 33 plus with my HT's. Maybe I should of ordered the 440. I pretty new to GMRS.
@RedeemedPrepper the dual band is the issue I believe. USPS says mine will arrive tomorrow and I will reach back out to ya with results. To answer your other question, I have a Wouxun Q10 (extremely solid working radio), 2 TD H8's, 4 Feng uv5r's (wrapped in aluminum foil and stuck in a metal ammo can), and a TD H3. I'm not a fan of the H3. I can hit a repeater 9 miles from me with everything else, except the H3. It shows 4.5W on the meter, and 1.29 with a 771G, but for some reason it won't make it.
@FirstUnitedTactical OK thanks. I figured it probably was the dual band. I need to make a farraday box for my Fengs too. I appreciate your response and I'm glad to see your into the same things I'm into. Can't wait to see your results. I guess now I need to go to Buytwowayradios here in SC and get a Wouxun lol
So nice show...
What Chanel u were on the whole time as u were testing
Gmrs 7
@@FirstUnitedTactical I loved your videos. I assume your radio was transmitting at full power on channel 7. I'm curious how much would change if you had a mobile transmitting at high power with a mobile mount antenna. I'm able to reach a local repeater from inside my house using a Nagoya 771G and Baofeng UV-5G. I'm not sure of the distance to the repeater, I estimate it is about 4.65 miles. I'm able to talk to my son in another county about 50 miles away through the repeater when he is using his base station. Have you seen any of the Ed Fong antennas? I am curious how well they work.
@bryansturtevant780 Ed fong is an awesome antenna. My base is a Tram 1486 (there's a video also) and I can easily talk with it. I also have a decent mobile setup, and will be doing a test with the simplex repeater set up at my base and showing mobile antennas soon. It will be more wooded and suburban settings..
I have bought so many of the Nagoya 771G and out of all of them I have been able to keep only 1 because the ones I have been getting are usually out of tune and the SWR is stupid high. May want to check the SWR on those if you get them.
You are right! I have 4 or 5, and one of them is way out of 462 range. It's high 3's on the Surecom SWR. I suggest everyone test everything when they get it because in a real bad situation, you gotta know it works!
You know what, thanks to your suggestion that's the next video I do. I will show good and bad, to show people that manufacturing isn't always perfect! Thank you, and I'm sure all the watchers will be thanking you as well!
Will you also be doing amateur radio or only GMRS? Also, what antenna were you using for the radio connected to the simplex repeater?
Tidradio H8 with a Nagoya 771g, at 6' off the ground. It was also centered on the roof of a van so it had excellent ground plane, whereas I did not.
@@FirstUnitedTacticalok, thanks. I like the Nagoya antennas for my amateur radio HTs. I alternate a lot between the Nagoya and the Signal Stick antenna from Signal Stuff.
I always carry a Signal Stick as a backup antenna when I am out because I can coil them up and store them in the radio pouch behind the radio in case I need to switch antennas after a breakage in the field.
@@WH6FQE Chexk out the Abbree 771 GMRS for 462/467. Someone suggested it, and it arrived, and it read a 1.1 swr! That's better than the 771g.... I haven't really tested it, but I did get a lot stronger "kerchunk" back when I hit the repeater 20 miles away (compared to the Nagoya 771g). My 440 Signal Stick won't hit that repeater at all. That Abbree 771 GMRS is the one on Amazon for $8 or $9, and it seems to be well worth that! I don't have a 2/70 Signal Stick because the owner of Signal Stuff told me it wouldn't perform well with GMRS.
@@FirstUnitedTacticalthe ABREE antenna you are referring to, is that a standard black whip antenna, or their black foldable flat antenna? I am seeing both versions in different listings on Amazon, for about the same price range.
@@WH6FQE the orange whip. I'm not too much of a fan with the tactical folding. That $8 771 gmrs seems to work great, with basic screwing around.
Would love for you to try out Smiley antennas 👍
Check out Part 2! The 5/8 Slim Duck kicked butt!