COMMS Part 1 - Overland Communication tools/gear - Ham Radio, WeBoost, Garmin inReach

[@LastLineOfDefense]

More detailed Ham video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3nPgHaEZrGljqM Shop the gear list here - www.amazon.com/shop/lastlineofdefense

[@damiangrouse4564]

Last Line Of Defense You hit on it but rejected it...in effect it gives you a mobile cell tower by boosting the signal. Of course if you’re in a extreme primitive area with no possibility of any signal you’re SOL.

[@KLLSWITCH]

Last Line Of Defense what adapter are you running to fit the stubby antenna

[@redfernsoljah]

KLLSWITCH they are NMO type mounts for the Cannon style Antenna. The mount is made by diamond k400

[@glock19gen3]

Links are not working for me

[@tothewoodsnet6714]

Hi LLOD - fellow Colorado ham here who shares a few of your interests. Just found your channel and subscribed...good stuff! Wanted to share a page I put together that might be interesting to your audience: building a simple entry-level ham setup for overlanding or emergency comms. I keep one of these in each vehicle. There are links to radio and external antenna installs too, like you discussed...and I also don't like drilling into my vehicle. www.tothewoods.net/Comms-vehicle-emergency-communications-EMCOMM-kit.php Thinking about starting a KZbin channel but only have a few videos up right now to experiment. Hope to see you on the trail someday!

[@carterburlison]

I just want to say. Today I got my technician license. This video is the reason I started looking into HAM radio to mount in my rig.. 4years ago started my LOOONG journey into a very expensive hobby. In other words. Thank you.

[@jokomoto2]

HAM is great for all the things you talked about. Zombie Apocalypse is one example. But more importantly, in light of the huge catastrophic fires we have been having, HAM helps those who live in more forested areas to coordinate exit plans when asked to evacuate. A friend of mine lives in Southern California, has a HAM in his rig (Toyota Tundra) and volunteers for the local Fire service to help spot fire spread, and help coordination of evacuation activities. When fires are large enough, the cell phone system will be taken out within the effected area. So, to back up your point, having proper communications could/will be life saving.

[@joewilson2258]

What do you do when the grid and internet goes down ? What happens when your cellphone service goes down ? You know exactly what will happen . No matter what happens amateur radio will never fail because the new Ham radios are 12 volt . There is so many different ways to power up your radios that is not dependent on the grid for power .

[@jamesmcnamara7484]

Shoot, move, communicate it’s the combat survival mantra drilled into my skull from my time.

[@nickc3856]

>not having a flock of carrier pigeons for true off-grid communication Come on Mike, it's time to boss up

[@LastLineOfDefense]

I am but a noob.

[@bara2ban]

@@LastLineOfDefense 9:12 Lapel microphone. 18:09 If cellphone has no signal bars it does *NOT* mean there is NO signal. Think of the old phones, they had external antenna(for a reason) and now they hide them inside the phone(because towers are more common). Every layer of anything is reducing radio wave to a degree. So your cellphone antenna is inside *cellphone.* Then you might have a *case* on your phone. You get inside the vehicle, you got *glass* ( the best insulator). *Metal,* *panels,* *materials* and so on. On top of that if your cell tower is behind some kind of *terrain,* literally couple of feet up or down makes a big difference. That is why your roof mounted antenna is so different from your cellphone antenna.

[@Th3unknownuser111]

Drove 6 hours with a group of friends in 4 different cars and I gave them all radios. We talked the entire trip up... I don't leave on any trips on or offroad without a radio. Like you said, you can't see yourself without one now.

[@SchoenImprovement]

These Comms videos were so well done. After getting my HAM license, I wouldn’t mind seeing an update on all that and going deeper into how you use it all still

[@kurtvv790]

I use the same Yaesu HAM radio. It's great for offroading. And I appreciate having the APRS function to share my location with my gf.

[@kurtvv790]

@Default Name I do not monitor other beacons honestly. But I still value the ability to allow my fiance to track my location when APRS reception is good. It's also possible to send emails and texts with APRS, though I haven't dabbled in that very much and it's something I should explore more.

[@kurtvv790]

@Default Name I also recently improved my navigation setup to include a tablet running APRS Droid and Back Country Navigator XE which I can then interface with my radio using a Mobilinkd TNC3. This allows me to see other APRS users on a map in a real time while off grid.

[@TURNERJE12]

Most underrated channel on KZbin

[@hectorjulian2535]

I can't believe I watch this whole thing, but it was that good. Nothing like comms. Good video. Thanks Mike.

