Ok, First, you should read. There's a lot of information available online, but this is a good physical reference:

https://www.amazon.com/ARRL-Radio-License-Manual-Spiral/dp/1625950829/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541695126&sr=8-1&keywords=ham+radio+license+manual+2018

Second, a repeater is a station that takes in a signal and rebroadcasts it. Usually it's at a much higher power or better elevation. Elevation, power, and quality of antenna can all make a difference in average distance. Frequency can also make a difference. The radio you're looking at is a 2 meter band / 440 meter band radio. It broadcasts in the VHF (Very High Frequency) range and has a lower range than something in the HF (High Frequency) range. That probably means nothing to you right this moment because you don't have any context to base your knowledge on. But that should give you a couple terms to google.
The next thing you have to know is what repeaters are in your general area. That's a tough one. I am lucky enough to have some awesome ones in my area maintained by some really knowledgeable people. A good reference for what repeaters are in your area is here:

https://www.repeaterbook.com/

Third, the antenna. I got this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1541695485&sr=8-3&keywords=nagoya+na-771

It works well.

The way I get that much range is that one of the better repeaters is within 30 miles of my house and is both line of sight and I'm in it's range pretty much all day. Line of sight to the repeater can also make a difference. I'm sure others can suggest various other reading material for you about radio wave propagation and online study guides.

Feel free to PM me with any questions. I'm always happy to help!

Honestly if you are on a stock UV-5R, you may want to consider a few things.

Getting a better antenna for the HT itself.. the UV-5R's stock antenna is pretty lacking. Most people seem to end up with a Nagoya antenna such as:
http://amzn.to/1Y1CcbJ (shorter)
or
http://amzn.to/1Y1Clfg (longer)

Going with a rooftop antenna... Depending on the height of your roof and the risks involved getting up there you could try a simple JPole antenna that you could build (http://www.arrl.org/files/file/Public%20Service/TrainingModules/jpole-dual-band.pdf or http://www.n7qvc.com/copper-cactus-dual-band-super-j-pole-antenna-project/) or buy (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dual-Band-VHF-UHF-Base-Antenna-Ham-Commercial-MURS-GMRS-FRS-DBJ-1-/111884204187) or you could do a commercial antenna if like in my initial case, climbing to the top of the roof involves risking life and limb. I'll defer to others for suggestions on antennas, the Diamond X-30 and X-50's appear to be very popular.

In my early days as a ham I got a commercial dual band vertical which served me very well, but it was also up an insanely high pitch roof so I wasn't going to go up there again anytime soon. In my current setup, I'm quite happy with a simple Ed Fong Modified Jpole design in some PVC pipe on top of a 1 story roof.

Sometimes its a fun project to start building one even if you go commercial, its good to know your base antenna is of good quality and will last, but there is some joy in building it yourself and getting on the air knowing your handwork is the cause of your good signal :)

>I have a Baofeng UV-5R, and I really liked the learning curve of it all: CHIRP, the miklor.com site, discovering I can't do IRLP (stupid "D" tone doesn't work on the new Baofeng firmware).

I'm new too, passed my test on 5 July, got my callsign less than a week later. I got the BF-F8+ (which is supposedly the same as a UV-5R).

On my local repeaters there is IRLP, but it isn't set up so that just anyone can use it. You have to have permission. That said, the most popular repeater in my area is connected to the reflector in Denver all the time pretty much.

My community is pretty lively and active in the ARES and other emergency services. I'm listening to how they run nets every week, and actually last night there was a forest fire and they ran a standby net. I'm thinking of volunteering for that too. We have events that the local emergency organizations help with, like recently the Eppie's Great Race. All that you need to volunteer for stuff like that is a HT and a license.

Another thing I did was make an antenna following this tutorial.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkmD3Sgz7Q0

I haven't been able to try it over simplex yet. I did try it with my local repeater (N6ICW) but I guess I'm close to one of the receivers because I get reports that I'm full quieting with even with my Nagoya NA-771, so my home made antenna didn't sound any different for better or worse.

It looks like you have a fair number of 2M repeaters in and around Atlanta (I'm guessing that's where you're near). Maybe try listening on a few different ones. http://www.levinecentral.com/repeaters/google_mapping.php

Also I found this: http://www.nfarl.org/repeaters/Atlanta_Area_Repeaters.pdf

On the second page it list a bunch of nets, more than one every day of the week, try listening to some of those to see if there is something that piques your interest.

Also if you are still using the duck antenna, get rid of it and get one of these:

http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Nagoya-Updated-Antenna-BaoFeng/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/

If you're just looking into radio to see if it's right for you, which it seems like you are, your first port of call should be finding a radio club. It's easy, just go to this page from the ARRL. They'll help you get your license (seriously, wives of hams often have licenses they never thought they'd get), they're some of the nicest guys you'll ever meet, you can go over to their house and they'll let you try their radios out (you can operate a radio even if you're unlicensed, there just has to be a licensed operator with you), and in my experience, they're really generous and will let you borrow radios or just straight up give old ones to you that they don't use anymore. If you find out that radio isn't really for you, they're usually great friends overall and you'll probably be glad to have met them. They're also really great question-answerers.

___

Now, if you're already licensed and are looking into getting on 2 meters with a Baofeng, here's what I'd buy:

• This Baofeng UV-5R.
  
  
• This programming cable (Baofengs are notoriously hard to program from the keypad).
  
  
• This improved rubber duck antenna, since the stock one is a piece-o-shite.
  
  
• And finally, this cable that will allow you to connect the uncommon (in the ham radio world) SMA connector on the top of the baofeng to the infinitely more common PL-259 connector.
  
  All in all, you're looking at spending about a Benjamin or less on a proper Baofeng setup.
  
  Hope this helps!
  

My advice would be to get a flexible ear mold (you can have them custom made as well, but that involves trips to the audiologist and lots of money and doesn't improve things that much) like this: https://smile.amazon.com/HDE-Replacement-Earpiece-Insert-Acoustic/dp/B01N27TTDD/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1518372563&sr=8-5

This is not only way more comfortable, but it also doesn't block your hearing entirely in the ear the headset is in. The downside is that you'll perceive the radio as being quieter, but I think the increase in comfort and situational awareness was a great trade-off for me.

