Which Radio Should I Get?

[DaveInSA]

My recommendation:

Get whatever those you'll be riding with are already using. Both for compatibility (gmrs/cb/ham) and more people using the same radio is always nice when trying to figure something out / fix something

As for one radio to do it all, legally there's no way to do that. You can't use a gmrs radio to transmit on ham frequencies and vice versa. Technically yes (unless the radio is locked), legally no. At least in the United States.

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[BroncoKong Jr.]

The Baofeng UV-5R is a great multi frequency radio that my spotter uses when outside the truck. It also is a great scanner as well. Large frequency range to use too. Rugged Radios use the same radio just packaged in a different casing.

Worth noting that you need a ham radio license to legally transmit on these, and only on ham bands. But you can listen to any frequency you want, license or not.

 

[JediMcMuffin]

Worth noting that you need a ham radio license to legally transmit on these, and only on ham bands. But you can listen to any frequency you want, license or not.

You're not wrong, but I love that notarubicon guy on Youtube who basically points that the FCC doesn't really go after anybody for these things, his "some people" comments are hilarious

 

[The Beaz]

I have the MXT575 and am still not sure where to put it. It's so much bigger than the 275. Eventually adding a Yaesu 400 as well.

Lots of space right behind the OBD port....mounted mine to the module bracket there.

 

[mpeugeot]

So as far a GMRS goes, yesterday I ordered a Retevis RA-25 (clone of the very popular, but no longer available, Radioddity DB-20G) along with a Nagoya UT-72G Antenna. It is a solid 20W unit that doesn't get hot. $106 for the radio plus 35 for the antenna.

If you watch the video tests, you can see that it has more than enough power for most people.

 

[BroncoKong Jr.]

Lots of space right behind the OBD port....mounted mine to the module bracket there.

Any drilling or does it just bolt right up?

 

[The Beaz]

Any drilling or does it just bolt right up?

I had to drill the midland bracket so I could use the bolt from the module bracket, then zip tied the lower end.

 

[BroncoKong Jr.]

I had to drill the midland bracket so I could use the bolt from the module bracket, then zip tied the lower end.

This is awesome, thanks

 

[NewBroncoOwner]

Worth noting that you need a ham radio license to legally transmit on these, and only on ham bands. But you can listen to any frequency you want, license or not.

Ive been utilizing ham freqes for 25 years and not once have been approached by the FCC. Don't be scared of the FCC for hand held radios, there is no money involved like FM and AM radio bands that are broadcasting to obtain revenue

 

[Natai]

Also consider that if you're new to mobile radios - likely if you're asking for broad recommendations here - that jumping into full-blown Ham radios might be more of a learning curve than you're looking for.

 

[Ingridthehorrible]

Not here to be any ones big brother, we are all adults do as you will.

As to the comments about the FCC not enforcing the rules, as a general statement that is the case. However once you cause interference to a licensed user or cause interference to licensed services or other bandwidths outside of your legally allowed use, and someone complains to the FCC about the interference, the FCC can and will investigate. Most times the FCC will give the offender the chance to resolve the issue and if it's a unlicensed offender issue a cease and desist order. The FCC can and will if needed issue hefty fines.

I've worked for a major communications company for over 40 years and on occasion dealt with FCC complaints about interference issues.

Licensed or not you are responsible if you cause unlawful interference to any communications.

Bottom line make sure your equipment is in good working order, properly tuned and not running output power exceeding the legal limit. Follow these three simple rules and you will most likely never hear from the FCC licensed or not. However do recommend you obtain a license if legally required.

One other piece of advice stay away from HAM bands unless licensed, a lot of licensed HAM radio operators are known to be overly protective of their freq's and will complain to the FCC.

 

[mpeugeot]

Also, if you have any illegally copied video tapes from the 80's, expect a $250,000 fine and 10 years in prison... YMMV.

OU812 signing out.

 

[The Beaz]

This is awesome, thanks

added a few pics of my install at this thread:

https://www.bronco6g.com/forum/threads/super-clean-gmrs-radio-install.42659/post-1466664

 

[GRPinehurst]

I just want a CB with PA functionality

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