Three Types Of Radios You Need Right Now. Radio Readiness 101. How To keep Informed These Days.

[@GOBRAGH2]

I went to a town in 2014 where there was no cell coverage and every business had a CB radio in addition to a landline phone. The local diner had advertisements on the placemats and listed what CB channels they used. I couldn't believe it. It inspired me to get a CB radio.

[@mustangdemon87]

Must have been near the sky "ears" dead zone.

[@Jcrpdx]

Where's that town?

[@mustangdemon87]

@@Jcrpdx the NRQZ is zone 3 and zone 4 of a electronic limited zone located in west Virginia. Zones 3 and 4 cover 13000 square miles. Within 10 square miles no electronic transmitting devices are aloud including gasoline engines.

[@Jcrpdx]

@@mustangdemon87 Facinating. Thank you.

[@stayinganonymous.3172]

​@@mustangdemon87 Green Bank Telescope?

[@outbackeddie]

Back in the early 70s (1970 or 1971 I think), I took a solo cross country trip from California to Oklahoma. I had a CB radio at the time and I had a great time talking with my fellow travelers along the way. I got information on where to eat, where to get gas, where the cops were hiding out lookin for speeders, etc. I had a great time and I will always remember that trip.

[@blackpepperprepper2025]

Great video! I am an Amateur radio operator, NY2CW. I agree with your selection of radio types and give my friends the same advice. Thanks for this video!

[@davebrown3117]

I have a shortwave radio that also picks up longwave beacons from airports around me. Why are they useful? They have weather reports for aircraft landing and take-off and include weather warnings where necessary. Even if they don't have much air traffic at night, if any, they can be emergency landing field for aircraft in distress. Other radios also include VHF/UHF radio bands for aircraft beacons as well. The weather warnings may include cyclone/hurricane and tornado warnings as well as rain/hail warnings. Shop around.

[@rEdf196]

Here on the west coast of Canada VHF Marine is also a good option since it pretty much replaced AM CB over here for coastal communications.

[@joshwelner1951]

same east coast Maine works ok not great up in the woods too

[@joannc147]

Sadly VHF marine is illegal to use on land (in US).

[@spankyharland9845]

for the basic non-radio person- a solar powered/dynamo crank survival radio that has AM,FM & NOAA weather frequencies. FRS radio for every family member. I would also recommend a good source of battery power pack. most folks have no clue on how to listen to or operate a short wave- and it would not help them if they had a local SHTF moment. Also invest in an AR15 just in case someone wants to take your radios away.

[@PupitoManuel]

Great info. Short and to the point. All three are the best option for everyone to have, even of it’s in a closet collecting dust. At the end of the day they WILL be worth every penny when the SHTF.

[@reducecotwo]

A Fire and Police scanner is always a good idea and a hand crank am/fm radio just in case you run out of batteries.

[@josephvoytus3694]

​@@reducecotwo most fire & police are now digital. Digital scanners are definitely not cheap. Nice to have, but probably lower on the list due to price.

[@sonlitlayman7760]

In 1978 I owned forty acres about fourteen miles from Snowflake, AZ. There was no electricity, no water service, and no telephone. I had a generator for my electricity, a well with a windmill for my water, and a CB radio for my telephone. I had a base station at the house and a CB installed in my truck. It all worked fine and we got along really well without any of the other services.

[@FarpointFarms]

That sounds like a fantastic life- simple

[@rodclark4485]

Are you still there? Living off the grid??

[@josephvoytus3694]

That really does sound perfect.

[@CHart-zi9lk]

Good Job. Been watching a lot of these type videos, and I will say that you come across as a reliable and trustworthy guy, like someone's cousin everyone like. Keep up the good work.

[@williammcintyre1054]

I am glad I kept scrolling . You hooked me . Straight to point and it's what I needed to find. Honesty. Thank you sir.

[@FarpointFarms]

I am glad I could help!