Then you can (in very small increments) trim the acoustic tube to length on both ends. They're all just press fit, so you shouldn't have to worry about messing anything up, just pull them apart. Start with the portion that loops over your ear and then cut it until it just fits over your ear comfortably. Once that's done, you can trim the end that hooks up to the transducer until it doesn't have any slack from where you're placing it (I found that the back center of my shirt collar proved to be ideal).

As this looks like a surveillance headset, I'm guessing you have to wear it for a while, and those two things made the biggest difference to me. I also bought a kevlar reinforced two wire headset because I was going through them so often, it proved to be damn near unbreakable. Unfortunately, the company that made it went out of business some time ago. The fact is on a quality headset, my experience is that the PTT button on the mic goes out first. If anything else goes out on your headset, you should probably be buying a better headset.

Also, don't forget to air dust the various tubes and parts (the transducer just snaps apart, so get in there too) to keep condensation from forming and wax from building up. And change your ear mold and acoustic tube at least every 6 months, if not more often. They not only get inflexible and crusty (especially if you're exposing them to a lot of uv light), but they can cause ear infections if you use them all day every day.

My 2¢, hope it helps. I'm not tacticool, but I wore a surveillance headset 12+ hours a day 5 days a week for about 10 years, so I spent a lot of time trying to optimize my setup.

I've been playing with 2m antennas for my UV5-R so I'll list some options I've played with starting from cheapest on up.

First get the antenna outside and as high as you can. Seems like a no brainer but it really increases your range. More so than a better antenna.

Add a counterpoise (aka tiger tail, rat tail, etc). Really just a piece of wire connected to the ground of your existing rubber duck and will cost almost nothing. If you search you'll probably find mixed reviews. I've noticed a marginal increase in range and reception.

Nagoya NA-771 is an inexpensive ($17) whip that is definitely better than the stock antenna you're using. No guarantees but it may have the extra gain you need to hit that repeater.

N9TAX roll up slim jim is portable antenna that you can throw in a back pack and deploy anywhere you can hang it - in your bedroom, from a balcony, etc. I've taken fishing line and a weight thrown them over a tree branch and hoisted it 10 feet in the air. Way better than your rubber duck and only $30 delivered with 16ft of feedline.

Building your own j pole will probably run you more than any of the previous options unless you have all the tools (torch, solder) and have scrap copper pipe laying around. That being said you might be able to make the slim jim yourself for a bit less (but not much). Building your own is lots of fun and you can learn a lot. It isnt always cheaper though. Try(http://www.hamuniverse.com/ke4nu450slimjim.html)[this] if it you're interested.

We use the Baofeng BF-F9 V2+ with Nagoya 701c antenna and QHM22 waterproof speaker/mic.

While inexpensive, these are full fledged HAM radio transceivers, not toys. You can't just take them out of the box and turn them on like walkie-talkies you buy at Walmart. They have to be properly programmed to talk to each other on the right frequency, including any tone coded squelch you wish to use.

Not that I'm a HAM radio expert or anything, but you do have to kind of know what you are doing to use these. They are capable of transmitting on frequencies you absolutely should not be using, like police, fire, ems, s&r, government, commercial, etc. It's also worth noting that unless you have an FCC license, you can't actually use these radios legally. However if you are just using them for occasionally dirt bike chit chat, using them responsibly, on the correct frequencies, and not pissing off other users, the chances of being caught are basically zero.

Bottom line is that these cheap Chinese HAM radios work great for dirt biking I have had great success, they have much better range and performance than cheap 'bubble-pack' FRS radios. But they do take a little research and effort to learn how to use them.

Here's how I started:

Boafeng radio

Better antenna

Local repeaters, you're gonna have to search your area.

Find your local club and get involved. Find an Elmer. Join the local nets (radio jargon for organized, over-the-airwave, get together)

Once yo've done that, assuming you have your tech license, you want to upgrade to the General. Then find a decent HF rig, a wire antenna, some trees to hang it in, and party on. Obviously the more you spend the better you'll be but you don't have to break the bank. I got a Yaesu 857d which does all bands, plus the accompanying tuner, a G5RV antenna and some feed line for about $1100 and I can do everything my club's shack can do. I've worked Antarctica and South Africa on that gear plus some 60+ other countries so I'm pleased.

The misconception is that you need a 1000' tower to get out but really a simple wire antenna can do you wonders. Though if you gotta choose where to spend the money go for better antennas as they can really make the difference.

Best money spent though will likely be the club membership. You'll meet people, get good deals on stuff people are selling, advice, even free stuff periodically.

Welcome!

The link you posted doesn't work. It got truncated somehow. Try pasting that again in the comments.

I always recommend the Baofeng UV-5R to the budget-minded. It costs $27 and is pretty good in performance (from my use and from what I've heard from others). With the stock antenna on this radio, you should be able to get a few miles of range in open spaces. You can upgrade the antenna to a "quarter wave" antenna to better that range. The higher up your antenna is in the air, the farther out you will be able to reach with your radio -- UHF/VHF radios are all 'line of sight'.

You will also be able to use local ham radio repeaters in your area to talk to people around you. Repeaters will greatly enhance your range as they are typically built on tall towers or hill tops. You can look for repeaters in your area on RepeaterBook. Under "band", select 2m or 70cm (the UV-5R supports both bands)

However, you're going to need a ham radio license (at least a Technician class) to transmit. Also, your family is going to need ham radio licenses to transmit. If this does not work for you, I would recommend FRS/GMRS radios or CB radios which can be used without a license.

Some ideas here:

A better whip antenna (others had some suggestions).

Magnetic mount antenna for the vehicle. MFJ-1721 or 1729 are cheap options. Diamond or Comet for higher quality. The Baofeng uses a SMA-male antenna connector so you'll need a SMA-female to BNC-female or SMA-female to SO-239 "pigtail" adapter cable. I don't recommend using a rigid adapter because the antenna cable can put mechanical stress on the radio's connector.

DBJ-2 antenna, a nice portable option for stationary use. Throw that in a tree and you'll get much improved range.

