Does GMRS replace CB Radio

#GMRS #MidlandRadio #CBRadio #midlandgmrs #MXT275
In this video we try our GMRS radio while traveling 600 miles on I90 in New York to see if CB Radio has been replaced by GMRS.
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[@billpelt1]

Not many people using GMRS radios yet. I got my Midland 50W with 3 dB Ghost antenna, it works very well, clear and loud, talk to people 30 miles away in the Portland area. I'm happy with the radio, quality and simplicity. Got my call sign by the way, $35 for 10 years

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing

[@samenamenamesame2834]

​@@paulethier3416 IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LICENSE YOU ARE ILLEGAL ON GMRS!

[@robertulliana7011]

We recently used the Baofeng 2w radios on a trip to N Ga. Traveling with 2 other vehicles they worked great communicating with each other vs cell phones. We stayed on ch 22 so did not hear any other radio traffic. Our main purpose for GMRS is for traveling with others, camping, and trail riding. Also very handy around the property.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes, that is what they are best for. In this video I was trying to see if it was being used for traveling in general but its not. Its a friends and family thing for sure. Thanks for commenting.

[@chadrides914]

cb would have been better and more useful than your bufangz

[@RichPohlman]

The Baofeng radios are not type accepted for GMRS.

[@myfastcars]

Thats exactly what I would use them for.

[@LilRedDog]

@@RichPohlman They have GMRS 'only' radios. And hacking one handheld to push 8 watts with a 3-5dBi gain antenna still keeps them well within legal limits outside the FMRS channels. No one cares what you transmit with as long as you are not interfering with a channel.

[@clintonandrews1538]

The big advantage that CB has is that most over the road drivers (truckers) use it and they have a wealth of knowledge. After coming out of a restaurant on I-65 there was a lot of chatter on Ch. 19 about a multi-car accident about 20 miles ahead. The drivers shared a workaround: Take this exit, drive four miles East, turn left and follow that highway and it will take you right back to I-65 beyond the accident. Great to hear. I was thankful to those drivers for saving me hours sitting in a three lane parking lot.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing that story.

[@RustyZipper]

I had the opposite happen. My GPS alerted of a slow down due to an accident and had me hop off. The CB was surprisingly inactive. I tried calling out to others on Ch 19 to warn them but no one answered 🤷‍♂️ my mother always said that I have a face for radio so maybe that was the reason. I opened up Waze and it was quite the back up, easily saved 30 minutes

[@clintonandrews1538]

Thanks for the reply. It is great when other drivers are willing to give a heads-up!@@RustyZipper

[@gant8408]

Truckers are actually switching to gmrs now

[@lesjones5684]

No don’t leave cb 😢😢😢😢

[@shiftintohigh5564]

My experience as well. Ham also. Off roading GMRS is used. Thanks for doing this.👍👍😎🇺🇸

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. Seems to be a regional thing to. Some areas are GMRS more than others.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I drive the masspike/128 from Sturbridge to Burlington twice a week and don't hear much even when traffic is backed up. There is one repeater in the Sturbridge area I hear activity on sometimes. I also heard a pet store in Palmer, MA once. Like you said, I think GMRS is best for when you need to talk car-to-car to someone you already know.

[@paulethier3416]

It was definitely different than what I was thinking was gonna happen. I didn’t think it was going to be like CB but I didn’t expect to hear nothing.

[@beansmalone1305]

I spend a lot of time in the Waltham area and my experience has been the same with GMRS. I used to scan all channels and listen on ch 16 and still nothing. I recently got my general ham license and have had more success on 2M simplex calling (146.520). I'm looking into possibly setting up a "GMRS live" node if the landlord will let me put an antenna on the roof.

[@Dankbudzz]

@@paulethier3416I travel from Rhode Island up through mass it’s dead unless your on repeaters lol

[@georgebarnes8163]

We use a similar system in the UK called PMR (446-446.2 mhz) normally with 16 channels, all licence free. The limitations are that the TX can not exceed a 1/2 Watt and the antenna must be of the fixed type, I can get good distances line of sight but can also trigger repeaters for greater range, it is not uncommon for people to use 10 watt TX sets which are readily available and cheap to purchase.

[@paulethier3416]

That sounds similar to our FRS system. Thanks for sharing your comment.

[@tigerlilypritchard1237]

In Australia, we have a 5w 80 channel CBRS with repeater channels allocated, and the Road Channel is 40, although 29 is used between Sydney and Brisbane along our M1/A1 route, 40 everywhere else throughout the Continent. The Call Channel is 11 and Channel 05 (and it's repeater input 35) are the government allocated Emergency Channel. Frequency range 476-477Mhz. In wide use here with trucks, businesses, 4WD's/SUV and the grey nomad recreational folk using the service. Service is identical to that used in NZ, often the same radio gear, but also in Malaysia, PNG and Pacific islands etc. Many homes do use the 27Mhz CB etc 11m bands, more for DX and ranged local contacts. Here, our CB Class License will upgrade to accept FM mode and in all likelihood CTCSS/DCS function, to mirror US upgrade of its CBRS. NZ is part of the same "Standard", and change in AUS will likely automatically reflect in NZ. NZ has a specific 26Mhz 40 channel allocation between 26.330Mhz Ch 01 to 26.770Mhz being Ch 40, modes are AM & SSB, but will likely accept FM with the class License upgrade. AM call is 15 26.500Mhz, and their road channel is 11 26.450Mhz. The use of CTCSS on CB FM is terrific for Homebase, you set a code, even with the radio squelch OFF, it stays dead quite UNLESS it received the code. Makes for a nice quite home, free of random carriers breaking squelch, driving households tempers:-)

[@paulethier3416]

It sounds like a great system. Thanks for sharing this info with us. We just got FM CB here 2 years ago. I'm going to try it in a couple weeks for the first time in 30 years.

