Best HF Ham Radio for Off Grid Survival

Choosing the best HF Ham Radio for off grid survival communications. In this video we go through 5 of the best low-power and QRP portable ham radios for off grid or grid down preparedness communications.
Hello Operators.
After the devastating earthquake and grid failure in Turkey and Syria, a Turkish operator reached out on Twitter, asking about the best HF radio for grid down or off grid survival. I do my best to highlight the pros and cons of my top HF radio picks, seen on the channel.
73
Julian oh8stn
#oh8stn #hamradio
Video URL: • Best HF Ham Radio for ...
Accompanying blog: oh8stn.org/blo...
Mentioned in the video
XIegu G90: • Xiegu G90 HF SDR Trans...
Xiegu X6100: • Xiegu X6100 SSB with a...
Yaesu FT-818: • Yaesu FT-818 Review
Lab599 TX500: • Lab599 Discovery TX-50...
Icom IC-705: • Icom IC-705 | Portable...
Microsoft Surface: • Ham Radio with Microso...
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[@OH8STN]

Some of you have asked for a blog with structured context, Well here it is. oh8stn.org/blog/2023/02/17/best-hf-ham-radio-for-grid-down-survival/ Thanks for watching. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@ERICtheLATE]

Hey, the surprise core of the upload of looking out for best setup for a fellow ham needing suggestions for the ideal setup for comms near the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey was a real reality check on the true relevence of your craft as a ham that focuses on emergency, efficient, lightweight, max endurance and versatility, comms, voice and data, as your chosen thrill and focus of the hobby, makes it your chosen duty. Really great channel, sir. 👍

[@adventuretarian8191]

0 99.99

[@cabonlux5344]

Thanks, you really know your stuff.

[@adventuretarian8191]

I have no idea why I had that comment written under my name. I love your videos either way.

[@johnkaelberer237]

Excellent video and content. No one manufacturer makes the perfect off grid radio. Yaesu take note, here is your place to shine in replacing the 818. All great points made, especially when it comes to power management. I'm a little longer in the tooth and do not have the ability to travel as far as some others. With this in mind, I have two kits. One with the G-90 and a second that requires more power, the Yaesu 891. A Yaesu FT-3D goes along for the ride either way. Both have battery's and solar (both properly sized) that go along with power needs and both have separate digital accessories. The tuner in the G-90 can be a real asset if something happens to your resonate antenna and you need to cobble up something, so there is that. It's what I'm used to and I practice often with both. Were I to upgrade, the 599 would be where I would go. Tough as nails and waterproof, I just can't justify spending additional money for a more expensive radio, but it would be nice...lol. Thanks for the video and Thank You for not being a Radio Pimp, like some of the "Popular Channels". They no longer get views from me.

[@bradhansen4312]

Hey John, nice comment! I also have two kits very similar to yours, X6100 and FT-891. Very functional. Do you think we could talk Julian into a short, detailed video on setting up the FT-891 with Digirig and RPi? Maybe you already have yours set-up but I could use a little help in that department. W9BLH

[@XenLin]

Mighty old 857D?

[@ITILII]

Have to love the Lab599 TX 500....dual use and rugged enough to use as a true force multiplier ☺

[@dougdaniels]

Nice comparisons, and excellent presentation. I'm happy with my KX2 filling this role. I got it primarily as a SOTA rig.

[@OH8STN]

I believe the kx2 is going to be even better when they get that internal charger sorted. It's on the way. Thanks for the comment and the kindness.

[@GordonHudson]

I have a TX500. You can't underestimate its small. I mount it in the car like the head unit of a bigger radio. The current drain is genuinely tiny. It works over a range of voltages. Some Yaesu radios shut down if the voltage drops too low. The TX500 works down to 9v. This would make it easier to make up a battery in a hurry from dry cells or other batteries.

[@VE9ASN]

I love my 705, it is truly great. But, if yaesu is paying attention, a 20watt version with built in tuner would sell faster than they could make them!

[@OH8STN]

Agreed

[@lavenderlilacproductions]

Yaesu seems to have given up, which is sad to see. My Early oughts VX7 and 817 have served well, but not much interesting these days. (Or maybe our context as preparedness types isn't a market share they're interested in.)

[@AG4KN]

Great info Julian! I liked the pros and cons of each radio mentioned. Radio Prepper Gil usually leans to "De-MIL" radios (which I enjoy watching as well), so if one had to compare MIL or EX-MIL radios in the same context as survival radios, one should know that Green Radios tend to run on 24 vdc, are power hungry and inefficient... they are robust for the most part. 73s, AG4KN - John in OK WINLINK WEDNESDAY!!

[@jplacido9999]

What about the HARRIS FALCON III MIL Manpack radio?

[@raithjames860]

Julian. Thanks for the clarification. I picked up the IC-705 based on your recommendation and I haven't looked back since. Just waiting for the lightsaver max to become available again and I am hoping they include a usb C with a PD port. That way I can use my USB C power delivery trigger board to output 5, 9, 12, 15, and 20 volts up to 100watts making this device even more adaptable power supply. I could even run my 9v elecraft T1 tuner off it if 9v batteries become difficult to source. If you are talking with them, let them know this is essential. Lastly, I just picked up one of the last FT-818's for a bash around pota rig when not doing digital for nostalgic reasons. Keep up the great work, you are our pioneer for off grid practical communications. Thank you.