A speaker mic, then he can mount the radio at a fixed position in the vehicle. Makes it easier to use while driving.

Programming cable — makes it much easier to manage the list of stored frequencies and repeaters.

Extended battery — in addition to the increased runtime, this makes the radio fit my large hands better

Battery eliminator — powers the radio from a vehicle.

AA battery holder — replaces the rechargeable battery pack.

Some kind of bag or case to hold everything.

If you wanna go the hand mic option, literally any hand mic with a kenwood plug will work, i personally use a baofeng branded one. That mic can work on its own as both a speaker and a mic. If you wanna be a lil sneakier, it has a 3.5mm jack for earbuds, or you could even plug in a headset like Howard Leight Impacts. These do three things: they send the sound from your baofeng to your ears, they amplify quiet noises around you, and the muffle loud noises to a safe volume. They dont have q built in mic, which is why you'd need the hand mic.
Alternately, you could use a headset with a built in mic, like the z tactical Comtac. You will need a PTT , any design would work. Just make sure it has a Kenwood plug on one side and a military plug on the other.

I completely agree, I just can't justify the cost in relation to the radio especially for something so simple.

A good compromise however could be to take something like this https://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-BF-S112-Two-Radio-Speaker/dp/B008RZ0EQ0/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?keywords=btech+speaker+mic&qid=1568889384&sprefix=btech+speaker&sr=8-8

And modify it. You get a decent cable with a moulded plug on one end and you can cut the speaker and mic from the PCB to add cables for a pc

If you use something like this https://www.amazon.com/noot-products-Auxiliary-Headphones-Smartphones/dp/B07HCPVG4W/ref=sxbs_sxwds-deals?keywords=3.5mm+audio+cable&pd_rd_i=B07HCPVG4W&pd_rd_r=76ea0ba8-57fd-45ad-9e37-e7f0fca4871a&pd_rd_w=LLsMg&pd_rd_wg=79o50&pf_rd_p=7958e92f-adc8-4d7f-bef4-1e7fb156ae05&pf_rd_r=B2NC2EE005TNRJGV7F3V&qid=1568889703&smid=A3FSIWTA4211F2&sprefix=3.5

You can cut it in half and use the halves for the pc side of the cable

Skills required are basic hand tools to take apart the speaker mic and cut the wires for the speaker/mic, and basic soldering to make the 4 connections for the pc cables.

You get mostly factory quality cables with only a DIY join in the middle with a bonus PTT button to debug things.

Should be roughly half the cost of the APRS cable. And if you want to be adventurous you could add switches to retain the original function. Though that would take more skill and thought into the mod.

But as you say different people will want and will do different things and that's perfectly ok.

(It's shocking how much baluns and ununs cost compared to the components, I built a balun for my dipole, probably cost about £5 total compared to £40 for one online)

Sounds like an HT would be a good first addition.

• Baofeng UB-82 - Dual band HT, great for local communication, repeater access, etc etc. You can also monitor other public service frequencies/weather band. $37.50
  
• Handheld mic for the Baofeng - Nice if you keep it on your desk in a charger, or if the radio is clipped to a bag or something, you can still access the mic (it's also a speaker). $6.37
  
• USB Programming Cable - Easily program memory channels with your computer. $20.46
  
• Upgraded antenna for the HT - This one is pretty big, plenty on Amazon of various size which will vary in performance, but anything should be better than the stock antenna. $16.99
  
  Well that's $81.32. Remaining could be spent on an extra battery, a power cable for the car etc etc.

Maybe not the answer you want to hear, but do you have a computer programming cable? IIRC, Amazon sells (or sold) a relatively cheap fairly universal programming cable.

Run that with the free program Chirp, and you have a pretty inexpensive computer programming option.

I've found that sometimes when I'm almost ready to hurl my radio at a brick wall, programming software makes setting up the radio a breeze.

I've also found that when all else fails, the computer option is often the kick in the nuts a uncooperative radio needs.

Link to download Chirp.

Cheap programming harness

Good luck!

My ideas:

• 2 meter transceiver - Baofeng A great and cheap introduction into amateur radio. For those already a ham, I don't need to say anything more about the Baofeng.
  
  
• Baofeng 3800mAh Battery Double the capacity of the original battery. Makes it more unwieldy though.
  
  
• Weller Analog Soldering Station Imagine using an actually good soldering iron!
  
  
• Weller Industrial Soldering Gun If you like making antennas.
  
  
• APRSTM GPS position Encoder Broadcast your GPS coordinates through radio.
  
  
• Radio Astronomy Kit Listen to radio emissions from the Sun and Jupiter.
  
  
• Oscilloscope Kit See the a visual of RF? I haven't played with oscilloscopes.
  
  
• 20M CW Transceiver Kit Get 2 and practice morse code with a friend.
  
  
• Arduino Uno Starter Kit Arduino does more with electronics and Raspberry Pi more with Python programming.

I hope you enjoy the radio Buddy, I have the original UV-5R and love it. I strongly recommend you upgrade the antenna as the stock one isn't optimal for range.

The most oft-recommended antenna is the Nagoya 771: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KC4PWQQ?psc=1

For mobile 2m/440, I simply picked up a unity gain TRAM NMO mount mobile antenna https://www.amazon.com/Tram-140MHz-170MHz-430MHz-470MHz-Dual-Antenna/dp/B00IDTJ2KE/ with a trunk lip mount. I'm sure you could quickly find a NMO lipmount or front hood mount or fender mount. It's an unobtrusive short antenna that I easily hit repeaters with upwards of 50 miles away on 5 watts (I live in a valley so the repeaters are all line of sight on mountaintops.)

If you're looking more for HF antennas, your options grow narrower since it can't be "ugly" and HF antennas, even the loaded coil hamstick types, tend to be fairly conspicuous. A self-tuning antenna is the best compromise in those situations (e.g. a ATAS-120A). But I think you're looking for a normal VHF/UHF antenna.

I have seen antennas mounted between the cab and bed, and I cannot speak for their loss, but I imagine it's best to get it on the roof of the cab or on the edges of the vehicle somewhere for optimal performance.