[@manandatractor]

Some of that other chit chat you mentioned probably came from FRS radios... that's the bubble wrap cheapo radios you see in the sporting goods store and elsewhere that use some of the same frequencies as GMRS. We have a local motel that housekeeping uses FRS to get their chores done and some of our utility crews working out on the roadway uses them as well. They are low wattage and don't require licensing as a GMRS user does. I've come to the realization that GRMS is useful for interpersonal communication and you will rarely find anyone that just wants to rag chew. My area has a fairly active 11 meter (CB) contingent that will chat with you occasionally when they aren't running skip.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. I’m finding the same with GMRS. I’m doing that same route in a couple weeks and I’m going to run a CB and see what happens.

[@the-vo3ht]

I did a trip from west MI to central South Dakota in September and again in November. Had my BTech GMRS Pro scanning for some of the journey. In September I picked up a couple guys chatting somewhere southwest of Chicago while I was on I-80, but other than that, nothing. I'm still glad to have the radio as an alt means of reaching out if needed, but yeah, not a lot of casual conversation on the highways.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing your experience. I’m going to give CB a try in two weeks when I do the same trip again.

[@cucvfarmer]

I live in West Michigan. I have 2 Baofeng gm-15 pro ht units. On channel 16 I can pick-up a repeater in Grand Rapids and listen on conversations.

[@scottcharleslumix]

I recently got my callsign and a TIDRadio H3, should be here (Amazon) today around 1800. cannot wait test it out and am glad I purchased it for mainly emergency comms. I plan on buying more and am prepping as we speak for the chinese and T ists to come and mess up my day, (thanks uncle joe)

[@paulethier3416]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing and be safe out there.

[@timtaylor8557]

It varies wildly by area. In Sarasota County where i live there are quite a few users. Most of us are using repeaters most of the time simply because they are there and give much further range. If you want to maximize your chances of being able to reach someone or a distant repeater, get a high gain antenna (5db+) and a radio with as close to 50 watts that you can afford.

[@paulethier3416]

That sounds awesome. We have nothing but mountains around here and no repeaters for GMR us it’s kind of frustrating. But I’m hoping to build out and install my own repeater. Maybe next year. Thanks for sharing. Thanks for commenting.

[@seewaage]

That makes sense. Here in Arizona, the only other people I've heard on the road are groups of people communicating between cars. And I have used it with family members for the same reason.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for sharing and commenting

[@robertodwyer2979]

GMRS is in its infancy still as it grows in popularity you might see GRMS radios mounted next to your cb radio if I could drive I would have both in a car ,truck or motor home

[@krivolavek]

Drove from northern part of Nebraska to Branson Missouri I talked to many people. I have found all the repeaters programmed them in.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing this. That is good to hear

[@hockeyplayah7912]

Paul, tried the same up here in NH and don't get a lot of mobile traffic. In the winter I pick up some plow companies in what sounds like Townsend/Fitchburg and I must be catching them on a repeater. Used to pick up some box stores but not hearing much lately either. I use the handhelds up in the White Mountains when we don't have cell signal. Keep the faith it will come slowly

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it

[@10minutenewhampshirebreak77]

NH. Here also, I’ve connected to two repeaters in southern NH. And I very rarely hear anything, I try channel 19 while traveling, I’ve never heard any chatter, ever, in the past two years.

[@herkimeratrandom5772]

I have Midland GMRS radio like you and Midland FMRS radios. I do hear supermarkets on the GMRS on there sometimes. I have been able to make contact with people about 55 mile away sometimes. Some say if it is good and some clouds of atmospheric pressure that can carry the waves some time further, not for sure though. Im not an expert but am still learning.

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for commenting. Yeah there is a lot to learn for sure. Im always learning something new. Line of sight seems to be the biggest factor for me in my area because of the mountains.

[@libertyroads7342]

I've had similar experience. I use HAM, GMRS, FRS, and CB sometimes. Just part of the hobby. It seems that the off-road community has bought in on GMRS for the most part. Highway or freeway is still mostly CB. HAM has plenty of repeaters nationwide, especially if you get into the digital side. If you get an Open Spot connected to the hotspot on your smartphone, you can join chat rooms. A few of those rooms are dedicated to freeway travel. But then you're dependent on your phones data connection. Still, it's a fun option for most areas.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. I agreed, its fun to have all of these options.

[@jessecondit2211]

I'm a driver, here's what's going on. We use cell phones to kill time with our friends, but when weather or construction slows us down we go back to channel 19. CB is not dead! Heck they just added FM to the new radios. Hope this helps! I was gifted some Cobra walkie talkies trying to learn about these. Pretty fun 👍

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment and for sharing. When we traveled, we didn’t have any bad weather any construction issues or any bad accidents so there was no chatter at all on the CB. That confirms your experience. Good luck with the walkie-talkies have fun.

[@thebugg333]

I must live in a repeater rich area in the Midwest, I need to appreciate being able to talk on a large linked network across multiple states. My tiny repeater works for me, and I keep it parked on a Texas network with plenty of traffic using a different linking network. I can travel 1-300 miles and have access to GMRS repeaters easily in multiple states....that being said when it comes to simplex I only hear stores and kids. Indiana has simplex nets, no one in my area cares for them because they are not in the middle of nowhere Indiana.