[@ericdee6802]

Excellent tutorial Erik. If I may add, having a couple extra FM' radios laying around would also be handy to have to pass out the neighbors during the event of an emergency would be smart, having a few or a group of neighbors assigned to specific tasks in the event of a disaster, is key. I have a trauma kit (first aid) which I put together, it contains everything, including some items for field surgery, I e. Sutures, scalpels etc... Although iam by means no Surgeon, but my Neighbor is a licensed DR. and these items in the right hands can save someone's life. Although to some the idea mentioned above may sound far fetched to some, but when an emergency arrives, it usually arrives uninvited and unexpected.🇺🇸✌️

[@totallyfrozen]

I guess I don’t understand. It sounds expensive. You buy radios to pass out to people who didn’t buy themselves a radio, and you have a medical kit that exceeds your knowledge and training so that you can pass it to a “DR” (medical doctor?) in an emergency? You’re assuming a medical doctor with emergency medical skills wouldn’t already have a medical kit? Are you going to provide food, water, electricity, and security to your neighbors too? It sounds extremely expensive and if you’re dealing with people who didn’t prepare even basic stuff like buying a battery powered radio, then you’re dealing with the type of people who will consume ALL your resources to the best of their abilities. If I lived next to a couple of kids who just graduated high school, sure, I’d assume they are naive and didn’t know to be prepared. Adults with families could have prepared.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I just stumbled on your channel. Great work spreading the word on essential comms. I highly recommend getting into amateur radio for those who don't mind a little studying to get licensed. The emergency communications capabilities you get are worth the investment in time and money.

[@Multiplemom3452]

Unfortunately I live in a building that does not allow antennas so using my CB radio is out ugh. I do have a short wave radio. So that’s good.

[@tjlovesrachel]

@@Multiplemom3452 where there’s a will there’s a way….

[@stahpit1971]

@@Multiplemom3452 LOts of us have antenna restrictions but we find ways it's fun to find ways to get around the overlords. Lots of videos on stealth antennas if your interested.

[@johncrouch8988]

If there’s a national emergency 🚨 no one is going to worry about if you have a license or not🤷‍♂️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@johncrouch8988 That's true, but operating amateur radios effectively requires practice and investment in real gear (not an inexpensive Baofeng HT). You can't practice/train during non emergency windows. It's a bit like buying a firearm, keeping in the box, never training with it, and thinking you'll be an effective high speed operator the one time you need it.

[@dtvjho]

1:42 I instantly recognized that one! I bought one of those from Radio Shack new. The telescoping antenna screws into a port right on the top, it's missing on the one you showed. The switch in frequencies you mention is usually around dusk. If I remember right, during the daytime the higher channels (above 13,000 kHz) work well, and they propagate over the horizon until dusk. That's when the lower channels open up, and stations switch to take advantage. Schedules and channel guides do exist, as you mention. BTW, shortwave signals are AM but are sent on channels much higher than the top channel on a regular AM radio, 1700. To give an example, a normal AM station in Philly would be 1060 KYW. That channel is 1060 kHz = 1.060MHz. Channels on shortwave go much higher; shortwave stations can be at 4500 or 8000 (8000kHz = 8MHz). That Radio Shack unit tops out at 29,990!

[@kjelene]

Are you ok from the hurricane? Good thing you have the radios!!!!

[@FarpointFarms]

We did OK, many in our community lost everything. The radio was the only thing working

[@michaeldvorak8140]

Some of the best suggestions I’ve heard. No high expense but a good combination of radios to have when the need arises. And a bit of fun using them.

[@totallyfrozen]

Very good video! Good selections. I agree that a dedicated NOAA radio isn’t really necessary because there is a plethora of AM/FM radios that include a NOAA band. Not all, but most, weather events are not so sudden that you need alerts (tornadoes being one exception). Things like storms and hurricanes approach slowly and can be seen, usually, DAYS ahead of time. So any radio with a NOAA band will work for that. When I lived in Alaska, back in the 90’s, CB was very popular and my friends and I used it daily. Cellphones have put CB out of sight/out of mind. When the cell services go down, having CB can be a real life saver. Be wise when you use it because it can also make you a target too. You’ll often be opening communications with total strangers who may be desperate for supplies and equipment. FRS is good too. In the 90’s I bought a pair of Uniden GMRS radios and used them for about 25 years before I learned that you’re supposed to have a license to use those bands. I assumed it was FRS. They aren’t the same. FRS is like CB and you don’t need a license. GMRS requires a cheap license (it lasts 10 years, I believe).