[@N0LSD]

As always, excellent presentation. One simply cannot over state the need for reliable communications when disasters and emergency situations arise; and while there are many videos on KZbin regarding service-based emergency communications, your focus on communications for emergency preparedness is a thoughtful counterpoint to all that. My personal take is that many in the Amateur EmComm community make the assumption that when disasters or emergencies occur, that somehow that's not going to effect *them* --which will allow them the space to participate in functions such as ARES. I think it's far more practical to start with *personal* preparedness and communications training - which will be far more likely to be one's immediate requirement in an emergency or disaster.

[@OH8STN]

This could not have been said any better! Outstanding comment. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@vironpayne3405]

That is exactly what Julian is the king of, personal preparedness.

[@jeffcooper9363]

Spot on. Thank you

[@ibuildsheds5654]

705 with surface and CHA LEFS

[@neiltolman3182]

The “best” radio is the radio that you have that you know how to operate that functions in the situation. Thank you for keeping this discussion in the for-front!

[@jethro9341]

That doesn't really help someone that doesn't have a mobile radio and is here to help decide what to get.

[@CW-le8wc]

FWIW, the Elecraft KX3 is a viable, albeit expensive, option. I've had mine for nearly 10 years and have made 1000s of contacts both SSB and digital. It also has options for an ATU and 2M module. Both HF and 2m have their own antenna connections. The great thing about the KX3 is that it's extensible with not only the two modules I just mentioned, but also has available roofing filters, internal battery compartment for rechargeable AAs, a very versatile pan adapter, and amplifiers. The TX and RX audio quality are excellent and interfacing for digitals modes is pretty straight forward. I've often thought about purchasing an IC-705, but just haven't pulled the trigger because the KX3 does everything I need for portable operating.

[@OH8STN]

Preaching to the choir brother. I Love The KX3. The only reason it's not here is I don't have one. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@halledwardb]

Gave a new 705 to the 11 and 15 yr daughters for remote ops. Qrp can be tough, its not the transmitter, its the other stations dealing with their noise floors, wall warts, TV, led lights etc. After the Chinese ballon EMPs things it should be quiet again. Depends on what you need. Sure wish the PA500 amps were really avaliable.

[@kb9lxh]

How about an "old" Yaesu FT-897D with both internal AC as well as dual DC battery packs (including the proper charging equipment) along with a 300 Watt solar generator and 100 Watt solar panel?

[@KOAOutdoors]

Great content Julian ! OK Yeasu...show us whatcha got next. Semper Fi brother ! W9KOA

[@tonyd6884]

Thanks for the video! You’re a huge asset to the hobby. It really is tough to pick the perfect rig. I am hopeful that yaesu is go into blow us away with a 818/857 style radio.

[@OH8STN]

Thanks Wishing Yeasu would bring back the 897 form factor, in a 20 watt field radio with 705 features. I would kill for that radio. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@kb9lxh]

My sentiment exactly. As the owner of an FT-897D with the FC-30 ATU, I have both the slide in power supply for 100W as well as the battery backup option for 20W. Keeping an off-grid option, I also have a Jackery 290 solar generator along with 25W and 100W solar panels. For a smaller and cost effect option to the IC-705, I would give serious consideration to the Xiegu 6100. Your thoughts?

[@VA7LFD]

Amazing comparison video. I have narrowed it down to the TX500 & 705. I already have a nice mare for the back trails would love to do HF remote from a mountain top with my horse at my side. That would be on my bucket list. Again great video. 73s from Vancouver BC

[@RadioPrepper]

Excellent! I couldn't have said it any better 🙂 Unfortunately I was dumb enough to sell my KX2. It's a top performer but has a lot of ingress points for the elements. A radio that surprised me, in a good way, is the (tr)uSDX (from a manufacturer approved by DL2MAN). I was very suspicious of it but I was wrong. Maybe not as a main radio but small and light for a bug-out bag. I am really enjoying my G90 right now, but as you mention, a bit hungry and heavy. If only more people used 6m! Great for the countryside with a bit more penetration (vegetation) than 2m and 70cm. As to the FT-817nd/818, I might still buy one some day, if just for the VHF SSB/CW modes; hard to beat still today, and so many have been sold that we don't have to worry about second-hand supply. Take care 🙂

[@davidwilson4808]

Wonderful presentation. I have a G90 and 991, both with batteries sufficient to run them. The significant down side to the G90 is the external data hardware, however not necessarily needed. Also the poor cleanliness on transmit, which may have been fixed with a software update (have not looked). The 991 I have been happy with. Not the best for receive current, still very reasonable if you can handle the higher current load.

[@beemcbike]

Great comparison. For me it’s the G90 and a Anytone 878 and a digirig. When money matters, this does the job very well. The only downside for me, that there is no Bluetooth it’s just down to cables… Thanks Julian for your great work 73 HB3XBL 👍🇨🇭

[@o2bnov0307]

I had discounted the x6100 as a long-term radio. I liked your comment that the x6100 is truly a shack in a box. While the rig is under warranty no trouble. I have seen units come up for sale after their warranty had expired. Likely not a thing wrong with the radio, but concerns surrounding the inability to get this company's radios serviced. Is this a concern that is warranted? Is it an urban legend that I should toss in the trash can?

[@Littrell1966]

I know you have been working on your video quality but I like that you don't need big screen looks, because you have great content!! Keep up the great videos!!

[@OH8STN]

Best comment of the day 🙏

[@rkaag99]

Well done. My emergency solution was not a 1 radio be all end all. it developed into a system. I have (In the US) a GMRS for family comms; an FT-857d for when I need to get out; and finally a X6100 for an NVIS regional touch point. As you stated, there is no one size fits all. Great video my friend!!!