[@paulethier3416]

That sounds like a fantastic system. For me to use repeaters on that trip I need access to at least 5 repeaters a long the way. All with different frequencies and PL codes. I just tried simplex on this trip and was very disappointed. I’m doing that trip again in a couple weeks and I’m going to try a CB radio this time. Thanks for the comment.

[@richards1191]

Interesting I know of no repeater system here in Wisconsin at least in north central Wisconsin. Most people here either use high power (100 watts plus on CB) or do like I did and get ham radio license. We have plenty of 2m repeaters!

[@linuspoindexter106]

We tried using GMRS radios (Midland) when we moved cross-country in a two-car convoy. One car was a Ford CMax Energi plug-in hybrid. Standing still was fine, when rolling down the road the qrm was so bad the radios were almost useless.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for sharing this information. QRM I’m guessing is electronic noise?

[@linuspoindexter106]

@@paulethier3416 Yep.

[@stevenemert837]

@@paulethier3416 Yeah. Look on Wikipedia for "Q code". QRM is man-made interference, QRN is natural or atmospheric interference.

[@papotorres9064]

For convoy cb made emergency cb radios that come complete ready to use in the car , the brand FOX made a nice one with an external mic that could still be found on ebay, market place , or Mercari. www.google.com/search?q=fox+emergency+cb+radio&oq=fox+&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCAgDEEUYJxg7MgYIABBFGDkyBggBEEUYPDIGCAIQRRg8MggIAxBFGCcYOzIGCAQQBRhAMhMIBRAAGIMBGJECGLEDGIAEGIoFMhUIBhAuGEMYxwEY1AIY0QMYgAQYigUyEAgHEAAYkQIYsQMYgAQYigUyEggIEC4YQxjHARjRAxiABBiKBTINCAkQABiDARixAxiABNIBCDU2MjVqMGo0qAIAsAIA&client=ms-android-tmus-us-revc&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8#vhid=20683095078580459-16-4071192616619995440--0-0&vssid=uvpv-713&piu=ps:2

[@ppastoris]

A solution for that could be a digital 900 MHz ISM radio, like the Motorola DTR series.

[@brucesteele3052]

Question is: Should GMRS replace CB Radio. Moreover, you will likely spend much more time on air with amateur radio.

[@JohnMurrayOP]

GMRS is active here in Houston. We have a statewide repeater network that also covers much of Louisiana. A small donation of $25/annually gives you the tones and a node on the network. When I tune in to channel 19 anywhere in the Houston Area, all I hear is static. The range on some of the repeater sites is pretty impressive, About Fifty miles from Downtown Houston. Many of the repeaters are connected to places like Milwaukee and Tampa too. About 40% of the users are mobile and the rest are at home.

[@paulethier3416]

I’m not familiar with nodes but I’ve used repeater and that network sounds awesome.

[@Texas12valve]

CB is extremely common in my area. I cant go into town without seeing 3 pickups with them. I always can get someone. Id like to get GMRS but seems pointless right now

[@paulethier3416]

Unless you have a purpose and someone to talk to GMRS is tough. I’m gonna try a couple local GMRS repeaters around here and see what that looks like.

[@Texas12valve]

@paulethier3416 yes. GMRS repeaters would be a good option in you're interested in that. I'm talking about strictly highway driving

[@papotorres9064]

Cb rules if you want to hear and talk to people. Unit 21 ch 23 Brooklyn NY

[@Texas12valve]

@papotorres9064 Yeah, the skip is crazy right now. Working on a base station for in the house

[@paulethier3416]

@@Texas12valve I’m getting CB skip from Tampa up here in MA. 2hrs ago rocking the meter crystal clear.

[@snowdiann]

GMRS is popular in the off-road Community but most of the time if someone's really close, I use the low channels.

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for leaving a comment. We are usually up around channel 15-18 in simplex. Ch 19 & 21 on repeater.

[@unknownhandle]

Alot of traffic on Channel 18 here in western WA. Also, I would try scanning for more traffic.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for sharing. Its kinda dead around here.

[@thetravi1348]

GMRS is blowing up! I got GMRS so I could transmit while studying for my ham. I ended up getting my ham but 90% of my time on the radio is GMRS. So many repeaters in MO that I can travel and just switch repeaters and always be able to hit one. My club has 2 repeaters that reach from Jeff to halfway to KC. If you plan right I bet you could find repeaters on your next trip all the way to your destination and back. MyGMRS is awesome.

[@yudelrox]

@@thetravi1348 I have the app but I live on the north side of Chicago. Very little GMRS here but plenty of ham. There's two meter 1.25 meters, 73cm. I find their nets boring and I usually hear the same few people blabbing on about nothing. Maybe they mention their equipment some of the time but it's usually just a check in. CB is the exciting wild west of RF. there's no two ways about it

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. I use the GMRS app and have access to about 5 repeaters. My longest contact has been 77 miles away. Thanks for the comment.

[@Number4lead]

Cb is okay in some applications, but on foot with walkie talkies, gmrs and even frs beats CB simply because CB walkie talkies use more batteries for similair applications, and the batteries die much faster. And frs/gmrs radios are way more compact and easier to lug around.

[@paulethier3416]

Not to mention you need a really big antenna to get any range.

[@JWimpy]

Interesting. I was just thinking though. Many states have outlawed the use of cell phones while driving but I have never heard of any bans on CB or HAM radio use while driving.

[@paulethier3416]

Me neither but it’s the government so there’s probably some loophole.