[@KeepItMowed]

I miss the old CB Radio days in Houston. Growing up I had a nice base set up and had one in the car. I would talk skip at night from the base station. As time went on and a lot of the old guys died off, there wasn't much activity.😟 I no longer have a cb. But after Hurricane Harvey and the big Texas freeze I've been considering it again. Thinking of building something with a punch behind it 😉. Great video and great ideas.

[@matthewkaler823]

Short wave has great Christmas music during the holidays. Am talk news gives great local news. I bought two world band radios for 100 bucks at a second hand shop.

[@alancaron984]

What frequencies?

[@buffyvanburen8688]

Great advice that's understandable for laypersons--and I thank you so much! Good backups for information and/or communication if anything goes awry, grid down, etc. You rock!

[@softmetals3702]

Off sub here but what a cool name Buffy van buren,

[@jayzsphotography6]

Thanks, I just bought a few CB's and installed them. The last time I had on in my vehicle was the year 2000. Glad to have one back in truck.

[@gone2dmtns]

While FRS radios are inexpensive and readily available from the hardware or sports store, a GMRS radio can be attached to a mobile or base station antenna and with the higher wattage (Handhelds up to 5 watts; Mobile up to 50 watts) be able to communicate over much longer distances or through a repeater. This is important in that SHTF scenario. Preparedness is golden. And yes, a FCC license is required to operate a GMRS radio but your immediate family can operate under your license.

[@chadwinford2560]

Thanks Eric for your time !

[@FarpointFarms]

No worries!

[@chadwinford2560]

I recently bought the president handheld cb because of your video on it, I’m slowly getting back into the hobby, the radio is awesome and I appreciate your knowledge on the topic, thanks again

[@dwighthitchens9838]

Great advice. Those are the three radios I have here on my coastal Virginia homestead. Thanks

[@Ks1bigdad783]

New listener. Liked today’s vid. Looking to gain more knowledge on comms for everyday readiness and/or shtf. Thx and looking forward to the next video.

[@FarpointFarms]

Stay tuned!

[@jordanmatte1144]

I bought a Yaesu FT3D handy talkie.. it is an awesome unit, does more things than I even know how to use yet, overall great grab and go unit, not cheap, but could save your life.

[@ratherbewargaming3753]

Great video. I was literally just talking to a buddy about what radios he should have at his place, for emergencies.

[@FarpointFarms]

These are the ones to get! Shortwave is #1 for getting info, and CB is #1 for trading it. FRS is #1 for keeping in touch at close range.

[@Tsch6373]

I'm 2/3rds of the way ready where communications is concerned. I have an HT, a shortwave radio with ssb, need to get another CB. I used CBs in the 70s and 80s both at home and otr as a charter bus driver. Retired now. Own a condo in an HOA which limits the ability to have outdoor antenna but using a wire extended near a window greatly enhances reception on shortwave. CB is line-of-site and the ham radio may depend on a local repeater. Thank you for this video, had forgotten about the CB.

[@madmax2069]

So far I have a Baofeng UV-5R with a Nagoya NA-771, and a bit of coax for a make shift external Antenna (using the NA-771), an Eton Elite Executive, and a Uniden 980SSB and a Antron 99, and a magnet mount antenna, I also want to get an HF Ham Radio. I like listening to ham bands so SSB was a requirement for my SW receiver. I've been listening to a bunch of CW, while the EEE doesn't have a CW mode, you can just use LSB or USB to be able to tune into a frequency that has people talking in CW and use the fine tuning to bring it in properly. you can also listen to the CB band. Going to also be buying a foldable solar panel, and a solar panel kit.

[@rachelcody3355]

awesome video, just found your channel and subscribed. I would add one more to the top 3, make it 4. A police scanner. You can hear all the local emergency traffic. Know where roads are blocked, hear calls as they come in.

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed. 4th is a police scanner, and 5th is a weather radio.

