radio newbie

[1leg]

Ok I need help. I'm not into this radio thing to much. But i know i will need something. I will more then likly be doing some solo trips nothing to far out and maybe just a day or two. However i would like to have some kinda of radio incase i need to get help. I have a CB but it doesn't help much unless your in a close group. What would you guys suggest? I'm not oposed to getting my Tech lic if i have to. However i want it to be simple.

Where should i start?
what radio should i get?

 

[crawler#976]

Hey!

A rugged basic mobile 2M like a Yaesu FT-2800M and a mag mount antenna is what I started with. Cost from Universal Radio is $120.00 for the radio, add a 5/8 wave antenna is $33.00, throw in shipping and you've got a great rig for well under 2 bills.

http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/fm_txvrs/2800.html
http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamantm/4479.html

I upgraded from the 2M only to a dual band after finding out I enjoyed Ham Radio as a hobby vs. just for comms. Initial cost is higher, but having another band opens up a lot more comm opportunities.

Mark

 

[Jonathan Hanson]

Two-meter, absolutely.

The license is easy - it's a 35-question test; you can learn all you need to know to pass it on various sites around the web.

Two-meter communication is way beyond CB in range and quality. You won't be sorry.

 

[crawler#976]

Doing some research on the area you plan on traveling in is vitally important with a Ham radio. If you don't know the location of, and proper codes to access local repeaters, it will severely limit your ability to communicate. I rarely hear simplex (radio to radio) comms - virtually all of it is done via repeaters. With one linked local repeater I can cover almost 40% of Arizona - From Flagstaff it covers Holbrook to Tuba City to Prescott and Payson, from Mt Ord it covers from Payson to Gila Bend to Central Phx.

Mark

 

[DaktariEd]

I'll second what was said above, but I also came across this baby in the recent issue of Overland Journal: Spot
That looks like something I might also be able to use as I often go solo fairly remote.
When it comes out in a few days or so, I hope to get more info...maybe even field test it!

 

[Pskhaat]

Where should i start?

There was an absolutely brilliant piece in the first Overland Journal concerning this.

 

[Gear]

pskhaat
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1leg
Where should i start?

There was an absolutely brilliant piece in the first Overland Journal concerning this.

Hello 1leg,
If you would like a free copy of the first issue of Overland Journal. Just shot me a PM. I am right around the corner from you in SEH. I have one extra one on my workbench Thanks to Scott Brady. You can also check out my 2m location in the JK.

 

[1leglance]

Hello fellow 1 legged person....your forum name really caught my attention
While I agree that ham radio is the way to go for emerg comm and overall quality I would add that if you are going to go on trail runs with others check and see what they are using..
family band walkie talkies (cheap to have anyway)
cb (you can go to walcottcb.com and get a quick and simple setup for $75 radio/antenna)

Also seeing that you are in Socal you should post up anytime you are thinking of going out so that others can join you, safety in numbers, ease of recovery, super secret trails others know about and all that.

Once you get a ham radio (and being on expo here you will sooner or later) join us on every other Tues for the IRLP Expo Radio Net so that you can practice with repeaters and such and chat with your new circle of friends.

Oh yeah and welcome aboard

 

[1leg]

Thanks everyone for the info. I bought the ARRL Ham Radio Licence Manual on my way home from work today.(Had a gift card)

GEAR
I would love a free copy, but I'm not sure where SEH is. PM sent

 

[HMR]

Gear- Thanks for the PM. I tried to reply but your box is full.

 

[1leg]

Meet Justin today.
Nice Rig(s)

Thanks for the Mag. I think i will be subscribing soon.

 

[1leg]

Tech test Dec 15th

I have signed up for the Tech test on Dec, 15th should be on air by the first of the year. I want to get a dual band 2m/440. But funds are tight right know so will see.

JD