[@Paintbl99]

I'm glad you clarified that, my buddy just told that it won't create a signal in areas where you have no service.

[@richardah1]

I love some of the terms you use when you don't know models of stuff. Ha! It's awesome. All this tech stuff may not be your "thing" but it doesn't matter. You're doing a great job of explaining it and keeping it entertaining. I didn't even realize it was almost 26 minutes long. I'm a ham. I have an Extra class license. I agree communications are very important but I also agree with you on the food and guns part. Also, just because your cell phone doesn't show it has a signal doesn't mean the radio waves aren't floating around you. They're just too weak for the phone to register them.

[@NunYa953]

It would be wise to keep your handheld radio in something waterproof. I'm also in Colorado. I was part of a volunteer search and rescue group. We got called to find someone in the Gunnison valley who had a mobile ham as well as a handheld backup. Both ended up under water and as a result the guy no longer has his hands due to the frostbite he suffered while stranded. Had he not informed someone when he expected to be back, he wouldn't be alive. He said it was the biggest mistake of his life.

[@LastLineOfDefense]

hard lessons learned for sure - thank you for the valuable tip!

[@PrepperRussell]

LLOD is the best channel. Hands down.

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Aww shucks

[@RedDirtShooter]

I agree! I need to be a patreon supporter! Lets see more backpacking videos? maybe too mush to ask? Great audio, video, content, good info but the Garmin Inreach def got my attention. Hiking AT in may. Anyways, Why not be patreon supporter? signing up now !@@LastLineOfDefense

[@chrisunderwood7560]

Fellow Tacoma owner/HAM here in Colorado. I also have a repeater in NoCo. I also use the statewide DMR network here in Colorado. Maybe we will chat sometime. Love the videos!

[@lemonesnickit5009]

We should get a group together. I also am a Taco owner/HAM here in Colorado.

[@FireAnt947]

I like fish tacos, so why not ham tacos

[@davidgreen9957]

Nicely done! I wish that HAM radio was covered this well in most Off-Road most videos. The Yaesu FTD400 is a really nice rig. Still undecided on what radio to put in my Jeep.

[@danschardein856]

Excellent communications overview! Being new to truck camping/overlanding this is very helpful. While disconnecting is great and certainly don’t need social media out there, having the ability to communicate if necessary provides peace of mind, especially for novices like us. We have found that even in state parks here there is little or no cell service in most. Next step is my Ham license. Keep them coming👍

[@TechMechRandom]

The booster antenna creates a doughnut shaped wave pattern (horizontally) that overlaps with the cell towers. It then supplies the interior antenna with a valid signal. So when WeBoost says it does not create signal, that is a true statement from the stand point of a cell tower data. If there is no tower around you for miles (30+) the booster would not be able to overlap and output usable signal.

[@kg4tri]

Legal power limit on Cell phone is 3w the old bag phone of the 90s had that amount. but less then 1/2 w is the stranded for cell phones now. If you remember in your ham study ERP (Effective radiated power ) the antenna DB gain adds to the boost aswell. From what I can tell from the website it might use a combination of both. Back about 10 to 15 years ago there was a company doing the same thing for cell phone users in the trucking industry but I think they went out of business. BTW I have been a truck driver for over 30 years and a ham for 17 currently hold amateur extra.

[@caseyalexander8504]

I used to work in the oilfields in in North Dakota and Wyoming and they put those weBoost things on all of our rigs. They actually do seem to work as we would get decent signal even in the middle of nowhere

[@angeloterrones9789]

Casey Alexander How much did that pay if u don’t mind me asking thinking about going into that line of work.

[@howarddavis165]

You can add a handheld speaker/mic and magnetic roof mount antenna if you look on ebay or amazon. Amazon is best bet for quality n reassurance you wont get hosed. Baofeng UV-5r is best for cost. You dont need a massive, expensive set up for a good ham rig on the trails. Least expensive that meets needs is best n 5 watts is enough if youre in a group. Yes, you need a technician license (yes, the baofeng requires ham license) for ham radio uhf/vhf but its worth it. I also recommend cb, midland 75-822 n a magmount antenna with a speaker/mic. If you get both setups, its less than $200 and works great on trails. I have both in my xterra and have for years. This setup cost little for what i get. I can wheel with cb and ham folks so im always good n can roam solo (safely since i can get help if things get too real) or with a group. Keep making vids, dude! Nice Yaesu.