I always get the Baofeng BF-F8HD. Awesome battery life, really durable for trainhopping, and awesome signal strength. I also highly recommend upgrading the antennae to the Nagoya NA-771 15.6inch Whip, as it increases your signal range by several miles.


​

Radio:

https://www.amazon.com/BaoFeng-BF-F8HP-Two-Way-136-174Mhz-400-520Mhz/dp/B00MAULSOK

Antennae:

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=pd_bxgy_107_img_3/142-7386824-8226412?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00KC4PWQQ&pd_rd_r=ee84ff36-27e8-11e9-bd5b-dfbc5f26256b&pd_rd_w=L5Vcb&pd_rd_wg=s6MTU&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=HYP4G85P8185BF2PNMEV&psc=1&refRID=HYP4G85P8185BF2PNMEV

+1 just get a new magmount with the proper connections that can handle 50W. (If you are not yet prepared to drill a hole...which is the "best" option).

Personally a huge fan of getting an NMO magnet mount and an NMO antenna.

• Mount: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00II89A3O/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d
  
• Antenna: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDTJ2KE/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d
  
  The total cost is about $30. Why go this route?
  
  

1. You get a good NMO magnet mount capable of a larger antenna if desired (Ive used the exact mount with a beefy 40" antenna with zero issues).
   
2. You get a mount with NMO which is a standard mobile mount, compatible with many antennas.
   
3. You get a good dual band antenna, which is also an NMO mount.
   
4. If you get a permanent or lip mount in the future, you can use this antenna since it is NMO. I personally have done this very thing, and have this antenna as my primary VHF/UHF antenna on an NMO mount on the roof of my SUV.
   
5. If you get a permanent or lip mount in the future, you can keep the NMO base and use it for road trips in rental cars, the spouse's car, etc.
   
   Basically, you get many options down the road.

If it's not in your camping gear already, firestarting gear. In particular a fire steel, since they can't get waterlogged. It's late spring early summer, but if you really kill the jeep offgrid, exposure can still sneak up fast.


I'd also recommend some kind of radio. Vehicle mounted would be the best, but that requires more knowledge, time, and money to set up. Regular FRS/GMRS 'walkie-talkies' is also good to have, but range is limited. For a 'cheap insurance' option, the baofeng uv-5r variants are cheap and powerful hand sets. I'll link some gear below. Keep in mind, these are HAM radios; you need a license to use them normally, but you won't get in trouble if you have to send out an urgent mayday if you're in danger. The range is much better on these thing over CB; before you take it out, pop on some YT vids about how to program in frequencies, and lookup local freqs that are used for emergencies.


https://www.amazon.com/Dual-Band-Transceiver-400-520MHz-65-108MHz-Upgraded/dp/B00YMN0SCG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=uv5r5&qid=1556650528&s=gateway&sr=8-1


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=psdc_764460_t1_B071JR2LZK

in better news, I tried https://www.amazon.com/VICTOR-JVC-EP-FX9M-B-Spiral-Earpiece/dp/B00JSLXNOC after the comply disappointment, and the spiral dots are basically perfect. they were still a bit of a pain to install, but once I got them on, they made isine sound the best I've heard them. I'm very happy with isine now.

>JVC Spiral Dot

Does the JVC spiral dot fit the Shure SE 215? One person mentioned in the reviews for the Medium size one (red packaging) that they slide right off.

Is it possible you can share the link if none of these will work with the shure? I like the existing comply but some people mentioned that the Spiral are a bit superior in comfort and sound.

https://www.amazon.com/VICTOR-JVC-EP-FX9M-B-Spiral-Earpiece/dp/B00JSLXNOC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527276918&sr=8-1&keywords=spiral+dot+earpiece

https://www.amazon.com/JVC-EP-FX9MS-B-replacement-earpiece-spiral/dp/B00Q2I15E4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1527276918&sr=8-2&keywords=spiral+dot+earpiece

https://www.amazon.com/VICTOR-JVC-EP-FX9S-B-Spiral-Earpiece/dp/B00JSLXOLE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1527276918&sr=8-3&keywords=spiral+dot+earpiece#customerReviews

You might want to look at something like a hamstick dipole then. They're pretty easy to put together and should just clamp to your balcony railing. Just populate them with a couple of fiber whips like your 3ft firefly, tune up and key up. And when the skip is rolling you can turn it sideways and you're ready to go.

Edit: Here an example of one used for pop up operating.

I have three of them and they're great.

Get the USB programming cable.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008RZJHJU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Don't bother with the software that comes with it. Just get CHiRP which is free and works well. I set all three of mine up with a basic configuration with FRS/GMRS stations programmed, all my local 2-meter stations, weather, etc. all sharing the same channel numbers so they can be used more or less as emergency radios.

I've swapped the antennas for this one. Im not sure which model you have, but they were a definite improvement over the stock rubber duck on my UV5R
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've also got a couple of these extended batteries:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ATTVKFQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have four Baofeng UV-5Rs. They use Kenwood plugs. I have one of these, and it works well, but I prefer not having my ears covered just so I can hear better, so I currently run one of these and I love it.

That's similar to what I use. I use a Retevis PTT (Which is shit) and Howard Leight Impact Sports. Works pretty well for the price. A nice Code Red PTT would be great.

Since you mentioned talking with local hams while riding a bike:

Baofeng UV-5r

External mic

This antenna mounted to a metal plate on a rear bike rack, or this antenna and you can just strap the radio to a back pack or your belt.

And you'll need a programming cable.
Use Chirp to program in all of the local repeaters as well as the 2m calling frequency and any other freqs you might want to use.

I didn't do the math, but that's well under $100 (probably around $50 in fact). You can also use the mag mount antenna on your car for mobile ops, I've been doing this for a while, and it works great, but I am finally upgrading to a real mobile with a more proper mobile whip.

Sure thing! Sounds like a fun project.

You could pick up one of these and modify the cable, it would be a bit easier.

This is a knockoff?. It's sold by "Baofeng Tech." Seems legit.

I have bought and checked with meters and it seems to be good. I'm pretty sure a diamond antenna I've bought in the past was a knockoff, actually.

