Handheld Commercial Radio and Ham

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Irish11

Irish11

10 Year
Joined
Jan 23, 2012
Threads
116
Messages
1,061
Location
Everett, Wa
I am looking for something handheld for SAR work. I need to be able to access commercial frequencies. Right now it’s between the Wouxun KG-UV2D & KG-UV6D and the BaoFeng UV5R. I am looking for recommendations. I would like something with some waterproof to it and something that can handle being used outdoors in less than ideal conditions. I really would like to stay as close to $100-125 for the radio if I can, but I would rather buy nice than buy twice. What does everyone recommend?
 
I wouldn't waste money on the Chinese radios for SAR work, get a Yaesu or other main stream brand. I have the VX-7R which is a great radio but you might look at the VX-8R which includes GPS functionality.

Don't get me wrong the Chinese radios are okay for a back-up to your mobile unit or for casual use but if you are depending on it for serious work don't go cheap. My VX-7 has been banging around in my day pack for a couple of years now and still works great, this probably wouldn't be the case for a less expensive radio.

Just my .02 opinion.
 
rusty_tlc said:
I wouldn't waste money on the Chinese radios for SAR work, get a Yaesu or other main stream brand. I have the VX-7R which is a great radio but you might look at the VX-8R which includes GPS functionality.

Don't get me wrong the Chinese radios are okay for a back-up to your mobile unit or for casual use but if you are depending on it for serious work don't go cheap. My VX-7 has been banging around in my day pack for a couple of years now and still works great, this probably wouldn't be the case for a less expensive radio.

Just my .02 opinion.
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Thanks, that's what I figured. I found a good deal on a used VX-3 that I almost went for, but its only 1.5watts. I find FT-60r's used in good shape too, but I need the commercial ability.
 
Virtually all frequencies outside the amateur band are narrow band now so you're going to want something that's narrowband capable. (12.5 KHz channel spacing 2.5 KHz deviation). VX-3 isn't narrowband capable which you'll need for SAR, assuming King Co. WA. Was wise to pass it up.

Specs on the Wouxun KG-UV6D claim it can do narrowband which is good. Unclear if it's type accepted by the FCC for commercial & public safety use yet. That's something to check. I like that it's small with a Li-ion battery - good when lugging a heavy pack up Mt. Si. On the other hand I'm not a fan of cheap imported junk either. I have Motorola commercial radios for HAM use. Nice but also the size & weight of a brick.
 
The one I posted does narrow band and is in the OPs price range which is why I posted it. If he now has $500 for a handheld, then there are other Japanese/US options. But remember, if not assembled in China, a lot of the components are made there. Let's face it even brand does not guarantee quality. If you want a SARs radio, then buy a radio that many SARs are using. :meh:
 
If SAR is your job, they will give you a radio. If you are a volunteer, they will specify or recommend one. If you are just looking to monitor SAR channels or use one in an emergency, then a Wouxun or BaoFeng will get the job done.
 
Pin_Head said:
If SAR is your job, they will give you a radio. If you are a volunteer, they will specify or recommend one. If you are just looking to monitor SAR channels or use one in an emergency, then a Wouxun or BaoFeng will get the job done.
Click to expand...

Thanks everyone for the input. I am just waiting to hear back on just that. I am a volunteer so I'm hoping they will get back to me with a recommendation.
 
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