[@wesleywindham1880]

I’m studying for my ham now and it’s actually not as easy as I was told it would be but I really don’t know much about anything electrical so I have a lot to learn

[@crowstew]

did you ever get your ham license? hope you did. It is a fun hobby.

[@keithfrost1268]

Best 26 minutes I've spent in a while. Thank you

[@jayotron]

Great video. I love seeing your setup. As an electrical engineer I had to comment on the Weboost system. The antenna in your cellphone is really small, so when the signal is weak it can lose it rather easily, especially when it’s inside a metal enclosure (your Tacoma). The weboost antenna is larger and much for sensitive to signals in your area and can amplify them so your cellphone can pick it up. So in order for it to work there has to be at least a weak cellphone signal in your area. If the cellphone signal is attenuated too much or there is no signal the weboost system will not work.

[@panagiotispapanikolaou4924]

Llod + videos = best informative content👌🏽

[@RedDirtShooter]

be a patreon supporter. I am literally sining up now @Last Line Of Defense

[@ethanbegano517]

My understanding of cell signal is that the limiting factor for signal is your phone itself. Even if your phone sees a tower, it will decide if it has the signal strength to effectively communicate with the tower, and then tell you your bars based on how strong of communication it has. If it’s hearing the tower stronger through your cell booster, it believes it can communicate more effectively. Whether that’s 100% true or not idk but that’s the explanation I received

[@hondaridgelineenduser5934]

Keep a second mobile radio as a minimalist ham shack in your pad, hey drop down ur call sign. Greta video

[@Sleeptalkin]

Congratulations on the new place! Keep up the good work bro! Love watching you grow here on KZbin!

[@Lee784447]

Like Ham Radio, GRMS is now $35 for both. With Ham you can get into HF, to keep it simple it’s like CB only better. True you need to take a test but it’s worth it!

[@michaelgee7509]

Awesome video Mike. My wife and I are looking at homes in Conifer and Evergreen. We live I western Washington and are moving soon. Great channel, great content. Keep up the good work.

[@JonathanDavidLife]

Totally agree with part of the fun being the communication- definitely adds a layer :)

[@samuelmayhew3422]

Been waiting for a communication video. You've been great for ideas for my new ride!

[@zacharywinters1841]

I appreciate the rambling you covered a lot of the communications that I'm interested in I have an overlanding Excursion and we'll be moving on to more weboost and ham radio stuff soon so again thank you for the info I follow a lot of what you saying as well as the prepping.

[@hondaridgelineenduser5934]

Do a series on technician, general and extra

[@earlmonteclaro9833]

Congrats on the new pad and happy new year! Thanks for the comms info!

[@factoremaurora4305]

Hey man, I like your channel, stop apologizing, your videos are great, keep up the good work, I have the same truck, yous was an inspiration so thanks man!

[@amoux5931]

Please do a video on how to install the ham like you did.

[@synthetik99]

Ham n00b(ish) here, haven't gone full nerd (yet). You'll likely get more range from your Jpole over the Diamond as long as its well tuned and you can get it high up in a tree. Increased height will lengthen your radio horizon making the power of your mobile much more effective (and the HT as well), this will also extend their battery life allowing you the same effective range at lower power. I would highly recommend 'nelson_antennas' on eBay his Deluxe Model 2M/70CM Roll up J-Pole, he makes them tuned for MURS as well which is another great (and unlicensed) comms option that allows for external antennas if one does not want to jump into HAM. The 2M/70CM also has FANTASTIC wideband receive for scanners, and they're super useful if you live in an apartment and can't put up a real antenna. Simply placing it in a window I can hit repeaters an extra 5-10 miles away and pick up digital P25 simulcast on the scanner from surrounding cities 30+ miles away. Make sure you select the right connector for your radio/scanner before you buy, 73 www.ebay.com/itm/DELUXE-MODEL-ROLL-UP-2M-70CM-ROLL-UP-J-POLE-SLIM-JIM-ANTENNA-WITH-10FT-COAX/190898779511

[@smackymcproductions4443]

That might have been my favorite video of yours, and I've seen a lot of them. Thanks!

[@redfernsoljah]

Baofeng BF-F8HP is the most current unit replacing the UV-5r. Can be found for $30 and accepts all accessories. Recommend a 3800mah batteries for it.

[@duncdunc76]

Great Vid Great Info! I'm on to watch part 2.