[@daviator4720]

Thanks for the video. Have all as listed. My Bearcat 980 does have weather as well. The SSB is quite entertaining in that I can sometimes pick up NC and SC randomly and other distant places. Weather and day or night quite listening varies greatly.

[@FarpointFarms]

The 980 is a great little radio!

[@jamesalles139]

I would add a fourth type, since a NOAA weather radio with the *Specific Area Message Encoding* (SAME) has alerts coded for your specific area. It may be appreciated more in 'tornado alley', but a tornado can pop up anywhere, and a severe thunderstorm is worthy of urgent preparation at times. thanks for the video!

[@FarpointFarms]

When we live near a nuclear reactor- we were given a NOAA radio to alert us in case of an emergency- The downfall is that it alerted us to every emergency (storms 40+ miles away) We turned it off more than we had it on.

[@jamesalles139]

@@FarpointFarms Yes. "All Hazards Radio"

[@alafenetre81]

Great video! With current events in the world, I think it's more useful than ever to be able to get information without the Internet and the traditional media. I find it a pity that so many SW stations have closed, though.

[@totallyfrozen]

I agree. When I look at the ongoing back n’ forth battles regarding censorship and/or the accusations of censorship, I think a campaign to revive SW radio listening is needed.

[@JoeG75]

Great advice, I've been wondering if a CB radio was still useful, I had one in my pick up in the 90s. Thank you, love your channel.

[@marcdemell5976]

I am sure that a CB is useful now like it was back then ,think about it . I am looking into getting a C.B. myself.

[@hermanfurlong8824]

I just got my old single side band cb radio out of the garage! Purchased a new cb antenna and going to put it up , if things go south in Ukraine it could go very bad quickly! I have thought about ham several times but never had time! If things go south I believe people will dig their old radios out and cb will be used around the country with the help of hams , cb and gmrs radio users!

[@Tina-ds3pp]

I'm old school and CB can go a long way if the conditions are right! My station routinely reaches stations across the country and when I'm lucky in other countries as well! Definitely the go to for emergencies!

[@ericsmith1801]

SSB CB could be used for cross country communication with a little help.

[@ericsmith1801]

SSB = Single Side Band. You sound like Donald Duck, but it has great range.

[@Tina-ds3pp]

@@ericsmith1801 that's true and funny

[@K-newborn]

how do i do what you do

[@glenmo1]

My recommendation for a newbie or a experienced radio operator for CB . I would recommend the cobra 79 ltd .. it's got one of the best receivers.. it's got noise blanker to cut off the static.. and a built-in SWR meter as it is important to get your antennas SWR correct to prevent transmitter damage and to get your signal out there

[@Robotechnology101]

Depends on the area of the US you are in regarding CB versus Ham for emergencies. Where I am in Southern California we have a large network of ham repeaters and alert radio amateurs who are involved with volunteer programs tied with our county's(San Diego) Sheriff's department. But in areas like you if there are more people who have CB than Ham then it would make sense to own a CB for that reason as well. Either way having a reliable means of communications in case of emergencies is very important.

[@hbirtt]

I was thinking the same thing. Seems a little over-simplified to say "lots of CBs sold. CB is best." The best radios are the ones with helpful people on the other end.

[@donnaphen503]

This is true , as me being a licensed ham for almost 50 years can attest to, but the drawback is the License. CB radio shines when it comes to being able to communicate locally to neighbors and family that live close by without requiring a license. Either way, both are great and I thank you for your input. Don, wb1o Greater Boston area

[@L337g4m3r]

The nice thing about CB is you can find decent ones dirt cheap on ebay and you don't need a license. Just grab one and go. Ham is a bit more work due to needing to mess with getting a license and higher cost of equipment. Then again ham has other benefits so I suppose it depends on how involved one wants to get into it.

[@realflyersrc4416]

There is both in that are. Lots of CB's. But information from a ham

[@deanfromromania]

This video has excellent information. I've been a shortwave junkie for almost 40 years, and it has never ceased to thrill me to find an international station I've not heard before. More so is hearing something from my home country of Canada being aired from another nation.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad to hear you liked it!

[@madmax2069]

Hearing a numbers station is pretty awesome and freaky.