[@OH8STN]

Excellent comment and I couldn't agree more. Thanks for watching and commenting. Also for the support over the years. Always good to read your comments.

[@thuff3207]

For survival coms, you make very good points, and to communicate, digital coms get more information through than other modes. For a discussion of what digital coms to use and the intended purpose is very important. The radio is, in some ways, secondary. In most disastors the area effective is typically quite small with the exception of war and there, I just do not know. To support digital modes we need a gateway to get messages to loved ones and emergancy help. APRS with Packet and VARA FM digipeaters get email and Text messages to your loved ones and others. We have data on this working in hurricanes. This works well with VHF, but HF you have Winlink email but I do not know about a text message gateway. That would be a good discussion. I like the idea of a discussion and agree a plan secifically for you is useful.

[@mz5376]

I just found you. I'm pleased. I'm a female alone, but I'm okay with it. I'm learning. Appreciate you

[@tom_olofsson]

All these years of great videos and you still keep it fresh. Thanks for this terrific breakdown.

[@vkradio1656]

Totally agree, Julian is fantastic!😎😎

[@sockeatinggolden8316]

G90. Great tuner. 20w that will reach anyone. Easy digital ops with a Digirig. Continues to run even below 12v.

[@mr.l3785]

I agree that 20w will reach anyone. I was in Long Range Surveillance (LRS), 20 watts was the max power I had with the PRC-104 and was more than enough to establish distant comms.

[@jamesschmaus8597]

I run a g90 and frankly I'm suprised every time it actually turns on, I'm just waiting for it to die. It is a full featured radio and priced right.

[@neosentry]

I just wish the G90 did 2M and 70CM.. am playing with the G900 now as an alternative because of the integrated sound-card and 20W capability.

[@FunInSC]

@@neosentry G900? That thing has changed names and brands like 5 times now. HS-2, QR something or another. Serious hardware and firmware issues that have been there forever. It promises A LOT but reality is another thing. If it's that radio, run away and get a refund ASAP! I worked with the vendor on that radio trying all kinds of firmware versions because of all of the issues and gave up after a year because the radio itself has some design flaws which firmware is just not going to fix.

[@neosentry]

@@FunInSC so.. Guohetec released the Gen3 version of the radio, which seems to have addressed the voltage stability and receiver sensitivity issues. They are still selling it under a half dozen names.. but that may come to an end soon. I think Radioddity now has a version of, and there are a few other flavors of it.. but the non-branded Q900 is fine for me. I've been impressed with the improvements they've cooked into the thing, it's a much better unit than its predecessor models.. and it offers a 2m/70cm + DMR advantage over the G90 (though I don't really care for the DMR element).. but.. ultimately.. I'm going to need to live with it for a while longer to see just how much I like it and whether or not I can learn to love its quirks (and it does have a few). Version 3.1.4 of the firmware was a big improvement, and version 3.2.2 and the coming 4.0 releases promise even more gains. This is a fun hobby.

[@karlmadsen3179]

I have a FT-818ND. I know nothing about digital modes, and really don't know where to start to learn what I need to. I have one of the unobtainium filters installed.....SSB, not CW. I have portable power with solar charging and a power management module. I need to build some small, rugged, resonant antennas. I have so much to learn.

[@OH8STN]

You're way ahead of many of us.

[@edwinpd0sot503]

You nailed it, i will not wait for anyone/government to come and fix everything. Even in a dire situation one square meter operation space and some room for the wire should do the trick. Great video. The fact that you can run js8call /wsjtx native on the x6100 radio is a omission in the video 😊. The antenna situation is spot on, resonance or tuned. Thank you for good video. . . "Clusterbugger" is a great nickname 😂

[@larryjanson4011]

sad for a lot of us out here in real life. most radios are just to costly. yes one gets what one pays for. cheap is just crap. but some of us have to buy food pay rent/a mortgage. hiking to a remote spot is out of the question. mobil. at $5.00+ a gallon is getting costly.. pg&e just raised the power rates... again. they got sued and need to charge more so as to not cut into there profits. over a couple decades i own 4 radios ft8. a ft 828 ft 897, and a ic7300. three are now dinos but work great for my needs. limited antennas. no towers yet. over priced. and sad for me i live in a valley.

[@OH8STN]

Sadly, we all have different real-life issues to deal with. With the exception of my sister come most of my people escaped California for Texas.

[@hamradiobasics]

Julian excellent presentation regarding off grid radios. I like that you set parameters for the video - what works for one person may not work for another person. It all depends on the situation and place they find themselves in. All the radios mentioned are viable options although the Yaesu FT-818 is going to be discontinued. For me it would be the ICOM IC-705. It really does it all and it has it's own built in battery that is easily available. The only negative or downside in the IC-705 is that it needs a tuner but there are many cost efficient options that are available. I would love to get a Elecraft KX3 but it is pricey and from what I understand a several month wait to get one after you order it. Keep up the great work ! 73's Bill de KW4QO

[@TalonsNewAdventures]

Your points about the IC-705 are exactly why I am looking at it for my first HF rig. You have confirmed for me the preparedness mindset I am using to choose this radio. The next HF would be a more powerful home base station. Thanks for this video!