[@paulethier3416]

It’s the government so there’s probably some loophole. Thanks for commenting.

[@papotorres9064]

You don't have to dial anything, so we will be fine . Cb Rules .

[@richards1191]

Half duplex which sends communication in one direction only. Meaning you have to un key the radio to hear the other party. (Ham or cb). Full duplex is what cell phones use means as it says you can talk and hear at same time which has a proven track record at causing accidents while driving!

[@matteomottola556]

PTT (push-to-talk) is not illegal in any state. You are free to go.

[@bwoodfishing]

Here in NC, trying to have random highway conversations with other drivers is frustrating because no one is out there listening. There's pretty good repeater traffic though. GMRS is great for family & friends, but I have better success on HAM if I just want to chit chat with strangers.

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for commenting.

[@metaglypto]

I live close to a freeway, and often, two or three times a day, hear people chatting about "that river", the Columbia, and "that dam", McNary Dam, and asking questions and such. I will sometimes chime in with answers to questions they pose. That said, GMRS traffic is *NOTHING* like the heydays of CB's, where they write songs and stuff. It would be great if there was one or two channels reserved mainly for emergencies and/or travel.

[@commontater652]

462.675 with tone 141.3

[@ShoMoto-ko1ix]

I'm curious Paul. I have the same Astatic SWR meter. I noticed that when you set the mark with the dial, you went all the way to the power mark at the end of the scale. In the instructions it states to go to the SWR mark which is at the midpoint at 12 o'clock. Which one of us is wrong. The instructions aren't clear. Thanks for the video.

[@paulethier3416]

I’m not sure. You are correct the instructions were a bit unclear so I watch a KZbin video on how to use it and that’s how they use it in the video that I watched. So I could have been doing it wrong. I had a new radio with a new antenna and a new SWR meter and the SWR level was acceptable so I never gave it a second thought.

[@ShoMoto-ko1ix]

Go all the way to the mark on the extreme right side of the meter to calibrate. The SWR logo at the midpoint is just to identify what type of meter it is. The instructions are poor. Check out KZbin videos on how to adjust SWR. Everyone calibrates at the extreme right side mark. Hope this helps.

[@albing1397]

So many repeater operators use "secret" DPL (Digital PL) due to multiple local repeaters on the same channel. The receive and transmit DPL are often different also. Midland does not allow "split" DPL, either. So if you set a transmit DPL to trip the repeater, your receive DPL must match. Chances are the repeater set a different DPL on his transmit, and you won't hear the repeater. In the ham world, we match the PL's, so you can select your transmit PL just by hearing the repeater. If you are traveling, and not using a repeater, make sure you are transmitting on the simplex, not the RP (repeater) frequency.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the great feedback. There is only one repeater I use that has split tones. It’s not that popular so it’s not a huge deal.

[@papotorres9064]

This is very important, that's why I don't recommend Gmrs to new users , for long rides just do the CB setup I mentioned before. You'll be happy you did . Unit 21 ch 23 . Hope to catch you on roads airwaves.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. I'm doing the CB thing in a couple weeks on the same trip. We will see how it goes. @@papotorres9064

[@patrickkelly9721]

I drive AZ to KS & back every week. I have both CB & GMRS. I occasionally hear CB chatter, once every week or so. Substantially less on GMRS

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for sharing and commenting

[@jamesblack449]

I use both GMRS and CB radio II have a Midland mini GMRS mobile radio in my Dodge Grand Caravan and a Midland CB in the same vehicle I prefer GMRS although I've been a CBer since 1981 I use CB for road Trips where I live there are not many CB'ers to talk to anymore GMRS is quiet but still a great radio to have I think in the future GMRS WILL replace CB because once you get your license you are able to run upto 50 watts of power which is what is built into a lot of gmrs radios.If you do use GMRS watch out for channels 18&20 they are Emergency Channels

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment.

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 Your Welcome You may find repeaters on the upper channels but you'll have to set it on your radio

[@rawlinharringtonke8tiq837]

CB is still very strong. CB gets out so much better VS GMRS.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for leaving a comment. I don’t have much experience with CB but I’m gonna do this trip again in December and I’m gonna take a CB with me this time and see how we do.

[@ericblair3009]

SOme places DO use gmrs..... how much IDK SE WY I scan a lot of bands and some of the truckers are making use of CH 19 on gmrs, most are still on CB19 -- we now monitor both [cb & gmrs] and we have heard several truckers on 2M HAM.... so it seems to be spotty ... You may want to have both in your vehicles around town and on trips.

[@paulethier3416]

We have no repeaters in my area. For me to go to Buffalo again i need to access 5 repeaters. I’m going to try CB next when I go back in a couple weeks.

[@markaycock9835]

I was planning on getting one for hiking. If you come across a snakebite victim or heatstroke, I thought it might be useful.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes I think it would be useful, especially if there are repeaters in the area. Thank you for leaving a comment.

[@amels4620]

Uhhh you made a wrong assessment on uhf frequencies. Vhf is mainly line of sight (with exception being during good propagation). Under similar conditions, uhf will always exceed vhf as it can penetrate directly thru mountainous or hilly terrain or even city buildings depending upon air cracks in infrastructure. I would say it would be best to travel with gmrs, murs, and a tweeked cb radio; and if shi$ were to hit the proverbial fan and suddenly warp over to some Walking Dead scenario you would be in good shape. Especially if you have all the different antenna setups, including random wire, extra power cables and fuses, and most certainly batteries to power each device.