Here are some pics of mine. I run an Icom ID-880H and Yaesu FTM-100DR and love them both. I am running the I am running the Diamond NR73BNMO antenna on the ID-880H and get great range on it. On the FTM-100DR I'm currently running the Tram dual-band because I cheaped out. Don't do that. I will be swapping it for a Diamond NR770HBNMO this weekend.

Get a BF-F9 V2+. There's a lot you can do with it. Get another antenna and a bigger battery for it. You now have a really versatile analog HT. You can reliably hit repeaters 15-ish miles away with it, depending on terrain, and in narrowband mode, probably a bit more. It has a DTMF keypad (DTMF = touch-tone phone keypad), so you can do some fun things with repeaters that have internet links and other little oddities. Get a programming cable and CHIRP, and you can do lots of fun and convenient things like program all your local repeaters and simplex calling freqs into it, and train it to swear.

Get a 12-volt power kit, a headset, and a mag-mount antenna, and now you have a halfway-respectable mobile rig. With that antenna, you'd be VERY surprised how far that little radio can reach out. I've talked to repeaters 25 miles away with my little BF-F9 and a mag-mount, and had no complaints about sound quality.

The point is, don't go crazy with expensive-ass kit right now (cue bot appearance in 3... 2... 1...). You're still very new to the hobby (I'm at the point where I'm kinda new), and you don't quite know what you like. I didn't think I'd care very much for longwave DXing and all that, and for the most part, the idea of having a "shack" doesn't appeal all that much to me, but I'm getting more and more interested in mobile HF. Just noodle around, talk to people, go to field days, etc.

I use the Code Red Signal 21-K and am happy with it. A little spendy, but it's water and dust resistant and has great sound in and out.

Check JVC SpiralDots too. They're amazingly comfortable. Sound great. Bit pricier tho.

Thanks a ton for the advise, I didn't even think about possible counterfeits on Amazon. Are the NA-771s from NAGOYA on Amazon also possible counterfeits or should they be fine? If there's a risk I can go with the BaoFeng but is almost twice as much (which also makes me wonder about a fake...).

I looked into the programming cables some more as well and will likely go with the more expensive one to avoid any hassle.

Thanks again!

Getting a better antenna is well worth it. I went from only having two or three miles range to having 15 with a better antenna. I got the two antennas listed below when I ordered my Baofeng.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C4ZBM38/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DTQ4A6M/

Yes, if he also gets the BNC adapter, I ended up getting the adapters for my Nagoya. much easier to change to another antenna like http://www.amazon.com/Original-Hypario-Antenna-baofeng-Sma-Female/dp/B00DTQ4A6M?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 with this http://www.amazon.com/2pcs-coaxial-coax-adapter-female/dp/B00CVQK466?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02 and this http://www.amazon.com/Valley-SMA-Male-BNC-Adapter/dp/B00AWELKJE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01

I would add this flexible antenna

And if you want a magmount, this.

I have the second one(ut-72), and the 771r which is retractable but not flexible. If you want to hold it on your belt, a flexible antenna is better.

Yes. MFJ makes a thing to make it easy https://www.amazon.com/MFJ-347-HAMSTICK-DIPOLE-MOUNT-HAMSTICKS/dp/B00KGHZ2FU . Others have said efficiency drops as you fall in frequency below 14MHz; this is a function of the mobile whip's relatively short length.

Something like this?

>BaoFeng BL-1 3.7V 1500mAh Battery Pack with USB Port Power Supply for BaoFeng BF-888S & Retevis H-777 Two-Way Radio Walkie Talkie Transceiver, Black

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JYJCNU2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZH66ybRHG1SY1

Or like this?

>BTECH USB Smart Charger (9-10.8V) Transformer Cable for BaoFeng, BTECH BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, UV-5R, UV-5X3 (CH-5, CH-8, etc. charger base compatible)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H2HN1KO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XI66ybDJN7TRX

OK, so I think I'll be keeping my rucking setup simple to keep Cadre happy. That being said, here's my hiking setup with a TH-D74 (or any HT) in case anyone comes along in the future. (In both cases below, I'm routing the external mic/speaker up to my shoulder.)

If you don't anticipate rain/wetness, just use an external radio pouch. I use this one mounted to the side of my GR1: 5.11 Radio Pouch

If you're looking for something more discreet (ask me about that one time walking by the White House with a small HT visibly hanging off my bag -- lasers in my face and lots of stern looks) or water resistant, I'm burying the HT deep inside the bag and using this to mount the antenna externally:

• MOLLE Antenna Relocation Mount
  
• SMA Male-to-Female Extension

Well at least you won't run into any rust on it, but i'm curious, what other issues does it give you?

On the antenna front, the firestik NGP setup just relies on the quarter-wavelength of coax to be the "ground plane", though it's really more of a counterpoise at that point. This would require the coax to be straight mostly and not coiled up, a challenge with the ~9 feet of coax it will take.

Another option is to get a 3/8th stub dipole mount and two firestiks or other CB whips. One to be the hot element, the other to be its counterpoise.

The sound of two doors opening at once was heard. Not from their vehicle, but the only other one in the parking lot. The sunglass wielding hikers with faces that must of been the most hardass hikers ever would begin walking towards them. One had two black dufflebags which they'd try to place in the trunk. If it was locked, he'd give it two taps.

The other had a thick, fat black suitcase. While the trunk thing was being worked on, suitcase man would gently tap on the glass of the passenger seat to get the attention of one or the other. He'd place the suitcase down on the ground next to the door before walking away without a word while removing his, 'I love Ashton' hat.

He'd get into their parked car along with his ally once they were done with the trunk.

--

Assuming Eve looked at the suitcase, they'd see there was a yellow note on it reading, 'Gift'. If the two were to open it, they'd find the following. Two AR500 Ballistic vest with one a bit smaller than the other, two smaller boxes with a surprise inside,
and lastly two more smaller packages. They'd have a pair of charge-able radios in one and a pair of ear pieces in the other. There'd be a noticeable lack of serial codes on everything...there were even two pairs of gloves. Particularly thick ones at that. If the two knew much on finger prints, such gloves would significantly lower one's fingerprint information on any given surface.

Lastly, a note was inside with the address to a warehouse with a printed picture of it. If they tried to track the printer that printed it at a later date, it wouldn't work as there was no hidden or 'invisible' serial code on the print out.