[@OH8STN]

This means a lot. Thanks for watching and commenting. Much appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@SteveBerwick]

This is what I did. First HF radio I ever bought was the 705. So far I'm loving it. Not sure if the conditions are better than usual, but unless there is a pile-up, everyone has been able to hear me on 5 watts in the backyard with a speaker wire dipole. Already made a 1000mile contact from my backyard to western Oklahoma. I've also reached people on POTA activations several states away who were also running QRP. If you have a compromised antenna, then a 100w station might be necessary, but with a full 20m dipole hung in my tree, I've been very successful.

[@Blastogy]

This was my first HF. It was frustrating at first because I couldn’t reach anyone. Then after some experiments I was able to get it to hum like a bird. IC-705..... 10/10 best all purpose radio!

[@TalonsNewAdventures]

@@Blastogy I have to agree that I had a few challenges getting it to work well. Now that I have a permanent antenna, it’s definitely easier. I’m now trying to get my Pi 3 to talk nicely with it and have yet to get HF functions to work, or at least transmit a carrier. Activates the PTT no problem. But I’m in no rush to get it working as this is a journey, not a race.

[@SteveBerwick]

@@TalonsNewAdventures Switch your MOD Input to WLAN. If it key's up but nothing is being sent, you are still probably set to MIC,USB.

[@2901nc]

You are invaluable. I appreciate you more than I can express. A Newbie

[@OH8STN]

🙏 73 Julian oh8stn

[@DonzLockz]

Another top video Julian. I keep changing my mind but at the moment on my budget, I'm looking at the 6100 with my Surface Go, mainly for digital modes. I have two surface Go's, one with windows and one with Linux Mint, Debian Edition, I'd probably use Linux as it's not a resource hog like Windows. As you said, a small portable amp and maybe with a 5ah to 10ah battery and a small solar set-up. I have an 80-10m EFHW and that will get me going. I'm only allowed QRP but will upgrade within 6mnths max. For my QTH, I'm flavouring the 991A. Keep up the great work in the extreme cold and remote location video's. I think that manufacturers should consult with you when they want to create an all purpose field comms rig. Take care. 73

[@ratbagley]

I don't know how I got here but that was fascinating. Mostly just a two meter guy but trolling the HF stuff.

[@kn6eze]

It's easy to downplay the role of a tuner, but from experience, if your antenna has an issue, you have limited space for an antenna, you need to use a field expedient antenna, etc., the tuner quickly changes from a nice-to-have to a hard requirement. The 20 watts, waterfall, low power consumption, are all great features. I've run the G90 almost daily for going on 3 years, plus many hours of wilderness field time, and it's still going strong 💪🏼

[@OH8STN]

Well said! 73 Julian oh8stn

[@piotrszawerna4021]

Hey, you are doing great job :) And what about Yaesu ft-857d? It can be very efficient in the battery mode, it has dsp and optionall filters for ssb and cw. Still small and rugged. All mods all bands like 817/818 :)

[@OH8STN]

Although the 857 is an excellent performer, I omitted rigs with high current consumption on RX and inefficient TX current draw. In their place, the suggestion was using a more energy efficient rig, with additional amplifier. The idea is is the more current a rig needs, the larger the battery it requires. This makes the system larger, heavier, and likely to be left behind. Does this make sense? Just trying to think outside the box. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@milcommguy5927]

The 857D is the way to go, I agree 100%, I would never part with mine.

[@drnv150]

Great video👍 My primary radio's are all HF, I have a few 50 watt VHF/UHF Mobiles for local comms but other than the usual MARS/ARES/RACES/SATERN ham volunteer emergency comm. groups, I really am not too confident in the basic comm. Skills, of many with a ham license, most can't figure out how to pause in between transmissions much less care about the patience to deal with a directed net. A small percentage want to drone on and on until the repeaters time out and are always surprised that 3 to 5 minutes with hardly a breath, the machine cut them off...lol Thanks for all the awesome info 👍

[@jpbrown1963]

Have yeasu ft-857 icon ic-706mkii

[@OH8STN]

Both excellent rigs. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@ralphnunn3]

'Cluster Bugger...' LOL. Good stuff, as always, Julian. A couple of comments. 1) The Xiegu G90 has served me well so far, when I'm operating portable. I pair that with a 6ah LiFePo battery, and either my PAC-12 vertical, or the SOTABeams Bandhopper+ antenna, and my wife and I can operate for hours. 2) This is more of a question. I noticed that you didn't have your Yaesu FT-891 on your list of rigs to suggest. I'm guessing that's for a couple of reasons: it's heavy, and power-hungry, and your statement about 20-30 watts ERP being more than enough. Any other reason? DE K7RLN

[@tylerdurden2644]

Best rig is one you fully understand. Along with that the ability and know how to improvise antennas and power. I bet most hams kitted out with all the best gear will fail when things go sideways.

[@OH8STN]

Although true, do we want to create a moving target, or tackle each topic one at a time? Gear choices, training, ... Operators trying to find "the radio" want examples of pros, cons and effectiveness of the system versus pragmatic requirements. If someone doesn't train with the gear, they will inevitably fail. Hopefully. we can motivate them to train hard and often. Thanks for the comment. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@tylerdurden2644]

@@OH8STN Julian your the only one doing this with common sense. Don't take my comment the wrong way. Keep going!

[@micklaws5520]

Thank you much for this presentation. Much needed and clarifies a lot of questions I had.

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@AbenteuerSchottland]

Love it - great videos, great information. Thank you & good luck 👍🏼🙏🙂

[@Stealthmodeactivated-h8w]

Baofeng or any chineesy radio on tick tok always the best coz tick tock said so

[@OH8STN]

Yeah, these "baofeng experts" aren't actually helping :/

[@pauls8456]

I have had a couple of IC705’s they are fantastic but they are electrically and physically fragile as well as expensive. Because they are expensive and chunky you have to use larger cases to protect your investment. The now humble FT817 wins in this regard especially if you need VHF/UHF for portable work or as a transverter driver for higher bands.