[@goodoz9942]

GMRS is for people who take their friends with them, IMO. It's great for traveling caravans, hunters, families who disperse at the destination (when you turn the kids loose at the amusement park, beach, ski mountain, campground, etc.). You must identify with your callsign which usually keeps the conversation polite. CB is still best for driving when you're the only radio operator in your group. The problem with CB is (still) it's sometimes offensive for some people or inappropriate for young ears...again, IMO.

[@paulethier3416]

I agree. I’m uploading a video about CB right now. Thanks for commenting and sharing.

[@mackspubliclandhuntingoutd6715]

its going to be a LOOOOONG time before GMRS replaces CB on the road. IF you want to keep in touch with truckers and a few other people you definitely need a CB. If you are traveling in a group of cars that is where you need GMRS.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. I totally agree.

[@indridcold8433]

No radio service replaces another radio service, they all have their niche. On can partake from just one, from some, or from all.

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for commenting. I agree but I had people telling me that CB was dead and GMRS was the way to go when traveling so I tried it and clearly it didn’t work out so I agree with you that all radio service have different pluses and minuses. Thank you for sharing.

[@River5190-Actual]

GMRS/FRS is used more as a travel group service meaning a convoy of campers to stay in touch. You won't even hear anyone on GMRS Emergency so if you have an emergency be sure to have a cellphone. GMRS/FRS is also more used in Campgrounds, at resorts, at amusement parks, at the lake and by off road groups and bigfoot hunters. The CB is still king of the interstate.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes I think you’re spot on. It sounds like most people agree with that. Thanks for commenting.

[@forgottenamericana]

The lifeblood of what made CH19 on CB (27MHz) work was truckers. Sadly even on CB much less truckers are on the radio. Many of them are using smartphones for traffic info. Some newer trucks the carriers aren’t even installing radios in them anymore. So getting them to migrate to GMRS I feel might never happen. If GMRS CH19 is going to take over you need the trucking industry for it to work. Sure many radio nerds will want this to happen, but this will require nothing short of a paradigm shift to pull off. I travel a lot across the country in my RV and I have both CB and GMRS radios and I have gotten more use with the CB and almost zero on GMRS when it comes to highway advisories and detour info. Just two days ago I found info on the 1radio from truckers on CB19 what the best route around a serious accident on I-81 in Pennsylvania. What little out there is using radios they still are on CB and the radio fanatics you’ll find on ham or GMRS frequencies.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing. Good information.

[@adambatchelder4121]

Unless you program in repeaters all along your trip gmrs is mostly dead for road trips. Cb and ham are more useful. A few hundred watts of cb with a properly tuned antenna will get you a long way.

[@paulethier3416]

Agreed. Thanks for commenting.

[@devilsatan2973]

A few hundred watts of CB? Really? Very illegal friend! Now in ham radio, that's different! Very different services, with different rules. Just a thought!

[@papotorres9064]

You got that right .

[@miker8379]

Some are using a HT app I think it is in conjunction. Some are on the ZELLO app but it’s dying also. The skip talkers keeps the Cb alive especially lately. I don’t have a gmrs license and can’t see any reason to get one.

[@paulethier3416]

I use the Zello but not familiar with the HT app.

[@miker8379]

@@paulethier3416 the ht app is a way to link gmrs to the internet. It was first for a particular radio It’s hard to figure out the app. Not very user friendly

[@rpcomms1]

Wont replace cb just complement it due to the different bands and terrain it can handle vs uhf. I run fm cb+ctcss & voip gateways. As now there if far more support of ctcss sub tone on sets coming out now. Uhf for line of sight semi secure voice. Gsm Zello ptt voip system and Bluetooth remote ptt switches in car. So you get best of all three systems,i would never rely on just one system only. All depends on your communication requirements at end of day,what works for some,maybe not ideal for others. Enjoyed the vid 👍

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing all of this information

[@rpcomms1]

@@paulethier3416 no problems Paul, President have released ctcss DCS sub tones CB sets now on FCC approved radios now more to come 2024. Ctcss on FM CB is a game changer in my eyes ,here in UK we had fm mode a while but it lacked ctcss CB sets. Now we have them makes band much more useful for personal Comms.👍

[@paulethier3416]

@@rpcomms1 i’ve been looking at the new CB with the FM and the CTSS. I was thinking about getting the president Randy, portable radio. Do you have any thoughts on that?

[@terrybreitenfeldt75]

I think issue is that many people want GMRS to be something it wasn't designed for, causing some to get disappointed when nobody will talk to them. There isn't really a single GMRS frequency (like CB 19), consistantly monitored by users accross the U.S.. Using a GMRS repeater "might" capture a few more contacts, but you need to have all the repeaters along your route pre-programmed in the radio, then manually change channels as you drive from one coverage area to another. This kinda requires that you know the area. Even if someone hears you, doesn't mean they will respond. GMRS wasn't really intended to be a hobby service, or a place to make random contacts. CB or Ham Radio works better in this situation. I think you'll find that GMRS is mostly used by people that already know each other; i.e. Family Members, Clubs, Service organizations, Farms, etc. For a travel radio you'd probably have better luck with a CB. Now that the FCC has allowed FM mode on CB. Seem like it would be more enjoyable to use.

[@davidbird7540]

Did,You Ever Think Of Using A GMRS ,Magnet Mount Antenna On The Roof Of Youre Vehicle,?????

[@paulethier3416]

That’s what I had. It was the little mag1/4 wave that came with radio.

[@michaelbrown4420]

They group you heard going to PA was probably using a ctc or "privacy" code.