--
---
--

/u/Shimme

I think the flightaware dongles block everything that isn't 1090mhz.

You could try buying a nagoya antenna with a suitable sma cable which would be pretty good for public safety, ametuer, business, aircraft and broadcast fm. You could also get something like this where you can adjust the antenna for the target frequency.

If you get poor results try taping to antenna to the side of your apartment and run the coax through a window. That or put it on your balcony, (if you have one).

I really like the EASTSHINE S2 I picked up last week. Solid little charger with a great feature set and fairly inexpensive as well. Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4NS31O/

It's got quite a few other re-branded names as well, but it's all the same charger. Just pick whichever one is on sale at the time:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072R3197F/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07431LYTP/

Im running the Code Red Headsets Signal 20-K speakermic on my shoulder, where I have my Fox Listen only earpiece plugged into my Signal 20-K running across the front up to my other shoulder so I can hear through it and talk through the Signal 20-K. Whole system works great.

I just bought a USB cable that connects to a Baofeng UV-5R charging cradle, to charge a 'feng while out on the road. I'll let you know if I burn the woods down! I wanted to get a single radio with just a USB connection on the side, but this will work for now. Thanks!

https://www.amazon.com/USB-Transformer-Cable-BaoFeng-compatible/dp/B01H2HN1KO/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1491846801&sr=8-13&keywords=baofeng+extended+battery

I would recommend this one actually, it has more reviews and IMO a less sketchy label

ExpertPower Baofeng UV-5R Extended True Capacity Battery (Model: BL-5L, 3800 mAh, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ATTVKFQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_eeHDAbT348N72

Check out the Nagoya NA-771 antenna, its a direct screw on replacement. It will pick up weaker signals the standard antenna more clearly.

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ


If you're referring to transmitting with more power, the best option is to get a repeater. GMRS licensing allows up to 50 watts on a repeater.

My opinion, this is all you really need. My team made speaker mics the standard because they are cheap, effective and simple. The guys on my team who have been in the Army/Marines said this is how they used comms and it worked for them. Also My Radio is a BaoFeng Uv-5r. It's cheap and has never failed me.

BTech UV-5X3 + USB charging cable adapter.

I have two of the UV-5X3's, great little radios.

Nice setup. I'd suggest a whip antenna for that Baofeng radio, it makes a huge difference. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you plan on playing in larger outdoor fields that have a lot of changes in elevation, I'd suggest picking up a better antenna for the UV-5R. I personally use this antenna and have little issue talking over a couple of miles in hilly terrain. Also an extended battery makes the already long lasting UV-5R last a few days before needing to be recharged.

You could also use the top of the microwave as the counterpoise.

You could also take two Tram 1185 elements (which are available without the magnetic base on Amazon I see), plus a dipole mount (there are certainly cheaper options available) and have a full dipole going.

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-701C (Commercial Frequency Tuned) 8-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (155/455Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AX3AYOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_bb9PBbJ916DPC

Or

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-717 8.5-Inch Super Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XQAY7WI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9a9PBbJC50SVF

I recently got a Baofeng BF-F8HP. Its my first ham radio and it is serving me very well.

I also got the Nagoya NA-771 Antenna, and this programming cable.

The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual is the book I bought to study.

I am using CHIRP to program my BF-F8HP.

I am new to ham radio and I would like to get my license too.

I like the 5.11 radio pouch. It will fit lost radios and looks pretty low profile

https://www.amazon.com/5-11-Radio-Pouch-Compatible-Duffels/dp/B0019MM1NC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=5.11+radio&qid=1568955177&s=gateway&sr=8-1&utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf

I've used a couple of these for a few years now, and am happy with their performance... Less than $20.

Tram 140MHz-170MHz + 430MHz-470MHz Dual Band NMO Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDTJ2KE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kU7VCb0262D9F

my uv82 is programmed for 469.550mhz, if i get this nagoya 701c thats tuned for 155/455, would that affect my tx/rx? im trying to replace my stock antenna for better signal. does 155/455 mean just those two frequency or frequencies around them?

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BaoFeng/dp/B01AX3AYOK/ref=pd_rhf_sc_p_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=D6SBZ6PC67ZVTZRQ7612&th=1

I have had good luck with this Tram 703-HC. Absolutely no issue with stability of mag mount and antenna itself is sturdy.

Sweet I might try these out. These, right? https://www.amazon.com/VICTOR-JVC-EP-FX9M-B-Spiral-Earpiece/dp/B00JSLXNOC/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=34452FMC52YD4Q5VSTHZ

Part 2: Links and costs.

Note: I didn't realize the Aegis mini is half the capacity of the drag mini. As well as it only goes up to 80w. This still works for the single-triple mesh coils

Check list for internal battery mods:


The mods:


Drag mini $55: https://www.elementvape.com/voopoo-drag-mini-117w-tc-box-mod


Legend Mini $40 (half the battery life of the drag mini):


https://www.elementvape.com/geek-vape-aegis-mini-80w-tc-box-mod


Drag 1 $40:

https://www.elementvape.com/voopoo-drag-157w-tc-box-mod

Drag 2 (Very minor difference from Drag 1) $58:

https://www.elementvape.com/voopoo-drag-2-177w-tc-box-mod

Aegis Legend $54:


https://www.elementvape.com/geek-vape-aegis-legend-200w-tc-box-mod


The Tank $24:


https://www.elementvape.com/freemax-mesh-pro-sub-ohm-tank

The Replacement coils $12-14 for 3 coils:


https://www.elementvape.com/freemax-fireluke-mesh-pro-replacement-coils I recommend the single mesh at first. If you have extra money you might want to try the double mesh.

The Batteries $22 for 4:


https://liionwholesale.com/collections/batteries/products/lg-hg2-18650-battery-genuine-tested-20a-3000mah-flat-top-wholesale-discount?variant=15414707093598

You want 4 batteries because you always need two sets, the ones you're using and the ones you're charging.

The battery charger $19:

https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Charger-EASTSHINE-S2-Rechargeable/dp/B01N4NS31O


This should set you up. If you get an internal battery mod that's gonna run about $76-91 bucks not counting shipping or getting e juice.

