Baofeng UV-5R

[gm2]

So, with the upcoming ban on these things I went ahead and got 6 of them and have a book coming to study for my test.

Honestly I'm just still in shock that my wife let me get them.

Sent from my S41 using Tapatalk

[bacpacker]

I just added a couple to my stock on Amazon Prime Day. I plan to use them as radios for the GHB in our vehicles.
I know several different folks that have them and have heard ZERO issues so far.

[gm2]

I've just started studying for my tech license. Looks like it will be a long road though

Sent from my S41 using Tapatalk

[bacpacker]

Tech license isn't too bad, General is a little tougher, Extra was a bitch.

Are you using any of the on-line testing sites? If not I would recommend them. Go thru them repeatedly until your passing 75-80% regular before you go for your test.

- - - Updated - - -

Here is a link.

https://www.eham.net/exams/

[gm2]

Yeah, plus I have some free print offs and a book coming. There are a couple flash card apps for my phone too. I'm doing my best. Electricity is not my thing though.

Sent from my S41 using Tapatalk

[bacpacker]

Just stick with it. You'll get there.

[Kesephist]

Looks like a plan. Any of em got more advanced antennas than what Baofeng supplies? It may sound like a small thing, but when you are down there doing QRP, getting all you can out of it may be crucial.

And fergossakes make sure your people know how to run SIMPLEX... In candor I am not all wedded to repeaters the way some are. In a SHTF they may be down with the rest of things.

[bacpacker]

Completely agree about using simplex for emergency ops. Some repeaters are solar powered, but most aren't.

[orangetom1999]

I have a number of these Baofeng radios in 5 and 8 watt models as well as the oversized batteries.

Most walkie talkies..the factory antennas on them are marginal at best..and better more efficient antennas are available for them.

I believe these are designed as a commercial radio which just happens to accommodate the ham radio bands.

I have the GMRS/FRS frequencies programmed into mine as well as the MURS frequencies.

I have also taught myself to program these radios manually so as not to be dependent on a computer program or programming cable should the SHTF or worse. I believe in manual override when I can....self sufficiency …..and not to be too dependent on a lot of tech requiring extensive support.

I believe these radios were cutting too deeply into the American ham radio markets at those prices....hence the ban.


But for the monies the Baofengs cannot be beat and I can afford to loose or get them damaged and not be out a lot of money.

Here is the link to one of my better Baofeng antennas though it is a long antenna..it is noticeably efficient for what it is.


https://www.amazon.com/42-5-Inch-ABB...0783995&sr=8-1

Orangetom
Not an Ishmaelite

[Brownwater Riverrat 13]

I have also taught myself to program these radios manually so as not to be dependent on a computer program or programming cable should the SHTF or worse. I believe in manual override when I can....self sufficiency …..and not to be too dependent on a lot of tech requiring extensive support.




https://www.amazon.com/42-5-Inch-ABB...0783995&sr=8-1

Orangetom
Not an Ishmaelite

BZ! The only way to learn to work a radio is by pushin those buttons brother! At's what this site's all about! WTSHTF you can't rely on computers you have to rely on yourself! I cannot emphasize this enough, be self sufficient.........as I'm tappin away on this keyboard.