[@lexmedic157]

I have a booster hardwired into my 4Runner, but my understanding to it is that while your device shows zero bars, it effectively gets the 1. antenna out of the vehicle 2. puts a better antenna up, and 3. amplifies what signals there may be in the area. it doesn't create a signal, just amplifies an existing. the inherent problem with amplification, is that it raises the noise floor. so while you may get more "signal" you're also increasing the noise, which, may cause data, or service issues. don't get me wrong, it's a valuable tool and I have mine running all the time, just have to know the limitations of it.

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Correct, nothing can magically create a signal - though if you have 0 bars, you *effectively* have no signal - flipping on the weboost 'creates' a signal where there previously was none. Though technically it is amplifying a signal that was too weak for your phone to pick up and use.

[@tattooedmember]

@@LastLineOfDefense Mike, while you make a valid point that zero bars is no signal that is not technically true. A zero bar icon is still a signal it is not a usable signal for most phones. A true no signal would be the no service icon. What the weboost does is amplify signals in both directions like repeaters do for ham radios. The signal is there for the amplifier to boost into a usable signal for the phone. Great video and good information! I enjoy your channel and watch it every chance I get.

[@juanbtf]

For the 1st time watching your videos I decided to click on the amazon wishlist thing and wow I'm like a kid in a candy store :D lol.

[@4313Ap]

okay, this is what the weboost is, it's a micro repeater... the same as a normal FM ham repeater it has a local antenna (small) like the stub antenna on your hood, and an amplifier, duplexer connected to an antenna with higher gain (the one on the roof) like the one you swap out for longer range communications... think of it as a combination "repeater" and an (disconnected from the internet) "Micro Cell"... but in actuality, it's either an amplifier, or a "Transverter" (repeats cell signals from one band to another I.E. a "Cross band Cell repeater")

[@dcproductions7418]

Could you please send product link setup for your ram ball set up. Just got my weboo and ready to mount. Thanks

[@minhster714]

Small correction, the Garmin InReach doesn't communicate via GPS, it has GPS but the communication functions are via Iridium satellites

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Thanks for the info - sorry for misspeaking about that particular tech!

[@mattlewandowski73]

Personally I am fond of my Icom 706mk2 for a ham radio (I am considering moving it to a portable case and getting a new radio for my truck when I get a new truck). I am just a tech but I am going to get a general upgrade after I do my license renewal so I can use HF with NVIS since I too am in mountains and valleys where I live. Your description of how WeBoost can get a signal when your phone can not was rather awkward. Most people understand an amplifier makes a louder/stronger signal. So it may have been easier to simply explain that it hears the signal that your phone considers to be too weak and amplifies it making it stronger. Overall, an excellent video covering the various types of communications equipment you may use when out on the trail or otherwise in the middle of nowhere. I am going to have to check out the Garmin. I have long been a fan of spot, but am disappointed that they never came up with a replacement for the Spot Connect which allowed you to connect to your cell or tablet and send customized text messages.

[@chrismoorhead11]

I'm looking at getting my gmrs license and radio I already have a cb but I've always been interested in Ham radio

[@geminij610]

Great video. Congrats on your new home. Give us tour when u can.

[@davidm1635]

the weboost inside antenna needs to be central in the vehicle, pointed into the center of your tacoma toward all passengers -not in the passenger area pointed at the side of the truck. you can get a free app to monitor your cell signal to see the difference moving it around inside the truck. 73, kk4zuu

[@stayathomedad4468]

Been waiting for these videos! Thanks

[@expert244]

I NEED that T-shirt. Now more than ever in 2020.....

[@Atoyota25]

Hi From Cotopaxi! Regarding the WeBoost... I've been trying to find an answer to this question and haven't been able to find one. What is the range of the smaller re-broadcast antenna? Another way to ask this is how far away from the rebroadcast antenna can you be and still get a signal boost?

[@ItsMarsG19]

@lastlineofdefense Which bracket are you using to install it in that cubby? You mention an L bracket but mine did not come with an L bracket. Thank you

[@FLsheepdog1]

Just because you phone doesn't register bars doesn't mean there is no signal. It means that your receiver (phone) cant operate or register the low signal. Click the booster on it takes the weak signal from the better external antenna and boosts it up so your phone can now read it.

[@deathofadam]

The booster does not create signal where there is none... just bc ur phone can't pick up the signal doesn't mean it isn't there. It boosts a signal where the signal is too minute for your phone. I realize you explained it but you said multiple time that it creates a signal where there isn't a signal... thats not accurate. It could confuse those that aren't paying much attention. I do appreciate your video! I think I will look into HAM now 😀

[@johnlhigh]

Congrats on the LLOD Amazon page...

