The Best Prepper Radio for 2022 - Baofeng vs Yaesu?
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- Опубліковано 21 січ 2022
- In this video, I'll share with you why I believe the Yaesu FT-60R is still the best radio for preppers in 2022 given my experience, the features and the price. We'll talk about the pros/cons, the accessories and even the MARS modification.
MARS Videos:
1. • Yaesu FT-60R Mars/Cap ...
2. • Yaesu FT-60r (FT60) Ma...
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#TheTechPrepper #Yaesu #FT-60R #Baofeng #EmComm #Comms #SHTF #Prepper
My father passed away about 5 years ago. He was into ham for years, probably close to 40 the only radio he had left from his collection was a FT60r, I started messing with it a few weeks ago. The more I play with it the more I like it. Taking my test for tech and general in 2 weeks. I have ordered some things for the 60 and plan to use it as primary.
My condolences about your father. The FT-60 has been a great work horse since its introduction in 2005/2006. It well serve you well. Good luck with your license.
Did you pass. What did you use to study?
Good for you
It is a year later now.
Did you pass your test?
Get your license?
Enjoying life?
@@eugenecbell I did pass pretty easily too. Got general license.
@@robertwoerner20 that is good news.
See you on the air
I am a Prepper first. Adding to my knowledge bank is Amateur Radio, currently studying for my test. Your video is unbelievably valuable to me. I immediately subscribed. Thank you
Welcome to the channel and cheers to another prepper. I've documented my entire comms experience here on UA-cam starting with my first contact. Good luck with your new commo journey.
Thank you for making these videos, every time i buy a new radio i check for any modifications/accessories on UA-cam and always find your videos as a great guide. Keep up the good work.
You're welcome. Glad to hear it was helpful. UA-cam is great for researching these questions.
Thanks for your videos. They are exceedingly helpful for someone just starting off down this path. Like you, I too like options in my comms. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming.
You are very welcome. Glad to see more people getting into radio. Good luck and enjoy the ride.
Wow! Believe it or not, our comms approach mirror each other with the exception of I use UV-5Rs. Multiple power charging options, Identical programming across my radios, APRS capabilities, GMRS, MURS, etc capabilities. I am a great believer in redundancy as my L.E. career taught me that ALL systems have a failure point when most needed. I am the same way with cook systems, flashlights, weapons, etc. Excellent video, keep them coming and I hope you recover completely and quickly.
I'm not surprised we're taking the same approach. Regardless of the HT, the trick is standardization, consistently and knowing how to use it.
@@TheTechPrepper Strongly agreed!
I appreciate your candor about why you modify and program your radios the way you do. Thank you for that.
You're welcome. I'm actually expanding the list to include most of the frequencies found in the NIFOG manual. Google it if you have time and skim it. It's better to have it and not needed it, than to need it and not have it. I'm a firm believer in applying the MARS modification to all radios.
Another great video! I love my FT60. I have had mine since 2013 when I got licensed. Still use it today. OH! I use it for satellite work too using the odd split.
Thank you! The FT-60R is tough to beat. People that have them seem to have a healthy bias towards them. I appreciate the data point. It looks like you have almost 10 years of service and counting.
A lot of great info that I was looking for from one resource; thanks. Subscribed.
Welcome to the channel! I forgot one thing, this radio has two physical knobs for volume and squelch. Other radios (i.e. Baofeng UV-5R) tend to hide squelch as a menu option.
Excellent video! Thank you Gaston. Keep up the great work. 🐗🏆
Thank you! Will do. I appreciate the support. Take care.
Great video! You turned me on to the FT-60R's....and I now have two of them. Love the Glock 19 / FT60R comparison!!!! Glad you're feeling better!
Thanks, David! The LDS Church ordered a pallet of them from the HRO Phoenix store and they programmed them identically. That should tell you something. The firearm analogies help.
@@TheTechPrepper hmm maybe I need to reach out to my stake in Utah 😂
@@kurtismeinhardt68 Absolutely. I'm sure they're on top of it.
Nice work Gaston, I love it when "Chinga'deras" is used in the proper context. I spent many years of my engineering lifr teaching when and how to use it. Mad props. 😜
Thanks for watching the 5 second bonus material. That's why it's there. Just checking to see who the long tail viewers are. I did not know how to spell it until you wrote it down. Take care, my friend.
Fantastic job Gaston,
I appreciate your pragmatic approach to emcomms and no nonsense style to your videos. Keep up the great content and if you have Affiliate links to some of your gear post it. I'm sure that there are many of us who would use them to support the channel. ☕😎👍
Thanks, Jose. I just call it like I see it. In fairness, I use the commercial ham radio gear a bit out of spec, so I'm not sure how many hams identify with the content. I appreciate the support. I've been including more affiliate links in the description, but they're typically kept to a minimum as I only post links of products that I actually use. Thanks for stopping by.
Loving your videos. Getting ready to buy one of these so thanks for the great overview. Not sure if you're aware, but we have quite a growing GMRS community in AZ. In fact, I find there's more activity on GMRS repeaters than ham repeaters. In New River, you're in a really good spot to hit the 2 Crown King repeaters. One is standalone: 462.575 a great group of guys on there regularly and this repeater is what got me into radio. The other is 462.600 which is linked to the Southwest network. But, you may already know this.
Glad you're enjoying the content. I like your Jeep logo. Obtaining my GMRS license has been on my to-do list for a couple of years and something I need to prioritize this year. I have been looking at a few GMRS rigs for the Jeep, so it's good to know that there's an active community. I did not know about the those two repeaters, but I have good luck on 2m simplex when I'm at Crown King. Take it easy.
@@TheTechPrepper Definitely go for it, I'm on that system all the time.
Love the videos! Keep them coming!
Thank you! More on the way!