[@heathwhittle4514]

Very informative! Nice video! So fun to hang out with you and Jenn last weekend!

[@FarpointFarms]

You too!!

[@KageShi]

I will always have a CB in my inventory. I have a dozen of them on the shelf in the garage. They range from regular factory ones to +100w barefoot ones for emergency broadcast use.

[@FrankLadd]

Great video. Around me a marine VHF is more popular than a CB. But you are really only allowed to monitor the VHF from your house not transmit unless you have a special license. These other radios make a lot of sense. I'll look into getting a four pack of FRS for my next hurricane crew. I like the usb charging idea. Also I need to look into the FM/AM/Short wave option and learn more about that. The only thing I disagree about is the weather radio; I listen to it often.

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Fun channel. Thanks. I think I need to find or buy some radios. Good excuse to tidy up/ downsize.

[@RockyMTHirvi]

In the last 2 years I've also studied for taken amateur radio (shortwave) Technician FCC license for VHF/UHF to connect to communicate on repeater in regional area. The General license allows communication to othe the shortwave radio operators around the world. It's been a great experience and learn how weather, Sun events, geomagnetic changes effect communication. I recommend to anyone interested to look in amateur radio license (10 yrs between renewal)

[@FarpointFarms]

It is really cool isn't it?

[@ThePaPappy]

@Farpoint Farms Got my vintage Electra Bearcat DX1000 with a Tri-band antenna ! Radios like the Gracedigital has an internet radio that pulls stations from around the world using internet . I have the Mondo Elite.

[@titodalessandro1909]

We should talk about Antennas. Home Station antennas. How to install them and good name brand you would recommend.

[@ericdee6802]

Erik has a three part antenna series he posted, he covers the basics regarding base station antennas. Surf around his channel under videos, youll fibd it.

[@marcruel9401]

I’ve been thinking of getting an AM/FM since before Rush left us. A small, digital I could move around the house. Two weeks ago I pulled the trigger and imagine my surprise when you held up my radio. Don’t know about the short wave but I’m happy with it. What a coincidence.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great! You will love shortwave if you were a fan of Rush.

[@stomper2582]

Informative video. Thanks for sharing. 🇺🇸

[@arlenewolf5260]

Hi Eric, Great Video! Don't forgot MURS. I am going to install a GMRS repeater at the new base. I wish you were my neighbor. I am in the Foot hills of the Great Smokey Mountains in E. Tn. I have enjoyed the CB Hobby since the 1970's. It is a blast to play with.

[@casperhoss2952]

Very informative, well done! Thanks for your time and knowledge, what a great channel.

[@FarpointFarms]

Much appreciated!

[@Dallas-Rife-UDX-347-Tennessee]

Great job man , you nailed it . That President Lincoln II + in the background,,, I gotta have one , and I’m gonna blame it on you !! I need to go back and watch that video . I don’t miss many but that’s one I obviously did , when we spoke the other day I had no idea you had it cause I was asking you about it . Cya on the live feed tomorrow Lord willing 🙏💪🇺🇸

[@mikebelisle4896]

Cb has always been a must. I fix them as well. It will be a usefull tool for a long time.

[@janiceshrope4062]

Thank you Eric. Communication is my focus this year. Learning much from you.

[@FarpointFarms]

Very welcome

[@mattwilcox3645]

@@FarpointFarms Is there a CB music channel? If so what is it? I am interested in listening only, what should I get?

[@mikeking7470]

Living on the edge of "tornado alley" weather radio is higher priority, but good weather radios are cheap. Can usually get them with a TV station promo for under $30.00.

[@madmax2069]

Heck, you can just pick up a Baofeng UV-5R for $25 which allows you to tune in on weather stations.

[@patriotprepper9175]

Love them info wars stickers brother!!!! We are the resistance!!!!

[@FarpointFarms]

Shhh.. there is no sticker, you must be mistaken,

[@bloodybillanderson9294]

@@FarpointFarms lol i saw NOTHING at all😉👍🇺🇸

[@grafja]

You aren't the resistance, you're the nutjobs attacking our nation's electrical grid. Y'all are the reason we'll need these!