[@DXAMedia]

CB and GMRS are more handy as more people don't bother to get HAM license. So i can only give them FRS toys to speak to me. And legally should also use another toy radio. Weboost is not effective here around LA. In the mountains if there is a signal it is where if you turn behind the hill it is not there. But want to mention about ESIM phones (all new samsungs). I have NVMO from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile on the same phone. And where are lot of spots where one works and not others.

[@zlothra]

It doesn't create signal, just amplifies a weak signal so your phone can recognize it. Just because your phone doesn't see it doesn't mean there isn't anything there. Same thing occurs when you swap out to a bigger antenna for your HAM.

[@robgrt]

Your Yaesu's APRS will also let you send Txt as well as send / receive email and photos.

[@CMCSS-to3to]

Have you ever used radio to call for assistance if your truck got stuck or something?

[@timothyholtjr.8600]

I need help finding a mount for my weboost antenna and I really like the one you have on the hood area.. where did you find that? Or something similar.. Love the channel and thanks in advance!!

[@l84cabo]

Wait...you moved? Give us a tour of the new place!!!! 🙂

[@GoGriz]

I see you have two weBoosts on your amazon list. I must live just up the street from you, near White Ranch Park. I was considering a weboost for my jeep as I lose cell reception while driving up and down the gulches [and also when I'm wheeling]. Of the two, which do you recommend? One disadvantage of the drive reach is a) the antenna mount needs metal [no metal on the top of a jeep] and b) If I 3M tape it to the top of my jeep its harder to take down if I need to get into a parking garage [I'm already near the height limit in most garages ;) ]. The OTR version antenna looks more like something I can attach to my rear spare tire carrier [high enough to stick up over the roof] but with a mount that I can bend it downward when needed for tight fits. Thoughts?

[@billsias42]

The cell booster is the same thing as a two/six meter ham radio repeater, except it only transmits after a signal is received. It can receive a cell tower signal when it's on, when a signal matches your receiver (phone) it rings it.....hello?

[@timothy6140]

Thanks for the gear list !!!

[@chrisdimenichi6327]

What was the route you used for the Weboost antenna cable?

[@chrisaryee]

The weboost amplifies signal. Just because your phone isn’t picking up a signal doesn’t mean there isn’t a signal. It just means your phone is not powerful enough to pick it up, That’s where the weboost comes in.

[@ericmcdaniel4029]

You should show your new house. The other one was awesome looking.

[@OverlandTrax]

Nice video, keep them coming 👍

[@Michael_Dolences.]

Great! Been waiting for this one.

[@flashMXdesigner]

Since you seem to puzzle over words, no signal = no signal, no signal goes forever, that's what they mean... someone will complain no matter what. Also, it's not 'rebroadcasting', it's not a repeater, it's just radiating the signal perhaps with a small amplifier. Otherwise nice video, I liked.

[@andrewg648]

I'll send you a brand new copy of the ham General test guide if you give it a shot!

[@Wesshaw1996]

If you don't want to get ham there's some VHF radios that were for marine applications and everybody can use them

[@jrgt628]

Marine frequently are recorded 24/7

[@timothyrainess4825]

Can you use ham radios for an emergency operations like if your volunteer if they put it in their vehicles to talk to each other

[@drannantidwell175]

To talk in HAM terms the weboost is a nicely tuned and sensitive antenna combined with pre amp attached to a low power transceiver sitting under the seat of your Taco...btw I is that your rig on the ikamper mini ad I came across?

[@WisdomInTheWoods]

Good shit Thank you for your service

[@budbran4962]

What is the #M tape you refer to, I don't see it in your liast?

[@mharper3]

Would love to see the Weboost more in-depth and how you did the install? Where did you run the cables? Would you still recommend their product?

[@taterfab8845]

You don't need that Garmin with APRS on that FTM-400 of yours, You can do APRS text messaging just put in the "To" SMSGTE then in the message "@thephonenumber" then space and your message, once they get the message they can respond and you can have a whole conversation ;)

[@gebaril60]

Hi Mike, thanks for your awesome and always interesting videos. I’d also like to thank you for the WeBoost information. I ordered a WeBoost for my Taco and waiting for it to arrive. I also have the same but older diamondback tonneau cover. I’m trying to find a way to mount the antenna. I cannot get a phone signal where I hunt and there is a cell tower about 4 miles away so I’m hoping the WeBoost will pull the signal in. Keep up the vids.