[@OH8STN]

Fragility is a great point, but I wouldn't agree with electrically fragile. The display certainly is. I use the Peovi frame and polycarbonate display cover to protect my 705. The radio then goes in a soft bag. The 81x was a good radii in terms of size. All the additional gear required to keep it going, makes a much better package. Slow battery charge, hard to read display, poor rx all hinder its field performance compared to the modern options. Here's my FT818 review kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5OkZYtqa52cprs

[@pauls8456]

@@OH8STN an arc in a nearby amplifier did put the 705 into permanent TX requiring repair though other radios may well have had the same fault. Mine also refused to accept 12V - another repair that was ‘loose connection on 12V connector’. Just goes to show that all radios have a failure rate, likely pretty low with Japanese gear though.

[@elsuperpollo2273]

I plan on focusing more on HF, especially QRP and CW portable on the go, as I am still new at this. I'm still trying to get used used to having a call sign and I'm trying to memorizing my call sign. KQ4HCU 73

[@OH8STN]

Welcome to the community. This is an old video, but it might help. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpewZXaDiNdjiq8

[@elsuperpollo2273]

Thank you 73

[@ryanjones9305]

The trouble you run into if you’re looking for military grade, rugged man pack radio gear is you’re having to shoehorn equipment made for far less extreme environments of the amateur radio world into what basically equates to a tactical life. It can be done provided you understand that even the most rugged of gear made for the amateur world is expected to go to the park for an activation or a backpacking trip at worst and you take the proper precautions while you do it. Knowing the limitations of your gear is just as important as knowing it’s capabilities. We have a setup here that works for us that utilizes some of the gear listed here, but you need to think long and hard about what you’re trying to do and plan accordingly. Also be willing to change your mind for the betterment of the system. Sometimes the lightest gear isn’t the best for your setup. Sometimes the smallest gear isn’t the best for your operation. Expect to make changes.

[@cooloftheevening]

I firmly believe that it is for a reason that no one will make military grade radios that can take a beating in the elements. And I'm not even referring to security features or aes etc. It's 2024 and there's no truly rugged and portable HF radio to be found on the market for civilians?

[@sbrownproductions]

Such a tough decision... I want 2M SSB.... which limits me to IC-705 (fragile) or FT-81x (hard to find, OLD, replacement parts?) OR getting a larger "car rig" for 2M SSB... I have the G90 right now and honestly love it. For the price, the feature set is impressive. But I am leaning more towards the TX-500 just for the sheer ruggedness and just ignoring 2M SSB.... If only Icom, Kenwood, or Yaesu would make a slightly more rugged 5-15watt all mode, all band radio for < $1500 I'd be happy as a clam!

[@ericblair3009]

I can't believe I missed this when it came out....... GREAT content! THX for all you do for your viewers

[@felixdacat6572]

Allway an insightful and educational experience for me watching ur vids....been a fan for years and got my GMRS and working on my HAM ticket, and the confidence to step up as an Ecomms lead for my local CERT group.because of ur vids....Never doubt ur benefit and contributions to the community....Thank you Sir.

[@arizonacactus4991]

Best information I found. I'm 64 and just getting into the Ham scene. Actually I don't even have the license from the FCC yet. Just passed the Tech exam rather easily. I don't want a ham shack base station, not interested in contesting nor playing the other games. Off grid comms is my only interest. Truthfully not interested in wifi, internet, 5G+, or any other mesh technology baloney. Please do a segment on EMP protection for your ham bugout bag. Thanks. Oh, one more thing...heat. It's 106 here in Az as I type. The equipment was analyzed in cold weather.

[@beowolfso.6096]

Thank you for the informative video. If you don't mind, I need your advice on the following scenario. I have a Chameleon telescopic antenna which can be tuned by raising or lowering its sections. When in 10m, with the antenna fully extended the signals come in strong but with high SWR (3.0-3.8). A tuner will remedy that but at the cost of loosing power. My other option is to tune the antenna itself. If I decrease its length by 6-8 ft, the SWR can be brought down to 1.12-1.14. A tuner is no longer necessary. However this comes at the expense of diminished RX. What configuration is best when using a QRP radio? Thank you.

[@mlhogan1]

Thank you. I have been considering a 705, this helps. Im currently running a kx3 and signalink, awaiting a digirig and will this winter flush out a full mobipe hf/vhf setup for off grid data and voice. I just found your channel in a hf winlink search so im enjoying the content.

[@milwman1958]

I'm going to make up a Light backpack kit. Ordered the FX-4CR and have a 15 AH LiFePO4 and wire's. Scott KF0HRF

[@ERICtheLATE]

I really like the g1m. The new Xiegu is a beefed up version, more bands, tougher mic plug, less pointy knobs, has the bandscope, and still very light. It will need external antenna swr/matching device, but a good ol' crossneedle tuner can be found online or a hamfest.

[@vonzigle]

Thanks!