My first radio is an Ft-60 and it still accompanies me along with a baofeng UV6R that I use to "play". My battery pack for the Yaesu is 2x18650. It's a little wider but hardly noticeable. Thanks for the video. I used google translate. Greetings from Argentina.
Again a very informative video, thanks. Seems the FT60 is your Swiss army knife for portable use 😉 The accessories you use are awesome and a good upgrade for any portable set-up. I owned the FT60E but sold it as the VX6E was my Swiss army knife for portable radio. Now I use the FT-4X and regret having sold the VX6E. Besides it's size and weight compared to the FT-4X and other Chinese handhelds, to me it's the perfect portable radio. Not only it's waterproof but it also has a good broadband receiver which I miss at the FT-4X
The FT-60R/E is a classic for a reason. The VX-6R/E is a solid radio. Do you find the manual programming to be more difficult on the VX-6? Several others mentioned the FT-4. I think I need to get one now. Great price!
@@TheTechPrepper I think it is more difficult than with the VX6. Reminds me more of programming a Baofeng Uv-5r. Programming the VX6E was more intuitive. Speaking of the UV-5R, it's similar to the FT-4X. Of course the chassis of the FT-4X is of a higher quality. For that price you can't go wrong.
Love Yaesu products. Got 2 FT3D, a VX8DR and a FT891. Love my radios. They are bulletproof.
You've got good taste and nice line up of radios. 73
Thanks for posting! I like the way you describe the criteria you used to select your goto radios and accessories.
I have 2 Yaesu FT3D radios with MARS mods and 8 Baofengs (UV-5R and BF-F8HP models) that can receive / transmit on HAM, FRS, MURS, and GMRS frequencies. I know these radios are only certified for HAM frequencies but the option to be able to receive and transmit on the other VHF/UHF frequencies is important to me for emergency situations.
You have to do a mod on the Yaesu radios to be able to transmit on non HAM VHF/UHF frequencies. The older Baofengs supported this out of the box. My understanding is that newer manufactured Baofengs have been neutered to only support transmitting on HAM VHF/UHF frequencies.
I use the Yaesu and Baofengs often and am familiar with both. I bought the Baofengs for my car, backpacks, bug out bags, and to share with friends and family in emergencies. It was important for me to have backup radios and radios I can share. Yes, the FT3D is a much better radio than the Baofengs but I can’t afford to own that many FT3D radios!
I’ve noticed some Baofeng accessories (speaker mics and batteries) are a lot less expensive than their Yaesu equivalents. From what I’ve seen these accessories perform just as well as the Yaesu accessories for a fraction of the cost.
You can buy inexpensive extended battery packs for Baofeng radios that can be charged via DC USB cables. They work great. I charge them via the USB ports in my car and solar generator. This is very convenient and helpful for emergency situations. I tried posting the links for these products in a previous response to your video but notice my post was removed.
Ok, thanks for clarifying the comment removal at the end. I saw your comment yesterday via the email notification, but could not find it in the dashboard to reply.
You have the right mindset. Like you, I have about half dozen Baofengs that I leave in places where I don't care as much if they heat up if left unattended. I have two Baofengs in every vehicle. They seem to survive the 140F temps in the vehicles over the summer.
The FT3DR is a nice radio, but pricey. I'm actually considering a quick evaluation of the FT-65 or FT-4 as they have reasonable price points. If I recall correctly one or both of the models can be MARS moded from the keypad.
Thanks for the comment and the channel support.
You are now my como prepping "go to" channel. Thank you.
Awesome! Thank you!
I have two Yaesus (FT-60 and VX-6) and many Baofengs. Baofengs are great for modding/experimentation, non-vital situations where you don't want to risk losing an expensive radio, and getting people on the air without breaking the bank, but for serious, even potentially life-and-death comms, Yaesu would be my choice every time. Expanding on your analogy: if the FT-60 is the Glock 19 of radios, then the UV-5R is the Hi-Point C9. G19 for serious use, C9 as a "truck" gun. 👍
I agree with everything. Great analogies.
And everything else in between is a Taurus!😄
That makes sense. Keep practicing your comms methods and using both radios to maintain compatibility.
This is the most helpful comment and comparison. Thank you.
I can recommend the yaesu FT2D for an APRS radio. It got discontinued recently because of the fancy color-screened FT3 and FT5. I’ve had mine 3 or 4 years now. It’s great! It isn’t as good of a radio as ft60, but it is great to have! I have a pelican case I carry in the truck and on motorcycle road trips. I use a yaesu vx6r (submersible, rugged) daily and in that case along with my FT2D. If I need/want to send texts or emails or use APRS, I can pull out the FT2D. Normally it stays in the case and I use the vx6. Since they’re not a color screen and are discontinued, I’m sure you can find a deal on one. Batteries are expensive. I’ve used mine with 1 battery for 3-4 years and have just now ordered extras.
You have yourself some great radios. Who needs a color screen? The FT2D was on my list awhile back as was the VX-7R, but I couldn't find either. I have the VX-6R and I'm starting to use that radio more for the trail. Like you said, batteries are expensive for it. It's a bit more difficult to program than the FT-60R, but I'm getting used to it.
The new Baofeng's can transmit on their entire receive range as well, and it's SUPER easy to enable. No soldering or opening the radio. You literally just hold down 3 buttons while powering it on and it permanently unlocks full transmit.
Excellent. The older ones that I have are fully unlocked, so it's good to hear that they can be opened up with a simple key sequence.
Which model #?
The mic connection issues you mention are why I've always preferred radios that use the Kenwood-style connectors. So that includes Kenwood obviously but also Baofeng, Wouxun, and others.
You nailed it. The Kenwood-style connectors are the way to go. The MURS radios I'm looking into are by Wouxun. Do you have a favorite 2m/440 Wouxun?