If you get an external battery mod this will run about $115-130.

I realize now I misspoke about the price difference between Voopoo and Geekvape Mods. Just get whichever one looks best to you as they're all great. Anthony vapes also has a ton of mod reviews here if you want to compare mods.


Anyway this should have you set to go at the start. You'll need to get 18650 battery wraps in the future, but this is all you need to start.

TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002IP3WV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.IaKDbCBM2M2P

MIC / Microphone for 4 pin Cobra / Uniden CB Radio - Workman DM507-4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004T4180O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PKaKDb08KJJ5B


TruckSpec TSPSCBH-3CP Platinum Series 3-Pin Plug and 12-Volt Plug Fused Replacement CB Power Cord (3 Wire) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0169LNN7K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_sNaKDb6DG1TZB



This will get ya started. You can upgrade later if you enjoy it.

Yeah! I got these off of Amazon to replace the little round pieces that come with headsets.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N27TTDD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_EvpWBb82HH899

Certainly can get out the door for under $100. Here are two examples from Cobra alone. Here's one for $30, even. Factoring in installation by a pro, I'm not sure. I don't know what that would cost. It's incredibly easy to just do yourself, though, particularly if you're going with a cig lighter as your power source and a mag mount antenna.

That was my intro and I still use it all the time. Look into upgrading the antenna and you will be very pleased.

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_w7kmDbMCTQR9G

the stock antenna,

i'm planning to buy either this

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AA3MGRC7F9EI2&psc=1

or this, maybe both,

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AX3AYOK/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AA3MGRC7F9EI2

this, (including a large battery pack) might accomplish what i need it to.

For the UV-5R a Nagoya 771 as it is good and has the Female SMA that Boefengs require.

Be careful of counterfeits however. You should pay over 15-20 dollars for a real one.

Also this is good for the BF-F8HP as it has a maximum of 10 watts and the F8 puts out 8 watts.

https://smile.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=smi_www_rco2_go_smi_g1405964225?_encoding=UTF8&%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0&ie=UTF8

http://www.amazon.com/BaoFeng-BL-5-AA-Battery-BF-F8HP/dp/B00LAPTWE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457702513&sr=8-1&keywords=uv-5r+aa

Plus, I don't know about those Li-Ion batteries from China. If this is being stored in my car, I'd rather use primary Energizer lithiums or NiMh.

Yessss! I have finally decided on my things that I am going to get (when I will get these I will explain in a bit).

Radio - Baofeng UV-B6

Programming Cable - [Programming Cable for Baofeng UV-5R and UV-3R+ with Driver CD] (http://www.amazon.com/Programming-Cable-Baofeng-UV-5R-Driver/dp/B008RZJHJU/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_y)

Speaker/Mic - [Pofung BF-S112 Speaker mic] (http://www.amazon.com/Pofung-BF-S112-Two-Radio-Speaker/dp/B008RZ0EQ0/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_z)

Antenna - [Diamond Rh-770] (http://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Rh-770-144mhz-Antenna-Walkie-talkie/dp/B00GBWBAKU/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top)

Now, if my calculations are correct, all of this adds up to $47.20 (right now), and I do not have the moola for this right now, believe me. My Mom did hint at a possible Christmas present opportunity, so I am definitely not spending the money on this. I will send my Mom these links very soon.

Edit: Formatting

Edit 2: Never mind about that one thing... *click*

https://www.amazon.com/Retevis-Handheld-Speaker-Baofeng-KENWOOD/dp/B00JGNGQTQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1484951026&sr=8-3&keywords=handheld+speaker+mic

Disclaimer: I haven't tried myself, so I don't know if this would work without additional equipment.

The two pins are 3.5mm and 2.5mm. The 3.5mm is for the speakers and the 2.5mm is for the mic. With a 2.5mm female to 3.5mm male adapter/cable, you might be able to use any speaker microphone with the same pin setup as your mic. I'm not sure if it would always be on or if pressing the talk button would work. It's something I'm considering trying myself just for fun.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BYMKKT4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1396099175&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40

I made the job easier for you

It seems that your comment contains 1 or more links that are hard to tap for mobile users.
I will extend those so they're easier for our sausage fingers to click!


Here is link number 1 - Previous text "PTT"



----
^Please ^PM ^/u/eganwall ^with ^issues ^or ^feedback! ^| ^Delete

https://www.amazon.com/Midland-AVPH3-Transparent-Security-Headsets/dp/B000CNAEEW

Like these.

Something like this runs anywhere from $40-$100 depending on quality. We used Push To Talk radios, so they wouldn't turn on from the bike noise. Some of the guys we ride with use these headsets

Molded Earpeice for Walkie Talkie Headsets like this

I have an extra programming cable for that radio that you can HAVE. In fact, I have an extra UV-82X that you can have if you promise to pay it forward later when you upgrade. It is 2m/1.25m, not 2m/440. But it's yours if you want it. Find me on QRZ and send me a message and I will mail it to you.

I use a Nagoya 771 with my Baofengs. It makes a big difference.

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BaoFeng/dp/B00KC4PWQQ

Yep. Nagoya 771.

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ezTYDb743RPVG

That one is for ICOM radios, won't fit a Kenwood/Baofeng.

Here is the Kenwood model:

https://smile.amazon.com/Z-TAC-Tactical-Headphone-Headset-Military/dp/B01LX1ZAK0/

and the same one from another seller:

https://smile.amazon.com/WishRing-Z-tactical-Military-Adapter-Version/dp/B011OE8X6S/

Be sure to check the one-star reviews on both listings! One review on the second listing has a tip to make the adapter work with Baofengs. Apparently the pins don't go in far enough and you have to file away some plastic on the adapter to let them go in farther.

Would you suggest any surveillance style earpiece? Like the clear tubing and the external mic? I want one for a midland radio, but everyone says the one that is recommended on amazon is crap.