[@dancosminmarza2974]

happy that yaesu is in the list operation in the end it depends on many factors what budget you have experence and the tipe of disaster usualy simple is beter or to have difrent cenarios in mind ft 891 tuner fc 50 batery antenna , ft891 batery and atas antenna cand not do frequency under 7 mhz cand do 7 mhz to 430 mhz fast to set up ,891 vih vl1000 sistem antenna mas mounted on the vehicle 8000w inverter batery sistem second radio ftm 6000 covering 2m 70 cm and the rest with separat antenna ,big sistem needs a vehicle preferably a 4x4 you need time to diploy about 2 h prous selter masiv power able to vork continental conections mobile 4 a good spot and safe

[@robert8342-w7x]

I wonder why the FT-891 didn't make the list

[@OH8STN]

The 891 has high current consumption on RX and inefficient TX even at low ouput power. Because of this, it requires a more substantial battery capacity. Since we want a radio which won't get left behind with all the other gear we may need to carry, a smaller more energy efficient radio seems like a better bet. You can find more on this topic in the episode notes. oh8stn.org/blog/2023/02/17/best-hf-ham-radio-for-grid-down-survival/ 73 Julian oh8stn

[@HK-qj4im]

An interesting debate. Nothing will be perfect. Like so many things in life, its a compromise. I am just learning...a Baofeng is ok. As I learn I will look for more

[@davidsradioroom9678]

An excellent comparison! Thanks!

[@OH8STN]

Thank you David. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@yugbe]

It's so easy to build battery packs today, there is no excuse for powering a radio to be an afterthought. It's a very easy process, the tools are really easy to aquire, and the knowledge is everywhere. Build a pack, it's stupid easy.

[@autobond007]

EMP or Solar Flare scenario question. What handheld radio would work best in a EMP or Solar Flare scenario aftermath? I travel for work a distance daily. If I had my radio with me in a faraday bag and one in my cage for my wife at home. Which kind of radio would be the one to have if I get stuck many miles away after an EMP/Flare hits? The farthest I travel during my five day work week is about 80 miles away.

[@OH8STN]

Keep in mind, a handheld radio can't reach 80 miles without a repeater. In a solar flare or emp, we may assume repeaters are down. HF radio will work though. My suggestion. HF radio and battery at home in Faraday cage (modified ammo can). Have the HF antenna already setup at home, but train with your wife on setting it up and using it. Similarly, your car has modified ammo can Faraday cage with HF radio, battery, wire antenna, and magnetic antenna for roof of vehicle. Create a plan for frequency and timing so eventually, you snd your wife can coordinate. 40m, 60m, 80m for the 80 mile range is easy with 10 watts and a wire antenna. Sorry, but no easy answer with a handheld radio. Hope this helps.

[@autobond007]

@@OH8STN what HF package deal would recommend for that setup that is a bang for the buck? Thanxz

[@OH8STN]

It really depends on your situation. I would suggest looking at the radios in this video, checking the prices and features, then picking the best one for your situation. I do have a budget friendly option coming in a week or two. Stay tuned for that video.

[@bassmanjr100]

I have the G90, and your videos were one of the reasons I purchased it. Bottom line. It is easy to operate, inexpensive and it works. There's nothing wrong with that. Thx for the videos. 73.

[@OH8STN]

Well said 👍 73 Julian oh8stn

[@stealthmaster2020]

You nailed it!!! The best manpack summary I’ve seen. Weight,, reliability for rugged use, and then power/current draw are my priorities. I have most of these radios. I’m going to check out the TX500. Letting somebody else carry the amp is my preference. Share the load... Thanks!

[@DM-fz3ly]

Outstanding discussion and thought process! And your video image contrast at the beginning makes you look badA$$

[@preparetothrive9871]

Just getting into the hobby… I run an after school program where I teach self sufficiency. What mobile rig would you recommend?

[@juergenw7495]

"Most of you watching this channel are not gonna wait for government to save you" hit me hard haha yep yep... its fine if they help me but i better know how to help myself.

[@DARTHDANSAN]

People also need to consider satellite communication via garmin inreach mini

[@MrBikboi]

I am very glad I found your channel, incredibly insightful and useful information. I'm a relatively new ham and only have UHF/VHF experience and have a lot to learn. I got into the hobby because I do thoroughly enjoy it, however I also am a person who likes to prep and I think having a method of communication with loved ones outside of your location when the grid goes down is one of the most important things. Sitting and picturing it, no cell service, no method of communication, people are panicking and you have a way to communicate and make sure everyone is okay and move from there, I truly don't think that value can be understated, at the very least for your own sanity.

[@h00d000]

Excellent content! Love your videos, your tests, reviews and experimentation. From your video I just discovered that the filters for FT-81x indeed became unobtaineum. I have old ft817, but I’ve never used it with filters. Just voice comms and some RTT on 20m with amplifier, mostly on field days.

[@321ekib]

Thx for what your doing.

[@OH8STN]

You're very welcome. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@CamilleCullen-ow6qj]

Great video, many thanks!! Robert K5TPC

[@anandarochisha]

I ebike in the Canadian Winter ..about the same as Finnish 🇫🇮 i am sure..and i need those goggles!

[@EvanK2EJT]

I currently own two of the radios on your list. My G90 sits on my desk most of the time, and I use it as my base rig. My TX-500 is my go-to portable rig. The entire system (radio, battery, cables, mic, antenna, cw key, digirig, everything besides the solar panel and charge controller) fit in a hill people gear medium kit bag. I can grab that, and I have my entire system ready to go.

[@OH8STN]

Outstanding! Thanks for sharing this. It gives operators a practical look at how others set up their kits. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@mateuszk3210]

What is the price of tx500 in Europe? The list EU price, but does that include customs? If this radio hits customs they can easily add 50% to the price cause they can, so I wonder if it's worth ordering.