[@paulethier3416]

That’s what I was thinking but I didn’t have the PL code. Thanks for commenting.

[@Guitarzan42]

I've heard some truckers are switching to FM C.B. I rarely hear any local chatter on channel 19. There is a lot of long distance skip from more powerful radios far away.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. I'm just now getting back into CB radio. You are 100% correct about the skip. I'm hearing guys 1000 miles away on certain days.

[@KATONKA...]

Channel 19 WSHIT that little brown spot on your dial

[@greavous93]

LOL@ "expertly installed". More of draped, stuffed or "rigged" it under the seat.

[@paulethier3416]

I got a lot of negative comments about that. Thanks for having a great sense of humor.

[@zainthomas6113]

You gotta say Breaker Breaker one nine for a radio check!!! If you live in easter side use channel 17 If you live in central to western channel 19

[@paulethier3416]

I've never heard about ch17. Thanks for sharing that.

[@MichaelAMartin777]

Have you made any contacts since making the video, either mobile or at home? Thank you.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes, I have access to one distant repeater that can be tricky at times but I mostly run on simplex with other Jeeps. Repeaters, if you have any in your area are great. Thanks for commenting.

[@MichaelAMartin777]

@@paulethier3416 Sounds good, sir. Thank you.

[@andrewyoung-n8ary]

I thought “5309,” too. Ha.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. We got a lot of laughs out of that.

[@ddynoah9208]

I travel right much to the beach truck drivers don't use CBs Anymore. A lot of them say that's for the old-timers they have cell phones now. GMRs is the way to go

[@DanT271]

Tommy Tutone!

[@plugnalong2186]

I have not been able to get anyone on GMRS or FRS to come back to me. 11 Meter or CB as it's known, however, no problem getting someone to come back if I ask. It's like people on GMRS and FRS are plumb scared to talk to a stranger.

[@paulethier3416]

I haven’t tried CB radio yet but I agree with you on GMRS. Nothing but crickets. Thanks for leaving a comment.

[@calvingeisinger2639]

A lot of people using blister pack radios with their “privacy codes” won’t hear you if you don’t have the same privacy code programmed into your radio when you transmit. You don’t need a code to hear them, but you need the code for their radios for them to hear you. That’s why there is no such thing as privacy on those types of radios. My radios don’t need a code (but I can program it in if I want to), as I have to program all parameters, which means I can’t talk to the cheap radios that have preset codes because they can’t hear me, so of course they won’t talk to me because they don’t know I can hear them. I would say that at least 90% of the FRS/GMRS radios I see people using are those little cheapies with the preprogrammed and non-defeatable codes. Different manufactures will use different codes so not all of those radios will be able to talk to each other as well. That’s why I’ll take the more professional radios that are “blank slate” and program them for how I want them to operate.. No codes, talk to anyone with the same type of radio with no limiting codes.

[@devilsatan2973]

A lot of people anymore really aren't all that friendly in general, much less on radio! Even on the ham bands, I've heard such nonsense! There was a person passing through some years ago. Was using 2 meters to talk with someone from their hometown 100+ miles away. When they cleared, I jumped on to say "hey". I had heard that call before, but not talked to them. That's when this "ham" came back with "I don't talk to people on air that I haven't met in person FIRST!" Really? I was taught that we were to be the friendly type! So I just said hi, then by, and cleared. I've heard similar garbage on other ham bands as well sadly. So I don't bother to get on air as much anymore! Just not worth the time and effort! That's after spending 40 years messing with radio, in several flavors.

[@SwordslingerCustomHolsters]

I have a GMRS radio in my SUV and I use it often, but I have never heard any travel talk. Lots of CB though.

[@paulethier3416]

That exactly what we found. If your traveling CB is the way to go. Thanks for commenting.

[@Nick-gi6ym]

I think you didn’t install the radio correctly antenna and power. You should hook the power directly to the battery how about your antenna

[@paulethier3416]

The midland comes with a 12 volt plug and a mag mount antenna. I’m not sure how you mean direct to the battery? I will say there is about a 2 watt transmit power increase when the vehicle is running compared to just having the key on.

[@daviddurflinger3104]

Expertly mounted in your car? Ya right.😂😂😂

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for noticing the humor. I got a lot of flack from people that told me what a lousy job I did. Lot of uptight people.

[@ibrahimatiyeh4589]

One wise man said you need to use what other people have .Gmrs use FM not Am so that make it clear but AM travel farther .airlines airport use AM .but any way new CB now use AM AND FM plus side band 12 watt .CB can com with so many kind of antena . Now if you travel with groups Gmrs is better , you can share the kids in few channels called frs .Now CB comes with 4 watt power Gmrs can have 50 watts .if you luck you connect to a repeater. But not all stats have too many most of them still profit or personal need permetion ,and most the time close .ham radio has too many repeater, but not too many people like to take the test..so if you one you can not talked to your wife or son until they pass the test .Gmrs good for the who'll family. Try the new cobra CB AM FM and Bluetooth you hook the Mike in usb and the radio any where plus weather canals . Good luck with your next trip.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting.

[@rEdf196]

I live in west Canada, GMRS is very limited with just 2 watts max using tiny handhelds . usually used by stores, mall workers, parents with young kids, I traveled the roads in my area and the results are the same. CB radio is even worse than GMRS . CB use has completely fallen off over here since the end of the 1990's. Unlike GMRS, I could travel the roads, towns and cities all over the west coast of my province and I wouldn't hear a single CB radio transmission.