Just found yer channel Ol’ Son liked n subbed great content brother!
Welcome to the channel! More practical comms content coming your way. We're doing a field op in the Jeep next. Take it easy.
Excellent video! I have almost every recent model Yaesu HT except the FT60 (VX5, 6, 7, 8, FT25 and FT3D). They all have their pros and cons but for the most part are solid radios. I've wondered how the FT60 would stack up against against those.
I plan to watch this again! Thanks and 73.
Here's my take. If you are comfortable with anyone of those radios in your environment and trust it to work when you need it, it's a keeper. That's how I feel about my FT-60R. It's not for everyone, but I trust mine out here based on how I need it to work. You seem to have the family of the VX line. The model I really wanted was the one with APRS, but it's impossible to find used at a good price.
@@TheTechPrepper I think you may be referring to the VX8R. It has a built in AX.25 TNC. They seem to fetch a high price on the used market. 73!
@@understandthetimes5721 That's the one! I settled for the VX-6R when I could not find one.
Great video. All of my ham radios have the MARS mod. You never know when you may have an emergency and need to transmit outside the fan bands.
Good man. You are right about that. Cheers!
I, personally, love the fact that you programmed in the public safety channels in case of an emergency. I do a lot of events and gatherings way out in the national forests where there is zero cell reception and emergencies are one of the main reasons that I am getting in to ham radio. Before every outdoor event, I'm always dropping by the local ranger station to check on fire conditions and to let them KNOW where we will be located in case shit happens. I get a lot of flack for that from some people. "They'll come bust our gathering!" My response is always that I want them to know where I am at so they'll know that if someone comes by their station and says that "Zen has an emergency," they'll know to come running to where we are at. Having a ham radio that can put me directly in touch with ranger dispatch would be an incredible life saving tool. It helps to have a good rep with the ranger service too. Thanks for that programming tip. You rock!
Glad to hear you're checking in at the ranger stations. It's a good practice. I typically only do this in new areas I visit. Typically, I just leave my with wife with an itinerary, expected route (map) and number to SAR (local Sheriff's Department).
@@TheTechPrepper Our group does camping and dancing in the woods. I've got a Generac 6500 portable generator that can power a hefty sound system, lights, and anything else needed for a dance party in the woods. I'm also the guy with the chainsaw so I cut up the downed trees, burn the branches the first night, and then run a fire for the 24 hours that we play music. I always bring everything that the rangers require for fire safety in the woods. We are a well-equipped bunch of people. But, there have been emergencies and I've used my CB when I could, but most times we have to find someone to drive whomever is hurt out of the mountains to a nearby hospital. Having a ham outfit would be an excellent add-on safety feature. I'm not sure how strong of a rig I'd need to connect from 15-30 miles out in the forest, so if you have some thoughts on that, I'd really appreciate any tips you could provide. I'm really enjoying all your vids. Good production and editing. Thanks for all you do.
@@dreadedzen9 Glad you're enjoying the content. I have some ideas about your use case when you're 15-30 miles out. I'm working on video on how to extend the range of your HT. Spoiler: I'll be talking about crossband repeating. I have a few options on this setup.
Great video. Keep it up!
Will do. 73's
Thanks for making this video! Something to be said for a nice rugged ht that's also easy to operate and program in the field. I recently picked up a ft-4xr to have some simplicity in a compact package. I'm interested in any videos you may post on sending text msg through radio. I haven't been able to figure out how to do it.
You're the second person today that needs help on sending SMS texts. I'll make a video this year without getting too technical.
@@TheTechPrepper Sounds great, I volunteer as #3 😁
I had set aside the vx5r thriband radio 6m, 2m, and 70cm. I have 2 batteries and the calm shell battery pack for them.
Great vid man. Your vids are getting me into emcomm and trying new things. Still don’t understand packet and aprs tho.
Thanks. Enjoy the ride learning. It's a great skill. I thought it would be a quick detour from my other preps. It's taken over my life. I'll try to make an updated intro video on APRS and approach it from the practical perspective. Let's use radio to send text messages...no cell or internet required. Take care.
i payed the eqv.of 70$ here on the swedish Ebay, will get it next week, thnx for this, 73, Levi (i will also order the holder for Alka batteries)
Great channel and awesome videos!
I got a yaesu ht because of your recommendation and I love it. Mine can be charged from the dc input though…
Welcome to the channel! Yaesu makes great radios. Which HT did you go with?
@@TheTechPrepper hi, I went with the FT5D. Nice little radio…
@@mnb5404 Congrats! Enjoy.
Excellent
A suggestion for channel programming: While plain frequency programming of FRS and MURS is fine for monitoring, should the need arise, make sure you've set the deviation to narrow-band (all frs and 3 of the MURS). It will make communication more reliable. GMRS is wide band and your public safety frequency is probably wide band if it's older, but narrow if it's the newer stuff.
Very much enjoyed this. Thank you.
My pleasure. I was able to cut all the coughing out, but there were a few moments of wheezing. Glad you still could enjoy it!
@@TheTechPrepper You did a great job man, didn't disrupt the flow of the video.
Hey, what editing software do you use?
@@TheNoCodeTech iMovie. Free and simple if you're on a Mac.
Great content…thanks
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good antenna and charging/power tips. Thanks.
Not problem. Thanks for the comment. Take care.
FT-60 Rules !
Very nice presentation!
Glad you liked it!
The baofeng radio squelch sucks, tiny tiny little signals break the squelch so it makes it impossible while scanning unless you dont mind skipping channels every 10 seconds or deleting channels. Nobody talked about that on youtube. Also when you upgrade the antenna for the UV-5r it will overload the front end so it makes it unusable if you are near a city, i got a nagoya antenna for each UV-5r and it made them go dead. I bought 5 of them idont mind if they are not the best, they will be given away to family or neighbors if needed.