[@OH8STN]

@mateuszk3210 from Sweden pileupdx.com/product/discovery-tx-500/

[@mateuszk3210]

@@OH8STN Thank you!

[@mateuszk3210]

@@OH8STN One more question. Can you recommend ultra-light portable antenna tunner or is Emtech ZM-2 my best option? To put my question in a context - I am interested in hiking with a radio, however most HF radio equipment is way heavier than typical weight optimized hiking gear. For reference 900g backpack, 90g stove + 200g canister, 500g sleeping pad and 600g sleeping bag would be the heaviest components (2.3kg) to carry without the radio. I am wondering about lightest possible HF build, that won't break the bank.

[@KeithCPerry]

Thanks for this vid Julian. I'll definitely be recommending, I have the 817 and an 857 and I'm getting to the point where I think Yaesu just isn't interested in releasing a true modern successor in either of those form factors so I have to move on. I like the all band, all mode capability of the x6100 but the ruggedness of the TX500 speaks to me. I did want to know if you had any experience with the Q900v3 or v4. That seems to often get compared to the G90. Thanks for all you do and 73 de N3QQZ

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for the comments and question. The Q900x seems functionally like a nice all mode rig with expanded RX. Power options are good, Operating modes are good, but the form factor is terrible. We also don't know anything about the company, or how long they're going to be around. I'm also unsure about support from the company. The best I can say is time will tell. Yaesu seems locked into contest rigs. Starting with the 897 back in the day, They have discontinued every portable capable radio it had in the line up. This is also true for the vertex standard line of radios. Having been a "yaesu man", It crushes me that they ignore the market. Thanks for the kindness and for watching. It's greatly appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@pauls8456]

Like as not, in the first world, the government will come and save you ….

[@AurorasPop]

Great video! But all these years I'm wondering why there is no other radio doing U/V&HF in one qrp box, except the ergonomically disaster and far to LOW power FT81x without audio card... that I just sold. I would love to invest in a radio that enables me to have a direct connection with my phone or tablet for HF digimodes and also enable me to have a V/UHF link with my family or local crowd, that can fit in my bug-out bag. Ideally DMR enabled. So, who's taking up the challenge?

[@OH8STN]

Icom IC-705 👍

[@philipoulton7730]

I miss your intros... where dey go?

[@OH8STN]

The next video integrates the original intro again. Just trying to be more efficient by reducing the complex edits.

[@chrisgaeth]

Um, IC-705. Done and dusted.

[@jamesschmaus8597]

705 is good, I like mine. I feel it's underpowered, I sure would like the option to warm some wire especially local with 2m/440

[@neosentry]

@@jamesschmaus8597 .. it isn't the most powerful radio, but getting good at using it and overcoming that weakness with precision and efficiency is very cool exercise. Take WinlinkWednesday.. every week I obsess over the antenna and the farthest stations I think I can hit.. and I work them for my check-in. I make it a point to work 2000 km + every week, just so I keep the skill for doing that when it matters. ... then, when you have the ability to push up to 20W, it feel like you're cheating.

[@SerdarMutlu]

Thank you so much, Julian. It's truly helpful and I appreciate your time and effort. 73.

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@SerdarMutlu]

@@OH8STN now I'm leaning more toward TX500 which I didn't know much about it. Looks rigid.

[@dcentral]

If Icom can make a rugged, waterproof version of 705 then if will be the best overall radio. Its lack of waterproofness is major downside for such an expensive radio. I wouldn’t be comfortable taking risk in rainy and snowy conditions.

[@OH8STN]

Thankfully there is 1 rugged and waterproof radio in the market and that's the tx-500. I would certainly buy the icon if they ever built it.

[@LWRC]

Holly molly - those must be some serious nuclear bomb proof glasses bro!!!

[@markcarleton6647]

Brilliant content as usual Julian. I always look forward to your videos.

[@OH8STN]

Thanks. The format is still kind of "weird" but hopefully getting better.73 Julian oh8stn

[@jamesschmaus8597]

Nice and wide open for discussion! Depends on what is ment by survival radio? Should be fun

[@nonokodog622]

Someone really needs to rewrite the JS8Call code base. If the encoder and decoder was extracted we could build some really light weight user interfaces. The way it is now, the GUI and the signal processing is all mashed together.

[@OH8STN]

Agreed!

[@ornotermes]

IC-705 doesn't have APRS, considering everything it has, it's a huge disappointment for me. And if it had it, I would probably have gotten one. With ISS it's pretty easy to get APRS messages out a few times a day, especially if they implement easy swapping between APRS profiles for sat and ground.

[@OH8STN]

Yes, for some people APRS is important. For others, Robust Packet over HF, JS8Call or Winlink might be more via options for communications any time of day or night. I certainly wouldn't have been disappointed if the rig had APRS built in. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@KE7NKF]

Jillian thank you for all your hard work in time I know it creates a lot of expense with all the building and testing. Thank you! I have the IC 705. It's been a fun rig to play with. With digital modes. Is Blue Tooth a safe way to go? Do you notice more power consumption with Blue Tooth on? Thank you for all you do. de Bill KE7NKF

[@OH8STN]

For digital modes definitely the Wi-Fi is the way to go. The Bluetooth is used for voice Communications, for example wireless microphones and headsets. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@iamnobody9542]

