CB Radio vs HAM

[Gappy]

I want to install a CB in my rig for trail use, so I have been doing a little research on what is best. This lead me too the virtues of HAM radio. Does anybody use a HAM on the trail? With the capability of a HAM, sounds like a great idea, but I want to stick with what the guys are doing that I wheel with, not so much what guys are doing in other parts of the country.
What CB's are good? Any to stay away from?

 

[PhilC64]

I went with the Cobra 75 WX ST. I've had it for the last several month's and love its compact design. It works great whether I'm on the trail or on the road. I can unplug it and remove it from my FJ when I'm done for the day.

Cobra - the Online Source For Wireless Electronics

 

[Cruiser Jimmy]

I've had good luck with my cobra single din unit. Some of the problems I've seen are with antenna's, regardless of the CB unit. A properly placed antenna and it's mounting has done just fine on the trail for me.

 

[Polak]

CB's are regulated for out put wattage and off the shelf should be about the same, cough cough. Cobra is probably going to be the best bang for your buck, but if you wanna step it up a little there are many other brands out there, but better comes with a price.

My only advice is spare no expense when it comes to the coax cable and antenna.

I went w/ the Cobra 18 for the 80 like Jimmy, Carl, and many other 80 owners, since it's a clean install, and I got a Cobra 19 from SpaceGhost for the 40.

HAM is awesome, but I don't think any of the HC use it.

 

[Gappy]

Thanks for the input, I'll go shopping.

 

[toyman317]

I have used 2 meters ham and it is quite fun and very capable. I would be the only one that I know of that has a ham radio (handi-talkie). To legally use ham, you have to pass a test to get a call sign. It is not like CB at all...but a lot better communication abilities. Go with the CB. That is what all the HCs use.

 

[tonyota]

I use a Cobra also. I can't think of the model right now, but it is small and easy to use. It works well.

 

[woody]

I've got the Cobra 75 WX ST in my Duramax...and had them in the team FJ Cruisers all year too...frankly, other than the compact design, I can't stand the things....but for the mounting convenience, they are workable...

I run cheap Uniden Pro510 and Pro520's in my offroad rigs...never had an issue, and they are inexpensive radios. I've had Cobra fullsize units and have yet to be impressed with them....

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I've also got a Yaesu VX-6 handheld....2M is one of the many frequency ranges on it...very impressed with the unit thus far, studying for my Technicians license presently. For out-west stuff where greater range is necessary, it'll be nice to have....for midwest wheelin, CB's are more than adequate.