I wanted a good one for myself. Just ordered a yaesu FT-60. Also the memory has banks that you can program for different types of frequencies or for different areas I just learned. I'm sure it will be better than the baofeng. I'm excited to get it.
Great video !
I tried not to make this video an "I hate the Baofeng" video, instead my intent was to let people draw their own conclusions like you did. I failed to mention that the FT-60R has a physical squelch knob that is independent from the volume. It's one of my favorite features. I hope you enjoy it. If you hate it, let me know.
I did a similar mod to an icom ht to remove a diode to open up the 440 band to accept sat freqs.
These mods are worth it, but nerve racking. Glad to hear your radio survived.
You and I have very much the same philosophy about programming radios. Basically, if I have the room for it, I'm going to stuff it in the radio. At a minimum, they're all set up with local Amateur frequencies, GMRS/FRS, MURS, Marine band, NOAA weather, etc. DMR radios are even better, as I can segregate everything into logical (to me at least) zones. That HD1 has over 600 channels saved, and I have an Anytone with over 1,000. I'm a big boy and I know where I can and can't transmit. Besides, depending upon which group or agency we're working with at the time, if they want me on their system, they'll hand me a MARCS radio, or whatever they're using.
Great Video. The Good thing about Baofengs is the Price. Taking it in the Field, if you loose it or Destroy it your only out 30 bucks. Plus being able to Transmit outside the Ham Bands could come in useful in a SHTF event.
The problem is that I'm in the field 5-6 days per week. I've broken several and have been out of communications while solo. The Baofengs have a place and will work well for most people, but personally, I've learned my lesson after 3 separate Baofeng's died.
@@TheTechPrepper How did you manage to kill a baofeng, I play Airsoft twice a week in an outdoor setting, in the rain/snow /heat and had yet to kill mine in 2 years. I even fell down a 12 ft embankment and landed on the radio (Ouch yes it hurt.}?
@@paulrotledge9276 I run about 1,500-1,800 miles in the desert every year and sweat excessively. They are always killed by sweat and salt making its way into the radio. Usually the speaker audio dies first. I had another on take a tumble. It cracked the screen and split open the housing. To be fair, I finally killed an FT-60R after about two years into its service . For this reason, I finally transitioned to an IP67 rated HT--Yaesu VX-6R .
@@TheTechPrepper I was not criticizing, just curious how you killed them. the cracked screen I actually thought that one out, I keep my screen facing my body. Never thought about sweat or salt. Thanks .
@@paulrotledge9276 Not a problem. It was a good question. Turning around the radio is a nice pro tip. I really love the FT-60, so it was heartbreaking when I finally killed one with the salt and sweat.
73s and thanks for the video I have two FT60 and also prep good radio
That's a great rig. If you can find a FT-270, pick one up. It's 2m only and uses the same batteries as the FT-60, but it's built like a tank and submersible.
I've been licensed since 2016. I've thought about saving my pennies for this radio, but there is one problem. Although it is 2 meter and 70cm. You can only listen or monitor one frequency at a time. What I use is the TYT UV8000D. Which is 2m/70cm, but also dual watch. Where I live there is an active 2 meter repeater and a 440 repeater, so with the TYT can can monitor both. Plus the TYT is about half the price, so if I damage it or loose it, or it gets stolen. I'm not out 150 dollars. Also, I use Signal Stick antenna's. Which are made in Utah. They can also be coiled up like the Comet.
Camera is closer: check, clip on microphone? : check
White table cloth gone: check. Looks way better.
Much better now. Good video. Thanks man.👍
Thanks for the tips. I prefer field videos, but it was nice to make a few small tweaks indoors. I'll buy a lapel mic as soon as I can for the Rode GoWireless. That's a Polish military wool blanket from the Jeep...more fitting. Cheers!
@@TheTechPrepper looks cool. I am half Polish half German so I know what you are talking about. Tell me, are you in AZ? We are in Tucson. I really like your videos in the field.
@@henrykn4257 Just north of you in New River. About 2 hours.
Cool, I thought it looked familiar. Stay safe out there.
4:40 i have had the Same problem with the Speakermike on my FT3d. For this pricy Radio and Mike from a premium Brand, to me it's a no go. My to go Radio is now a FT-65 with a chepo Handymike and it woks fine for me.
This is serious design flaw in my opinion. Almost everyone who has had an FT-60 and used 3.5mm jack as sent a dead carrier.
Alinco 1226 DJ-MD-5-GPS DMR VHF/UHF what do you think about the alinco that already pack several features like SMS GPS etc? Thanks for your video
Great overview of some features I wasn't aware of. I don't know if it will work with the speaker/mic cable, but I had a similar problem with a Heil headset, that worked fine on the FT-60, but not the FT-3D. Heil told me to carefully trim back the plug plastic, so it would insert fully into the jack. No issues after that. Might be worth a try. WN6NW
Excellent tip and great timing. I ordered the Heil headset last week. 73 de KT1RUN
I have had similar issues using the Heil headset with my FT-70D although it seems OK with my FT-60...will try the modification and see whether it improves things. 73, G0CIQ
Since you asked about the Baofengs, UV-5R series has a AA battery pack, and there are 3800 mAh Lio-ion pakcs that can be charged using 12v or 5v USB cables. The UV-82s have a AAA battery adaptor and the same kind of Lithium Ion packs, and an adapter that allows you run the radio right off the car battery. The GT-3WPs (so called water proof) have no field type battery setups, all the batteres have to be charged in the cradle (which can be run from AC or 12v DC). Your FT-6R is a much better setup.