[@paulethier3416]

FRS in the US is 2watts. For the same uses you gave examples of. Thanks for commenting and sharing this information

[@yudelrox]

I have gmrs in Chicago. Ham is somewhat busy and gmrs is dead. Every truck stop like loves pilot ranger whatever carries cb equipment. I've tried exactly what you've been doing. It's depressingly dead.

[@paulethier3416]

yeah, I was a bit disappointed. Thank you for commenting.

[@yudelrox]

@@paulethier3416 better to just get a CB. There may be some profanity but it will be lively.

[@audiomaker1]

The thing is, it’s almost pointless to carry a GMRS in addition to a CB even if the idea is to communicate with your convoy. CB works just fine and you can make contacts all day long with it on the road….especially in an emergency. The only advantage to GMRS over CB is the slightly better sound quality of FM vs AM and the use of repeaters (and a 50w max on mobile units), but there really aren’t many people roaming with 50w GMRS units on the highways. It will be a long long time before GMRS replaces CB on the roads…maybe never.

[@audiomaker1]

P.S. FCC recently approved FM on Citizen Band and there are already FM units being shipped. This means that you can monitor 19 in AM to hear trucker traffic and switch to another channel on FM for higher audio quality comms to a someone you are traveling with. Put simply, GMRS really isn’t for random contacts.

[@paulethier3416]

Totally agree. I just wanted to try it and see if it was being used. And I did hear about the CB going over to FM which I think is pretty cool.

[@papotorres9064]

SO true. CB RULES

[@TheRaginghalfasian]

you need a magnetic sign or sticker, saying turn on your GMRS, while you are driving

[@paulethier3416]

Great idea!! Thanks for commenting.

[@republicridge5894]

Drove from Detroit to Houston and back, only 1 bear report

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for leaving a comment. That's amazing and kind of disappointing.

[@hacktheplanet4636]

U should of just installed a cb radio dude that's what's its used for traveling. Gmrs not so much did you have radio on scan mode?.

[@paulethier3416]

I just posted a video of traveling with a CB radio a couple days ago. I have both CB and GMRS radios.

[@tbo2341]

I'm a member of the gmrs Midwest link repeater system it is the best to use I live in Indiana I'm friends with repeater owners and they're all over the state of Indiana Illinois Minnesota Ohio New York Linked in Idaho LinkedIn with the Midwest for more information just get on my gmrs Midwest link repeater truckers that uses that to you need to program all these repeaters into your radio with permissions for their tones when you run out of one repeaters distance the other ones pick it up you need to get the information off of the Midwest link repeater system when you get connected give me a holler back here in Indiana wrqk 245 unit 5. I'm on the Connersville Indiana repeater and talk to all these states right here from my living room on my qyt 8900 mobile.

[@jackbatson8795]

I use gmrs and cb when traveling, key for gmrs, repeaters.

[@paulethier3416]

Agreed. I have access to a couple GMRS repeaters and its a game changer for sure. Just getting back into CB radio. I thought it was dead but boy was I wrong.

[@Rusted_Link]

I literally have a sticker for amateur band 146.52 and GMRS channel 19 on the back of my service vehicle and my personal vehicle and no one ever calls out to me.

[@paulethier3416]

Hmmm. I was going to do something like that but now maybe I won't. Thanks for sharing that.

[@ArndroidInc]

You’re more likely to have someone answer to if you put her on the radio.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. Maybe someday she will want to give it a try.

[@ArndroidInc]

@@paulethier3416 good luck😀

[@michaelroot6064]

What people don't realize is CB is not dead CB is a tool that truckers use to communicate with other truckers about road conditions stuff of that nature now if you got a cb and you're traveling and there's an accident and traffic at a stand still CB will come alive thats what its for

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. You are correct CB is alive and well.

[@seeharvester]

I'll field this question... The answer is no, GMRS does not replace CB. BTW, skip is rolling right now worldwide.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. The skip is awesome right now. I'm picking up people from 1200 miles away on CB.

[@Dolmdemon]

Truckers aren't using CB's much anymore either, most folks just have cell phones.

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for sharing you comment.

[@Zif-the-Old-Herring]

GMRS is great for arm farts between family members.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. Haven't done an arm fart in years 😂

[@edwinodus]

Number 2 is dump it in the trash

[@paulethier3416]

Thank you for commenting.

[@M21assult]

Most truck drivers aren’t running CB actively either. Gonna say 50-60% of trucks have them, 5% of trucks have them on at all times, 10% for traffic heavy areas, and most of them when in inclement weather. Too much foul mouthedry.

[@paulethier3416]

This is good to know. Thanks for sharing with us.

[@phillipnelson6076]

I had CB in my car before I retired. It's nor as active as the heyday years but truckers still use it to alert others about traffic. I did occassionally have a GMRS active. The band was dead. It's basically a system you use with friends. I did use GMRS fir travel many years ago to keep in touch with my daughters in another car (when roaming charges were expensive). Then there was only one conversation other than ours in a total of 26 travel hours.

[@eminence_front6043]

Basically GMRS is dead in my area. CB is always busy.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. I’m going to do the same trip in December this time I’m going to do it with a CB and will see how we make out with the CB radio.

[@donalderickson-si8ww]

no g m r s is another service with no test and I am linked in to 6 repeter's covering three county's CB is basikly radio to radio with a little more power I did 15 miles radio to radio on CB channels

[@jamesford7182]

Did you have an exterior antenna? If not, you were sitting in a Faraday cage.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes, we had a 1/4 wave magnetic mount on the roof

[@Knarf14]

Stay away from tristate area , you wont get a word in edge wise and channel 20 was always the travel channel as I remember it maybe it changed but thats what it was for last 20 years im licensed

[@jamesblack449]

It depends on your antenna as to how far you can transmit.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. Yeah that little mag mount was all I had. I was thinking about installing 102" whip on the Jeep to try that.

