On Mon, 29 Dec 2003 11:50:42 +0900, "Brenda Ann"
wrote:


"Gary S." Idontwantspam@net wrote in message
.. .
On Sun, 28 Dec 2003 17:17:42 -0800, "MBlaster"
wrote:

I am looking into the GMRS radios for my family. What units would anyone
recommend? Are there any test reviews available.

As an FYI, when they say "UP TO 5 miles", here in the real world,
think "UP TO TWO miles if everything goes right".

Also, stick with brands you have heard of, less like to create
headaches. Pricing on identical items can vary greatly, so shop
around.

And don't forget... the GMRS license itself costs as much as two or three of
the radios ($75).... : |


Yes, but the one GMRS license covers literally everyone in your
family. Aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, you name it, they are
covered. Gets pretty cheap if 10 people get radios.

I agree with the comments regarding power and range. If you want any
kind of decent performance, don't get one of the bubble pack radios
like you see at Wal-Mart. Get a real radio, and make sure it has a
removable antenna. If you buy a combo FRS/GMRS it won't have one as
it's not legal on FRS. It's good to be able to use a mag-mount, etc
for increased range. I have two (real), 5-watt GMRS radios, and two
25-watt mobiles. With a decent antenna you can cover a pretty good
area. If you want to use (or put up) a repeater, be sure the radio
can transmit and receive on the GMRS repeater frequencies.

Dick - W6CCD
WPUF301