Lol I like that you said ghetto... talk dat slang KT and keep up the awesome work bra
Thanks! This is not your average ham radio/comms channel . I accidentally said "banana hammock" on the last video. ;-)
Charging: I have a solar power bank, (about 5" x 3" x 1") that is connected to the charge input of a standard power bank. The solar power bank continually keeps the standard power bank charging in daylight, so regardless of the situation you have a stand alone supply.
Another great video my friend.
Did you mark the modded radio in some way as to not get it confused in a rush or high stress situation?
Excellent point. Yes, I don't run the belt clip on my EDC (modified) unit. I'll make the same modification to my two other FT-60's.
I am new to these radios, do you still run this setup 4/29/2024? Can you provide a complete list for this kit? You sure seem to have it figured out and well tested. I appreciate your wealth of knowledge on this subject.
What is the black bag you are using in this video? Awesome video!!! Thank you
It's from a company called PackTenna.
Great video, thanks! Is your VX-6R working properly? I could not find a new one working without issues. 1. Strong noise makes for example listening AM broadcast on earbuds on low volumes not enjoyable. 2. Burst of noise every now and then when using the keypad. Also when turning on the radio. 3. Distorted sound on FM broadcast. 4. The internal temperature indoor shows as single digit. 5. On FM broadcast I have seen these radios with 9+ noise almost across the entire FM broadcast band and with FM broadcast stations strangely in bands under 87 and over 108. Basically the receiver was overloading, not usable in and around the town. Some stations completely disappeared in the 9+ noise in the 87-108 band. I wonder if your radio is an exception.
I will need to investigate the AM/FM broadcast issues you're seeing. The ability to listen to broadcast stations was another reason why I picked up the VX-6R last year. I recall having issues listening to both AM/FM broadcasts in the house, but I assumed it was the antenna. It works well enough outside. I'll try to connect a long wire antenna and see how it goes. My temperature reading works fine. I did notice that the battery pack and enclosure heat up very quickly. A 5 minute QSO will heat it up. It sounds like your issues may be a bad unit? Did you find reports of others having similar issues? Do you find manually programming repeaters to be a pain?
I have an FT60r. My only gripe with it are the batteries. Wish they would have an upgrade Li-Ion version. I burned out the transmit stage on mine and ordered a new board on EBay. I think I got an Asian version, because I can transmit on other bands (???).
Thanks for the Video. How can you tell the age of a FT60? Is the DC port missing on newer builds or replaced with something else? Cheers!
You're welcome! The manufacturing date is encoded in the serial number. Here's a link to an article with the details: ve3ips.wordpress.com/2015/10/08/yaesu-serial-number-and-date-of-manufacturing-decoder/
The DC port is there in the newer models, but it only powers the radio. It will not charge the battery.
If one wants to have some form of secure communications, Yaesu C4FM capable radios like the FT70, FT3/5D, FTM 100, 200, 300, 400, 2980, 3200, 7250 and the 991A. One can enable the TX&RX Tones on C4FM and can have probably the most secure communications available to amateur operators.
Having any digital voice radio around is a good thing. I've got D-STAR and C4FM radios I use on reflectors for VoIP modes. I've talked on simplex with C4FM a couple times without the TX&RX tones. Great audio and don't have to worry a whole lot about people coming in if you don't want them in on your QSO.
Another great topic would be digital voice over HF.
Don't the tones just block you from hearing others on the same freq? So you can't hear them but they can listen to you all day and you none the wiser?
On FM, not digital.
@@pale_2111 Cool thanks!
Check out Digital Radio Dairies channel. M0FXB has a video about the tones on C4FM and has a demonstration on the video as well. It's about a year old, so you might have to dig through his videos.
I always assume there is no privacy when using amateur radio equipment. Some modes make it more difficult for causal users to overhear a conversation. If stuff hits the fun, I assume 2m/440 who'll be over run with the unlicensed Baofeng army. I actually have some special software I've written that provides AES-256 encryption over FM analog. Sadly, I can never release it or share it because it works over the amateur radio bands. I've been looking into Motorola Land Mobile Radios and I'm considering getting a business license.
Great videos! I just subscribed.
The black edc pouch looks perfect as you are using it. Could you tell me the make/model?
Welcome to the channel. This is the Haley Strategic D3CRM. It has been used daily for the last 3 years and is still holding up. It's a buy once, cry once situation.
@@TheTechPrepper Thank you for such a fast reply! I was actually asking about the small black pouch @ 7:45 into the video. Thanks again!
Defective battery retention clip on mine. I used a finger to flip the tab and it broke off. They have replacement parts for a cost. Annoying.... I like the Japanese FT-65 though!
Re: public safety programed in. I see nothing wrong with that, I have public safety, gmrs, frs, murs, marine etc. All programmed in. If you need it, you need it. If you don't, it's there, incase you do 🤣 great video Gaston. 73!
My brother from another mother. 😂
@@TheTechPrepper 🤣 I think we share a lot of the same reasoning for being interested in comms. That's why I like your channel so much. Keep your powder dry! 73!
Nice video on this ht. I’m looking to by a good ht something solid and reliable. I’m undecided on wether to get this or the icom v86. Any thoughts on the v86 model. It’s just 2m but mostly in my area is 2m .
Go with your gut and trust your research. There's no perfect radio for everyone. You know your needs and environment best. All I know is that my FT-60R has lived a hard life with sweat, dirt and extreme heat and it's still kicking after two years. I can't speak for the IC-V86 as I've never really come across it until this comment, but I'm a Yaesu guy. If you can head to your local HRO or Gigaparts and see if you can play with them. Good luck!
@@TheTechPrepper thanks
I'm happy as a clam with both my modified V-86 and the Export V-86. It can handle a wide variety of batteries including the "AA" pack. The BNC connector gives you so many options for on the radio & external antennas. Plus you have 7 watts of power to put your signal out there. If only Icom would have a dual band version/offer the U-86 world wide. Good luck!