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 You won't be able to use it on GMRS It's for CB it's set up for 26-27 MHZ

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 102inch whip will NOT work on GMRS it is made for CB only but if you want a good antenna for your GMRS get the MXTA26 6db gain and the MXTA 12 Magnet mount you can get them from Midland they work perfect with your GMRS Radio.

[@endurofly]

SETI mission.

[@paulethier3416]

What is SETI?

[@endurofly]

@@paulethier3416 SETI (Search for extraterrestrial intelligence)

[@Max-kn9yi]

Yes and the cell phone replaces everything else.

[@paulethier3416]

I agree but in our area cell phone has a lot of dead areas. A two-way radio fills in a lot of gaps.

[@samenamenamesame2834]

GMRS is a lic required for use channels!!!! FRS is low power no lic needed.

[@paulethier3416]

Yes that's correct. Thanks for commenting.

[@shawnwade302]

Gmrs could replace CV but not enough truckers have them

[@bhamptonkc7]

I think some truckers use a chat channel they can access with there cell phones.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for sharing that. I wonder if it works in no cell phone areas?

[@bhamptonkc7]

@@paulethier3416 no this would be cell coverage only but it works much like CB with in coverage and can have many many channels that can be area specific. it is good to have as many options as possible.

[@paulethier3416]

Agreed, Thank you!!!@@bhamptonkc7

[@Hamdalorian]

Dont feel bad, i drive truck and nobody really talks on cb anymore either

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for the comment. I'm going to be trying CB in a couple weeks when I do that trip again.

[@papotorres9064]

Ch 19 full of truckers

[@bmflmf]

Give it time

[@paulethier3416]

For sure.

[@jamesblack449]

Truckers use CB Channel 19 Not many people use GMRS because you HAVE to have a license to use GMRS or pay heavy fines They don't want to pay $35 for 10 years most people use CB's when traveling on the highway and some quit using CB's due to fowel language etc.I heard what you said about CH.20 GMRS Ch18&20 are emergency Channels

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for sharing this information.

[@jamesblack449]

My pleasure@@paulethier3416

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 My pleasure Glad to help

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 Your Welcome

[@jamesblack449]

@@paulethier3416 My pleasure.

[@concrete981]

sounds like gmrs is a waste of time.😄

[@paulethier3416]

Only for traveling. If you have a group of friends or family and are traveling or hunting or whatever GMRS works great.

[@Peoplearesheeple]

Good video made me chuckle. I do have my GMRS license. I haven’t bought a radio yet.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. There are so many radios to choose from. Once you get a radio enjoy it. There are a bunch of not so great people you will run across. Pay no attention to them.

[@johnflesher7734]

Cell phones sound so much better instead all that static

[@sphincter6401]

Everyone is on their TwitPhones these days as they drive.

[@tripac3392]

As a truck driver even on CB radio there's not a lot of chatter but if there's a wreck that son of a gun will light right up

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting and sharing. I’m going to be trying CB soon.

[@timin770]

​@@paulethier3416Anytone AT6666 is my favorite right now

[@paulethier3416]

@@timin770 ok thanks I’ll check it out

[@Mr.NiceGuy80]

That's why they're called "backup radios". People only use them to ask why there is a back up.

[@Spartan_Jackal]

and then there's that one dude somewhere with a booster preaching on a sunday morning. That was crazy.

[@imagingconcepts]

Here in Washington State we have a whole series of repeaters on the west side of the state. A couple are located high in the mountains and offer coverage of 130 miles or so. I regularly communicate with general contacts, friends and coworkers not only from my mobile radio, but also from a HT. I spend a lot of time hiking the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula and from above 200p feet, I can easily reach friends in Seattle over 35 miles away on 5 watts.

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for leaving a comment and for sharing all of this information. We don’t have any repeaters in our area, but I do use repeaters, but they are on a fringe area for me. I do have access to a mountaintop site that I am looking to install a repeater, probably in the spring.

[@amels4620]

Yes, he can! I am Extra Class and have experienced similar results with a 5 watt radio.

[@kobolila-yt]

Good video. I'm in Western MA and new to GMRS but have been using a CB for decades. Over the last 9 years we have traveled the Pike every couple months to take our daughter for doctors appointments in Boston. In that time the CB chatter has died down drastically; we have completed whole trips hearing nothing at all: no replies to road reports, no reports made by other drivers, not even drivers talking back and forth in the rest stops. I was a young teen in the 70's when CB's were huge; its a whole different world now. FWIW, if you haven't found it yet, there is a GMRS repeater on Mt. Tom

[@paulethier3416]

Hi. Thanks for commenting. Yes I am part of the Holyoke repeater group. I don't get over there on that side of the mountain much but on good days I can hear them at my house, but I can't talk to them. Someday I feel like CB might comeback. Its to simple of technology for it not too.

[@uni-byte]

This is good news. It means the GMRS frequencies are open. Great for folks at an event (as long as you avoid the FRS frequencies) or out in a hunting party, etc..

[@paulethier3416]

Thanks for commenting. Yes I believe that’s exactly what GMRS was meant for so that is good news.

[@living2ndchildhood598]

I use CB for situational awareness while travelling. We use GMRS for convoy comms while travelling in groups.

[@paulethier3416]

That sounds like a great way to use both radios. Thanks for sharing.