I started QRP / portable with an 817, a friend wanted it soooo baaadd, so I sold it to him and got an 817ND. Never had any final problems with either one, and I use the original LDG tuner, the one with the toggle switches and no memories, which I dont need as the antennas are different each time, anyways, and I usually use resonant dipoles. Switch to AM to drop the carrier power to protect the finals when tuning. With Lithium AA's, you get full voltage till dry, and enough current for 5 W, and 4 - 5 hours op time. Recharge? Replace them. 2 - 3 minutes. Has been my lifeline on several deep canoe trips - hello ecars? Send rescue helicopters with hot pizza and cold drinks... (just kidding) Jerry wa2omu

[@OH8STN]

The lithium AAs is an excellent tip 👍 73 Julian oh8stn

[@woodhobbyist7231]

Would really love your opinion on this: I have been watching your ICOM 705 videos because a local ham is offering me a great deal to buy his used rig. As a note, I’m in the US (Midwest) but have family in Puerto Rico that has been through 2 hurricanes in recent years. Internet and power are issues in scenarios like these. Being stateside, hurricanes where I live are not an issue but I would like to be prepared in a scenario where there are power outages and no internet (more common for my area). I’m curious as to how I can operate FT8 (or HF modes) without internet access if I wanted to make long distance communication. Or… if there is another survival rig you’d recommend if I needed to get in contact with PR but there were power issues stateside as well, such as some kind of global natural disaster. I’m considering buying the 705 because of the great battery options, but then again, would that even help if I needed to contact PR? Thanks and 73s.

[@OH8STN]

One might not realize there are several complex questions here. One question is of the radio, another is of the off grid power supply. The radio is fine and highly recommended. You may want to consider a small amplifier to augment the radio as a future purchase. There are a variety of ways power the radio. All of them include a battery , power distribution , and a way to charge the battery. Here's one of my videos on a simple battery build with power distribution kzbin.info/www/bejne/gl7Ch2unhMtjnq8 you don't have to build it, just watch it as a means of learning about powering your radio. Other third thing you mentioned was getting in touch with your people back in PR. From the Midwest to Puerto Rico is definitely an HF radio Endeavor. You've got the radio side squared away but you'll need to sort out tonight antenna. The antenna configuration depends on how you plan on reaching out to Puerto Rico. Directly with voice or data, or indirectly with Winlink, ion2g, robust packet, ... here's a playlist on Asynchronous communications Asynchronous Emergency Communications | OH8STN Ham Radio: kzbin.info/aero/PLKMrdrsNkFA6U2dC0LrL8_IKBGC0fDhRq Anyway there's a lot to the questions you asked. I would start off with the basics of understanding your your station and how to power it. You've already got the radio oh, now you need to focus on getting those messages through to Puerto Rico and back, and the power and antenna you need to achieve that. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@M9A1MAN]

Great video. Something that doesn't get mentioned a lot, is a simple SDR. I love my SDR Play. Simple to use, anyone can use it, license or not, and don't need to spend tons of money. Yeah you wont be able to TX, but as a prepper, you should be monitoring traffic more than anything during a SHTF situation.

[@OH8STN]

Agreed in certain circumstances. I also have videos on SDR monitoring. The only ptoblem with an SDR,is most of them are receive only. If you need to communicate with one, we can't! Another problem is decoding what the SDR can hear. A clever operator will ensure we only see "noise" in the waterfall. Thus getting no useable information from that audio stream. Finally, a simple SDR usually covers 25Mhz and higher. Experienced operators are using NVIS on 160-40 meters. The SDRPlay is awesome for RX in this regard. It's very nice seeing operators invest the proper money for an SDR 👍. Truth is, we need both. Proper all-mode RX/TX rigs and SDR for monitoring. Thanks for watching and commenting. Very much appreciated.

[@southernexposure123]

It costs nothing to be polite. It can cost you a lot to be rude.

[@paulyoungs7828]

Can you recommend a mic for the x6100?

[@greghernandez3012]

As always, a nice objective review. 👍👍👍

[@tommartin2335]

Outstanding presentation! I own both the G90 and 705, but my go to radio is the Elecraft KX3, thanks for all you do!! 73 de K0EAO

[@OH8STN]

If I had an Elecraft, it would be a KX3. I have always loved that rig. The only reason it wasn't mentioned is I don't have one. The low current consumption is epic. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@DavePhelps]

So you talk about the qrp + amp quite often now. Could you do a video about the amplifier options available these days? The format from this video would be quite helpful applied to the amp topic.

[@OH8STN]

I could if I had all of the different amplifier possibilities. Perhaps it would be possible to do a video like that based on the spec sheets of each amp. Anyway, I like the idea. Let's see how to make it happen.

[@yugbe]

You can upgrade the 705 to usb-c

[@thequarantinecatholic]

I purchased the Xiegu G-90 after watching many of your videos.I just love the radio. Your videos rock!

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for this comment. Sometimes, the louder voices make it seem like the effort is wasted. Your comment is pure motivation. Thank you! 73 Julian oh8stn

[@marklunday4151]

Outstanding analysis and comparison, Julian! Thanks for taking the time to put this together.

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@Daisy-yq1gi]

Hold on. Great video BUT most people do NOT want to have to do a degree in comms to use these radios. Neither do we all have the money needed for this. You're units featured here are VERY expensive and that puts them beyond the pocket of, in your example, most Turks, everyone in Africa, the developing world, etc etc. So could you do another video with affordable radios people most likely to suffer from a natural disaster? I live in the UK but my wife is Ghanaian and her family is more likely to need to use it than anyone in the West....

[@OH8STN]

I was almost triggered by the comment but thought, the part about cost is spot on. Skills are important. A/ Communications plan will fail without training. There is no way around it. The cost we can do something about! Stay tuned.👍