Just an FYI regarding MARS. From what I've found in my reserach at one point they changed their requirements for gear, and now require folks to use a radio that MARS has certified from their list, and most of the amateur gear that's out there isn't on their list (meaning most stuff that you convert won't be allowed to use for that purpose).
I did not now know this. Thanks for raising this. When I spoke with our regional MARS trainer about 6 months back he mentioned that the commercially available amateur radios were fine to use with the MARS modification. That new approved list could be very expensive if they're talking about Harris radios? Are these new rules as of 2022?
This is not true. I’ve been MARS for a number of years with FT-450 D and an IC 7300. AD8DU.
I was looking at the FT-65R which can still be had for $89 (if you want the Yaesu brand and I understand if you do). My primary HT is a FT-3DR which is a technological wonder and does all the things. My mobile is an FTM-400 which is also a technological wonder. But my backup emcom is a Baofeng GT-3TP. It's a dual band radio and nothing more. The radio with 3800MAH battery and a spare 3800MAH battery together cost me $66 dollars. Great value for a true 7W HT. Unlike most Baofengs it comes with a very good Radioddity antenna so no more $ on that. I already had a programming cable and CHIRP is free. Many Baofeng radios now come with TX locked to the HAM bands (as they should) but the process of unlocking them for EMERGENCY situations is as simple as pressing a couple of buttons while you power on the radio. Given that the FT-65R is also made in China I picked the radio that gave me the most bang for the buck.
I'm getting the FT 65R soon cause going by the reviews that we're overwhelmingly positive I figure it's a good radio. Also heard it's made in Japan now and has been for awhile, guess we will see if that's true soon. Recently got the uv 5r and for the most part it's been am impressive piece of tech for the price that's for sure. How's the FT3D? I was thinking of grabing it aswell with hopes of being able to do all the uhf and vhf stuff plus tap into some new stuff. Would I be able to tune into the police with it? I know the police in my town have all switched to digital now. Thought it would be fun to listen to them .
Will the rubber washer on the Diamond BNCJ-SMAP slide down to eliminate the gap between the connector and the body of the radio? And if the ft-60r's SMA connector is a brittle connection point, how does the BNC adapter help? Does the BNC-to-SMA connection provide better stability than connecting an antenna directly to the radio? BTW, thanks for taking the time to make such thorough videos!
Excellent question.
1. Yes, the rubber washer sits firmly on the body of the radio. The FT-60 has a recessed circular opening and fits the BNCJ-SMAP perfectly.
2. I have been running these connectors on all of my FT-60's and I personally believe that you will get more life out of the SMA connector on the FT-60 with BNCJ-SMAP connected to it. If the BNC connector wears out due to lots of antenna swaps just replace the BNCJ-SMAP. The SMA connector should still be fine. The wear on the SMA connectors come from constant swapping of antennas. You eliminate that stress with the BNCJ-SMAP. Again, this is just based on my use over the last 3 years.
You may want to see my VX-6R series as I have recently moved off the FT-60R due to some moisture issues. The FT-60 is fantastic, but it is not waterproof.
@@TheTechPrepper Thanks for that clarification. I'll order the adapter and corresponding Comet antenna for the FT-60R shortly. I need the adapter to connect to a larger outdoor antenna anyway. I've seen your videos on the VX-6R and it is at the top of my radio wish list. But after nearly pulling the trigger, I decided that I didn't quite need that level of waterproofness and general badassery enough to justify the price at around $500 including useful accessories (with only one spare battery!) for a first HT. I probably won't be able to resist for long though.
Great video content. I am a Yaesu guy and the FT-60R was my first radio. I have had VX8's in the past due to the aprs.
But Yaesu's aprs is not available outside the radio to use like Kenwood's TH-70 series of Ht's. Should not have sold the TH-72 I had. I am assuming the answer to your video title is the Yaesu is the winner. Would also suggest any specific product you mention in the video, to include a link to buy the product (or a link to a website) in your show notes. Example is the Diamond antenna adapter and Comet antenna you talk about. Lastly, please send me a note when you want to sell the Kenwood TH-74. 73 Stephen AC8QE
Glad to have another fellow ham that bleeds Yaesu. I'll post the links for all products moving forward. I'm hanging onto the D74 a bit longer so that I can test it with my EmComm Tools project. About a dozen hams have contacted me regarding the D74. I guess I'll have do some kind of drawing to be fair.
I'm curious about your thoughts on the FT-4x. I think the one fly in the ointment with it is battery charging options. For emergency haven't found any Car charger or OTS battery backs to work with it. For an emergency system radio would like those options. There is no DC port on the radio only the contacts on the battery.
Sorry, I can't comment on this radio as I don't own it. I believe a few other people have this radio and have commented here. I recall they made good points. I believe the MARS mode is done from the front panel which is nice.
@@TheTechPrepper that is correct - I think the main weakness is battery and charging options.
Too bad Yaesu does not make a waterproof mic that has a display and can change frequencies/ volume. Then you can keep the radio protected under rain gear (Rain in the desert) and have the mic handy. I'm looking into portable manpacks and would the box you used for aprs work equally well with an Icom 5100a. I'd like to carry the Icom with a Yaesu 891 in a motorcycle or motorcycle sidecar. I'm disabled so hiking is out of the question thus weight is not the primary consideration though the ability to use an HT to use the crossband repeat on the Icom would be handy.
I’m going with GMRS but I’m going to have some Amateur radios just in case I want to communicate with people outside our group.
Not sure if you have yet but a video on the radio edc bag would be great!
Jump to 8:55 in this video: ua-cam.com/video/EewR6HZlQRQ/v-deo.html
@@TheTechPrepper thanks!
As far as I know, for voice MURS is analog FM only. As far as data, (I may be wrong) I do not think encryption is authorized.
