Communications on the Road and on the Trail

[Ray Mitchum]

Over the years that I'm been traveling this backroads and adventuring, I've realized that cell phone coverage is just not enough when going into the remote areas. For years I've been a big advocate for CB radios and while I still run one of these setup in my vehicles, communication has evolved. I now advocate purchasing GMRS radio. These radio have incredibly clarity and range over CB's and the cost of getting into one can be as inexpensive as $25. I personally use this Baofeng that supports FRS, GMRS and even HAM radio frequencies, https://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-UV-5...ectronics&sprefix=baof,electronics,221&sr=1-3

Please note that while it is legal to us FRS channels for free, you do need a license if you plan on using the GMRS and HAM frequencies. Here is the FCC website you can register to use GMRS channels: https://apps.fcc.gov/coresWeb/publicHome.do

 

[pickles]

Hi Ray, it's been a while since I practiced my HAM skills but I own a UV-5R and I'm fairly certain it is not legal to transmit for GMRS/FRS. Here is an ironic explanation for why (

) but long story short this device is not approved by the FCC for use on these bands.

I don't think anyone is going to come chasing you down for it but we should probably not advocate this device for this purpose.

Michael <KG5WVZ> Pichler

 

[Ray Mitchum]

Good to know! So what would be a more acceptable handheld device for GMRS? Would anything from Midland work?

 

[pickles]

I'll take a look at what's out there and post back!

 

[Clifford_the_Big_Red_Ford]

@Ray Mitchum BTECH GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99mhz (VHF) 400-520.99mhz (UHF)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWOLZ8L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_mDRnQqQ6c5meD
This is a legal option for GMRS because it doesn’t have the capability of switching to HAM from what I’ve read

 

[Ray Mitchum]

@Ray Mitchum BTECH GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99mhz (VHF) 400-520.99mhz (UHF)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWOLZ8L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_mDRnQqQ6c5meD
This is a legal option for GMRS because it doesn’t have the capability of switching to HAM from what I’ve read

Thanks David! Maybe I'll buy a couple of these for folks that don't have comms on the trail.

 

[Ray Mitchum]

I think I've settled in to what I want to upgrade my coms to. I'm really liking the look and reviews of the Midland MTX275 to mount in my vehicle. I like the idea of have a permanently mounted unit rather then always bumbling around with my handheld unit. Are any of you running this unit?

MXT275 GMRS Two-Way Radio | Midland Radio

The Midland MXT275 MicroMobile two-way radio offers 15 GMRS channels, a powerful USB-C charging port, NOAA weather alerts, & more. Order yours today.

midlandusa.com

 

[Clifford_the_Big_Red_Ford]

I have this one mounted in the Jeep. I chose it over the one your looking at because it doesn’t have the overly complicated mic I’d rather my adjustments be on the radio less accidental volume or channel changes. But I do have to deal with an issue with communication while moving at Hwy speeds. People say it’s hard to understand my transmissions at Hwy speeds but no issues while trail riding. Side note they did just come out with a monster 50 watt mobile unit, it’s only 2.35x as much. https://midlandusa.com/collections/micromobile/products/mxt115-micromobile-2-way-radio

 

[Ray Mitchum]

I have this one mounted in the Jeep. I chose it over the one your looking at because it doesn’t have the overly complicated mic I’d rather my adjustments be on the radio less accidental volume or channel changes. But I do have to deal with an issue with communication while moving at Hwy speeds. People say it’s hard to understand my transmissions at Hwy speeds but no issues while trail riding. Side note they did just come out with a monster 50 watt mobile unit, it’s only 2.35x as much. https://midlandusa.com/collections/micromobile/products/mxt115-micromobile-2-way-radio

Yeah, I'm cheap so the 50 watts will have to wait. What unit did you end up buying? I've been research this company as it would provide a great solution. It interrupts the stereo and allows the transmissions to come through the speakers: https://audiointerrupt.com/

 

[Ray Mitchum]

I just pick up an 8-Pack of these radios for club use. They'll serve as a great way for the groups to stay in touch until they decide what communication solution works for them.

 

[Clifford_the_Big_Red_Ford]

I bought the one I linked above. As for the radio cut out device kind of cool but only issue I have is sometimes I have a tendency of turning the radio down and that would also turn down the communication radio from what I can tell.

 

[tim_monzingo]

So I've got a pair of these Midland X Talker T31 little walkie talkies we got for Christmas a few years ago: https://midlandusa.com/products/x-talker-t31vp-2

Do those work with GMRS frequencies as well as the FRS frequencies? I know you have to be licensed for GMRS, but some of the stuff I was reading about the little radios I have said they'd work with GMRS. Just kinda curious. Thought about bringing them along this weekend to test it out for fun after seeing comments about the radio bands.

Always been interested in HAM stuff, but never REALLY got into it before.

 

[Ray Mitchum]

So I've got a pair of these Midland X Talker T31 little walkie talkies we got for Christmas a few years ago: https://midlandusa.com/products/x-talker-t31vp-2

Do those work with GMRS frequencies as well as the FRS frequencies? I know you have to be licensed for GMRS, but some of the stuff I was reading about the little radios I have said they'd work with GMRS. Just kinda curious. Thought about bringing them along this weekend to test it out for fun after seeing comments about the radio bands.

Always been interested in HAM stuff, but never REALLY got into it before.

Yes bring them! They will work. From my understanding, the main difference between the FRS and the GMRS is the wattage versus the frequency. We'll all be able to speak using either FRS or GMRS, but the GMRS channels broadcast with higher wattage therefore more range. If you are interested in getting your GMRS license you can do it here on the FCC Registration site: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do?btnContinue=true
Note: There is no test for GMRS, just a fee for the license.

 

[Ray Mitchum]

So I ended up buying the Midland MXT275 for my Excursion and it was worth every single penny! I've since used it on the Disney, Utah, and Marble Falls trip and I couldn't be happier with its performance. Bobert and I actually did a test when separating off in Alstrom Point and we could still make out each other's conversation at 20 miles. Incredible.

 

[Meady]

I know/Think Ronnie is, but anyone else in the forums a HAM operator? KI5ROO myself. I run a wouxon uv9dplus on a mobile antenna when I am traveling.