Get the Nagoya NA-771, a dual-band 70cm/2m whip antenna which will greatly increase your transmit once you are licensed:
http://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BaoFeng/dp/B00KC4PWQQ

Check out RepeaterBook.com and add in all your local first responders (police, fire, etc.). You can add in a ton of other things to monitor as well that CHIRP has available, like the weather channels, FRS, GMRS, Marine bands, etc. While you cannot legally transmit on any of them (this radio isn't certified for those bands), if it were a life or death situation, you can use a local repeater, FRS, GMRS, or Marine band to call for assistance, and you can monitor them as well to provide assistance.

Anything sold by BaoFeng Tech on Amazon is genuine.

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for AnyTone, BaoFeng, and Yaesu https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/

I bought this upgraded battery charger from Amazon for less than 10$ during a sale. I've noticed that my batteries seem to last longer vs when I was using the included charger.

I have one of these. https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1517706255&sr=1-3&keywords=na771

I also have a 19 inch copper wire with a ring terminal on one end attached to one of the screws that holds the belt clip on. Full wave length. sort of. Works great though.

To answer your spintfit vs spiral dot questions, I just went back and forth with both and between those I would say I prefer the spiral dots. I got these ones in medium.

However, I still much prefer foam tips over both. The foam is not only more comfortable to me, but I also think it really controls and softens the treble more than both of those. With those other tips if I listen to particularly bright track or a sibilant prone track, it can still sound a little too harsh and sibilant. But with foam tips I don't hear that at all. I am now doing an A/B test using my switch with Andromedas and I can EQ the ZS6 to sound really really close.

Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8NRlDbBZFA4ZW

I bought this one. It is genuine if bought from Baofeng Tech.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ

NA771 is for sale right now for $12
There will be Baofeng UV5R and UV82 on sale later

Is this what you're talking about?

http://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-3800mAh-Battery-UV-5R-1-UV-5R-2/dp/B00ATTVKFQ

Would this work for what I need?

I ended up returning my PBPs but these are the ones I tried...


VICTOR JVC EP-FX9M-B Spiral Dot Earpiece (Size M / 6 pcs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JSLXNOC

Code Red website

Amazon

> NA-771

This one is the real deal
https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ?keywords=NA-771&qid=1540780225&sr=8-3&ref=sr_1_3

https://www.amazon.com/HDE-Replacement-Earpiece-Insert-Acoustic/dp/B01N27TTDD/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1541298757&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=earpiece+for+law+enforcement&dpPl=1&dpID=41FuQ-kGGhL&ref=plSrch

I put this piece on that set and never had an issue.

That, or this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H2HN1KO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_SIC5CbC7YY3ZJ

The manual doesn't mention anything about CTCSS or DCS. I'm using an external antenna similar to this one: https://www.amazon.com/TRAM-703-HC-Center-Load-Antenna/dp/B002IP3WV4 (mine looks a bit taller). I wanted to rule-out the scanner being too old to receive APRS packets since it's analog.

Also I highly suggest upgrading the antenna to either the Nagoya 8", or 15" antenna and a relocator cable.

8" antenna
Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-701 8-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KBZLOHC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_n-ABCbED2D68M

15.6" antenna
Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-771 15.6-Inch Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_f9ABCb8JQJ3EQ

Relocator cable
YOTENKO 6.5ft Extensional Cable SMA Male to SMA Female Coax Adapter WiFi FPV Antenna Connector SMA Extension Cable RG174 2M https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0744FZ93R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_O8ABCbT4RTSTM

UV5R uses the Kenwood style connector. You can get a speaker mic that has a 3.5mm output. When you plug a headset into it the built in speaker turns off.

These already exist?

I just purchased this radio and this antenna for my car.

Do I need anything else? I intend on ordering the cable, CD, and chirp soon.

Any people here in the SoCal/San Diego area?

Do not do this. The charger you're looking at is for the extended battery for the uv5r. Look up the extended battery and you will see a charge port on the side.

http://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-3800mAh-Battery-UV-5R-1-UV-5R-2/dp/B00ATTVKFQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380645152&sr=8-1&keywords=uv5r+extended+battery

Alternatively... https://smile.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1

17$ delivered to your door.

Use a handset with a headphone jack?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008RZ0EQ0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

this one.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC4PWQQ/ is where i got mine

These are two different items connected by standard molle strap system

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KN66QRQ/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019MM1NC/

I put some foam in the top and bottom of the big case, and cut a slit down the smaller case to allow the sticks to stick out. The pouch in the front is big enough for the charger. It could, perhaps, fit a spare battery or 2 instead.

Would post more pictures but imgur is being weird.

It's a cheap mag mount

This one > https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DTQ4A6M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Can't speak for IMS, as I've never been there, sadly. But I can hear them all the way around Phoenix.

The stock antenna is useless. It might as well be a 50 ohm resistor soldered to an SMA connector. I use a Nagoya 771.

You are way out of touch with the state of FRS/GMRS radios. If you only get 100ft range and 40min battery life, you need new batteries or your radios are broken. Nearly every FRS/GMRS handheld out there is small enough to fit in a jersey pouch.

You can get a pair of vox-capable headsets for $20.

> I have made a 12 mile contact though the forest.

Yeah, what antenna you using?

Cause I head out to the forest all the time (I'm in Oregon), and I own all 3 of these and I just did another series of radio testing this week.

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-NA-771-15-6-Inch-SMA-Female-BTECH/dp/B00KC4PWQQ/

https://www.amazon.com/HYS-Tactical-Foldable-SMA-Female-Connector/dp/B07NN5XTB8/

https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-Genuine-Nagoya-UT-72-Magnetic/dp/B016SIJX28/

They're all kinda dog shit unless you tone down the unrealistic expectations from online forums.

I have never measured SWR. Is trim used literally? As in cut the antenna?If it matters, here is the antenna I have: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IDTJ2KE/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Get one of the Baofeng speaker mics. They come with a normal headphone socket so you can stick a decent pair of heaphones in them. The earpieces you tend to get for these things are absolute crap.

http://www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-Speaker-MIC-UV-5R-5REPLUS/dp/B00BYMKKT4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408659661&sr=8-1&keywords=baofeng+speaker+mic

Saw post on the other sub. Thought you would be here. This one is the one everyone seems to go with. Short of a hard mount and an adapter. There are fakes so be sure to get the real one. Be aware the comments cover all the antennas listed.