I really need to look into this. The details are light, but I recall reading that the encryption allowed. It's unclear if that refers to voice or data. I will go to the source and do more research.
Have you ever noticed that most frequencies are not used and are therefore virtually empty? That's why I always just choose 'a' frequency that I want and not one that is imposed by anyone.
Been looking at theVX6
It's a rugged radio, but I find it difficult to manually program. The wide band receive is nice especially if your into short wave radio.
What chest rig do you use? Ive been trying to find one where I can mount a radio up on the strap to keep it slim but i havent found anything.
The Haley Strategic D3CRM. I run an HSGI TACO rifle mag pouch to hold my HT.
Do you know of any handhelds that can do analog and DMR that are actually useful/practical as a prepper radio? I have a Yaesu FT65r that is great for analog but I've found that a lot of the digital mode radios that "can" do analog are lacking a lot of basic functionality such as just being able to efficiently scan.
Yes. Check out the newest model of the AnyTone 878. It supports encryption, too. I picked up one in December and plan to make a video in a few months on why it's a good radio for preppers.
@@TheTechPrepper thanks man! I'll check it out and look forward to the video.
What bag are you using for your everyday cary kit? I like that size with the clamshell opening.
I've been using the grey-colored Flatpack Plus from Haley Strategic as my EDC pack. It looks like a normal backpack with three compartments. The main and outer compartment are expandable.
Sorry, you wanted details on the small EDC bag. It was sent to me by George from PackTenna. It's on their website and referred to as a gear bag. It's perfect for an HT.
@@TheTechPrepper is that the bag seen in this video?
@@WilliamMcKeehan No. ;-) Still recovering.
long press 1 for noaa?
Hi Gaston, do you or any of your followers know if the FT65R will work with the FT60 accessories you are using? Specifically the AAA battery pack. Thanks for any help
I don't have an FT-65, but I am nearly positive that the batteries are not compatible with each other. The hand mic is also not compatible. You'll want the SSM-17B Compact Speaker Mic for the FT-65. The FT-65 has a great price point and some intriguing features. As soon as funds permit, I'll be getting one. The FT-4 is also something that I'm considering. Hi hope this helps, Tim.
@@TheTechPrepper Thanks for the reply, for sure the FT65 is a great price point, $89 @R&L Electronics and DX Engineering
None of the accessories for the FT-60 will fit the FT-65/25. Different battery packs, different speaker/mic connections and even the antenna connection is the opposite way round (pin on the radio).
Other than the price, is there any reason you don’t use a radio with APRS built in?
I have a Kenwood D74A that has APRS and great features like a user accessible TNC and all-mode wide band receive. In today's market it's an $650-$800 HT, but it's construction is too fragile and would break based on my use. I will likely sell it this year. The older Yaesu VX line of radios are tanks and had APRS, but they're all discontinued and the prices on the secondary market are nuts. Some of the APRS HT's are touch screen and they don't work well with sweat or gloves.
Just dipping my toe into Ham and I am overwhelmed with the information. Can you explain why you went with the 60r vs the 65r or the 70dr? The Yaesu site doesn't really explain it in a way I can digest.
I am a very different operator that prefers established, reliable gear. The FT-60R has been on the market since 2005 and is still in active production, so it has a proven track record. The other radios are newer, so you can't say the same thing yet. I also appreciate that the FT-60R is simple to use and that it has served me well for the last 3 years. Recently, I have switched to the VX-6R as my EDC radio as I needed an IP67 rated HT with more ruggedness for my trails run. Like the FT-60R, it has been on the market since 2006. I did an entire video series on the VX-6R. There is no perfect radio and every radio operator has different needs.
Can uv5r fit ar15 or ak magpouch
I have a question, why do you use the Comet, instead of a Signalstuff Signal Stick which can handle 100watts and has a life time guarantee?
I actually have two SignalSticks and six Comets. The BNC-24 is actually a 1:1 match on my PackTenna TrekMount. I use that combo for SSB with my FT-857/818. The Comet is good up to 20 watts and I typically operate with a least power philosophy. Also, for RF exposure, I do not feel comfortable running 100 watts with an antenna that close. As for the HT's, I do a lot of trail running and Comet is lighter and less of an eye hazard.
@@TheTechPrepper Thanks I was just making sure I did not goof :)
What do you have in the front pocket of the double-decker taco?
Usually nothing, but I occasionally will put an extra pistol magazine in the front pouch. I re-used the gear I had which was the Double Decker TACO. If I was going to do this again, I would just buy the single M4-sized TACO pouch.
@@TheTechPrepper Gotcha. Thanks for the explanation and the update.
Morning
Happy Saturday!
I'm licensed/MoA'd under Parts 90, 95, & 97 & use field programmable Part 90 HTs that have "AA" batt packs and/or have micro USB ports that I can recharge from a power bank/solar. I stick with Icom (V-86 Export & Baofeng BF H-5), and am going to test a TYT & Radioddity battery to check compatibility with my KSUN. I've never had good luck with Yaesu. My only gripe with Icom is lack of world wide availability for some units. I.E. the IC U-86 (UHF/70cm vers of the V-86). The only Icom distr who can sell it as a 90 or 97 are in the Philippines and Vietnam... I have public safety freqs in my rigs too. I'll use whatever I have to to save a life ! Why ? My experience is that NOT all hams are friendly. Enjoyed your video. Don't sweat the amateur "radio cops/trolls". You have a good kit/set up. Hope your Yaesu holds up! New sub.
Welcome to the channel. I love your mix of radios. It's great to have different tools for different jobs. I just had my first Yaesu fail. It was the FT-60R. The hand mic took in a lot of sweat and shorted the radio. I'm still a huge fan of this radio and purchased a replacement. For trail runs where I sweat heavily, I switched to the VX-6R since it is water resistant.