[@davidgonzales9308]

Hi, I was thinking of purchasing the Drive Reach OTR for my 4Runner to be used when overlanding. When I called weboost support, they mentioned this model would be the best solution. One thing I noticed is that on their website it mentions you must register the device with your wireless provider and get consent. Did you have to do that?

[@wcp004]

Have you gone through an automatic car wash with the antenna ?mounted

[@ItsAdventureTime1]

Go through a Cat3+ Hurricane and see how useful a cell phone is. Towers go down and the network gets so congested that you can't even send a text. Also, the power is out at that point and you can't even charge the cell phone. Then, because there is no signal, the phone is killing its battery searching for a signal.

[@hobscott5739]

What did you use to mount the head unit

[@paulhorton8193]

The Weboost sounds like it functions similar to a HAM Repeater, and amplifier. It basically will take your signal, repeat it outside the vehicle, and send it out with higher gain/power than your phone can do. Then do the same with return traffic from the cell tower. Is that about right?

[@michaelo1907]

I want to have a set of GMRS radios in my Tacoma so that I can hand one to my son or trail buddy when we go camping or overlanding. I am opting for GMRS because while mostly used for truck to truck communications, I like the option of being able to leverage a repeater if we are in a jam to get help if we have no cell coverage. I have the GMRS "license"/paid the FCC fee. What I know about comms is very little, I've tried to educate myself by watching your and other videos, so maybe my logic is flawed. but for my own reasons I do not want Ham or CB and I do not want an external antenna. I also want it to be able to access weather channels and remain in my truck ready to go all charged up and connected to my USB outlets (without a clunky charging cradle). I am having a hard time finding such a thing that is not plain FRS.Any suggestions? And thanks for your great channel, love it. I have the same truck but access cab and certainly not customized or kitted out like yours, although I have some small projects in mind.

[@williambetzelberger6128]

There are some smaller handheld GMRS and frs out there, but for any distance you'll want an external antenna a mag mount will do, I know it isn't what you want, but the science of rf says you'll need it if you're communicating any good distance unless you have a repeater to utilize. 73 KE8JMD

[@libertyroads7342]

I'm already saving up for more Ham, CB, Scanner gear... Now I'm adding the WeBoost to my wishlist for my truck.

[@ontarioman100]

You do not Need a lic for ham radio to listen only if you want to comunicate but if its a Emergency you can comunicate even without the Lic!

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Correct, I had meant to mention that, but totally spaced it.

[@jeffb437]

On that ftm-400 can you direct enter freqs from the hand mic or do you have to mess with the control head first? Scoured the manual and internet today without any luck trying to figure it out.. love your channel, keep it up!

[@BajaFreshTaco]

Great information thank you very much.

[@mdfogarty]

11:27 No, Garmin mini doesn't "send a text through GPS." GPS is one-way. It sends a text through the Iridium satellite network.

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Correct

[@bluetunder40]

Cool video bro

[@Pops_607]

Have you ever thought about joining a search team? Colorado 4x4 search and recovery is in your state.... Look up Justin king... They are awesome....

[@LastLineOfDefense]

Yeah I've thought about it quite a bit - unfortunately at this point in my life I have too many obligations that don't give me enough free time to do what would be required of that commitment. Hopefully one day when life slows down a bit, I'll be able to join one.

[@randyhahn2601]

I see you are wearing the new TAD Bastogne jacket

[@automaddock]

Hey man...just got the 3 RAM parts from your store for my Weboost. How did you attach the Weboost antenna to the RAM 9mm Angled Bolt Head Adapter Ball Base?

[@immaculate7155]

You can infact, use your phone as a 2-way radio. Look into an app called 'Zello' - its a new-is generation of network radio.

[@derekcomingo2197]

so when ur communicating with friends do randomly pick a channel to be on. like everybody go to 152.500 or something.

[@LastLineOfDefense]

My group of guys has a channel we're typically on - but yeah if we're with some other people we can pick something else.

[@hockeyfreak043]

Look into zello...its a push to talk for your phone.its better than a radio.can use that for backup..but zello is awsome..we use for some of my fire dept buddys an other friends..just have to have an email. An when u do it have to remember it user name an passcode..an confirm It though email an ur good.

[@drannantidwell175]

Zello uses the wifi signal from your phone to turn it from a radio that talks to the net into a radio that talks to other humans...if I understand it correctly you can add a boosted router to the system and boost range and power.