I realize that stuff affects range. What I'm asking is... If
I were to want to mod the unit to get better range (say 20-30 miles)
would a certain model be better/easier to mod than another.

wrote:
snip
3. If I'd like to get 20-30 miles range (assuming a mod) is any of
the unidens better to mod than others.


Big question mark here. Noise, atmospheric and man made determine
your distance. At night when it's whisper quiet you can easily talk 20
- 30 miles.