@@TheTechPrepper The VX6R is a nice one, and a properly done MARS mod will also open it from 45-55mhz @ 5 watts. Stock up on batteries/get the AA 1 watt pack/ DC cord bc on 5w 5/5/90 you'll be lucky to get 6 hours. I live in "hurricane central" and just went through Hurricane Ida last year and was without power for 15 days. But I had working comms bc I could operate/ recharge using a few forms of DC. I'd like to get a dozen or so lithium ion AA cells and the appropriate charger and see how well they charge off a power bank w/ fold out solar panels. In a SHTF scenario you're not going to have access to your car's cigarette lighter plug, or an unlimited supply of alkaline AA cells.
@@baronedipiemonte3990 That is true about the vehicle's cigarette adapter, but I actually also have a female cigarette adapter-to-Anderson Powerpole cable. This allows me to charge off the LiFePO4 cells I carry. Works great for charging HT's in the field.
What SMA to BNC adapter do you like using? Thanks, KI5HHK
I use the Diamond Antenna BNCJ-SMAP on all my Yaesu HT's.
If I buy the Talentcell battery pack do I need any other connectors/adapters to connect this to my Yaesu FT-60R
I used this male-to-male 2.1mm x 5.5mm patch cable (amzn.to/3a33sHS). Then, I used an adapter connector to go to the FT-60 (amzn.to/3lY38Nn). I can't remember which size, but it's covered in this set.
@@TheTechPrepper Thank you sir.
Looking for a chest rig to put over the plate carrier. My plate. I will leave it at that
Take a look at Haley Strategic. I've heard good things about Hill People Gear.
No arguments from me on your choices but I am curious if you looked at the yaesu FT-4x and what your thoughts are?
Great price point. Love that it has VOX. If I can drop it like my FT-60R without it dying and if it can take some light rain, that could be another great option. Its worth researching. Anyone else have experience with it?
And, it has FM broadcast receive! The Baofeng has this. I wish the FT-60R had this receive capacity for local news.
@@TheTechPrepper the ft-65 is barely bigger than the 4X however has factory extended battery available and a hidden menu where you can activate dual display.
Thanks for the quick feedback! I haven't used mine as hard as you have but it's held up better than I thought it would. I also like that the MARS/CAP mod is a six digit code instead of a solder job. Battery capacity and field charging is the biggest problem for your use case.
@@ericbjorkman4665 the ft4x and ft65 charging cradle is very small and light. I just made a power pole to barrel plug and charge off my Bioenno.
USB C charging is a game changer
I think the Yaesu is a better built radio. The problem is that it won’t transmit on all bands . UHF or VHF
Where did you get those black BNC connectors?
Ham Radio Outlet. It's the Diamond BNCJ-SMAP. This is the model for most Japanese radios (not the Chinese radios).
@@TheTechPrepper Thanks! What do you put on the antenna to make them connect? I live down the road for HRO Anaheim!
@@majordude I am not sure what you mean. That adapter allows you to connect a BNC-style antenna (instead of an SMA antenna). Personally, I am using the Diamond BNC-24. whip antenna, however, you can attach any BNC-antenna with this adapter. HRO will know what to sell you if you give the Diamond part product name I gave you.
@@TheTechPrepper Thank you! BTW, did you confirm that you can slide the sleeve down and cover the nut without a 3D printed washer?
What adapter was used at 10:15
It's a 5.5x2.1mm female to 4.0x1.7mm male adapter.
those radios doesNOT have Repeater Funtions, So transmitter doesnot works thru repareater Tower Station, to make longer call up to 100miles away
GME radio, Uniden Radio, Motorola Radio they do have Repeater mode
Dont worry about the video length, the more info the better.
Got it. Thanks for the feedback.
The big thing that frustrates me to no end about these HTs is charging and waterproofing. To be a truly great backpacking/prepping ham, these absolutely need a bombproof IPX7 water-rated housing. If it can float, even better. Basically, proper marine radio features in an amateur ham package. Even IP67/68 would be great.
Secondly, they really need to get on board with direct USB-C PD charging. If I pack a bag, I absolutely have no room for desk chargers. I need all my devices to have direct charging. Micro USB or DC 12V at a minimum (I also have a TalentCell pack), preferably USB-C PD. As of today, I only know of two radios that do this: the Baofeng 2022 UV15R, and the JIANPAI 8800. Neither of these radios are IPX7, but only IP54/55.
Direct charging should be non-negotiable on a prepper ham.
Excellent points. With the exception of charging, I'm looking into commercial part 90 radios that cover VHF/UHF. They're expensive, but they're bomb proof. I wish the amateur radio manufacturers would build something like you are describing.
Our emergency group has radios issued by the county that include police, fire, etc. frequencies. You have to be vetted by the county to handle these radios. Also, permission to use them is allowed only when activated. You. Don't. Screw. Up. The various official groups have really appreciated our involvement.
That's great that your providing value to the community. Keep up the good work.
First, i would like to say i'm not shooting at you. 1) I have 6 Baofeng UV-5Rs for my whole family for about $150.00. 2) the Baofeng UV-5 transmits on the MURS/FRS/GMRS/2M/70CM bands, even the so called blocked ones. To unlock the new UV-5R hold the light, PTT, A/B buttons simultaneously while turning the volume knob on, this does a factory reset (you will see the word FACTORY on the screen.). Then ypu are good to go.
Thanks for sharing the tips. The UV-5R's have great value for the money. They support FM broadcast, too. I appreciate the tips for the newer models.
@@TheTechPrepper I posted an Alert update, my previous info was incorrect. To factory reset, it's hold the light, PTT, VFO(orange button on front panel) buttons simultaneously while turning the volume knob on, sorry for the previous wrong info.