[@primitivex5221]

Eric this was a great video. Thank you for doing this one. I think these items are a must have and alot of fun . I also agree cb is the smart choice. I have multiples of each .All of my stuff runs off of rechargeable aa/aaa and portable solar kits .

[@FarpointFarms]

Right on!

[@jamescopeland5358]

I've been thinking along these lines for a few years now. Definitely something we all need to consider as we develop our "Friends" list. I'm lucky that my people live within a 10 mile radius.

[@marcdemell5976]

When the tribulation starts, then the true colours come out . Watch out for the one with the yella streak.

[@tyronewalker5764]

Don't leave out a dedicated NOAA Weather radio!

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

Good advice!

[@exgenica]

With at least an alarm capability and if desired an auto-activate audio option when the alarm goes off. But keep your eyes open. Some of the units with an standby/alarm function drain a LOT of battery power even when in standby and the alarm isn't sounding...which isn't good for battery life...so find one that uses very little power when it is in standby. When on battery-only power, it should be able to run for days in standby before needing battery recharge or replacement. It's also nice to have one with standby that runs on AC adapter or battery and automatically switches to battery during a power failure. Personally, I prefer radios that can use a user-replaceable high-capacity rechargeable lithium cell.

[@DocMicrowave]

I remember some old multiband shortwave radios that also included the weather band.

[@Leo_Davis_]

Sadly, the NOAA is shutting down the transmitter in my area. It covers 2 large cities. Sign of the times I guess

[@DocMicrowave]

@@Leo_Davis_ I wonder if they will keep the hardware in place to be brought back up in the event that a disaster takes down land lines and cell towers.

[@fm71450]

Thank you for this presentation. In the mid 70s, I worked in the Lydian desert on oil rigs. We had NO comms, except radio. At that time BBC and VOA were really great on shortwave. I humped a small Sony SW radio with me - very glad I did. For a separate viewpoint on the world situation, nothing better than SW - but - that does not insulate the listener from “propaganda” - the listener still needs to try to separate “the wheat from the chaff”. Again, thank you from S.E. Tennessee.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great point- sometimes the propaganda is too good not to listen to. People just need to listen to all sides and make up their mind.

[@stelthtrekker9445]

I see the dual band ham radio mounted. I knew you wouldn't let your ticket expire. I love CB as well, but in my area it's mostly quiet. I'm still going to get a CB, but I'd never let my ham license go.

[@zerohour5747]

In a SHTF scenario, a license is worthless but the radio is priceless

[@Redbelly357]

@@zerohour5747 As you keep saying. Are you not intelligent enough to get a license now and build a network of han to communicate with and learn from?

[@mrdinme.4768]

I liked that you got to the point, no fluff, no sales lines, no BS. I recently dug out 2 old cb’s I had from 80’s. Hooked them up to 110>12dc, and a mag antenna. Seemed to still work! Was thinking getting into HAM? I sub’d, going check out some of your older stuff. I have forgotten alot. Peeked my interest. Thanks

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad I could help.

[@KB4QAA]

Great radio suggestions for the average user! Simple, cheap, easy to use!!!

[@davidburke3378]

2m is a great option also. Widely used and every county practices emergency nets that activate when needed. Repeaters give them a huge range.

[@FarpointFarms]

Yes, most certainly, but this video focused on radios that required no license to operate and the easy of operation while using them.

[@jacktaylor3001]

Great minds! I would suggest, if at all possible, one gets a shortwave reciever with all 30 bands. I enjoy sandbagging on the ham bands and in an emergency those communications could be invaluable.

[@jbird4461]

I have a eton elite 750 with some scrap speaker wire for a antenna. I listen to Hams all over the western US along with many over seas SW broadcasts. Listening to the Hams yak encouraged me to get my Technician license, working on my General now

[@adredling6767]

I’m a longtime radio buff. I have multiples of all the radios he mentioned + Amateur (Ham) radios and a General license to use them. Cell service is great until it’s taken down and 99% of people will NOT be prepared if that happens. Good video, appreciate your viewpoint very much!

[@thomasmaughan4798]

I have a shortwave receiver with only ONE band; but it is a very wide band! 100 KHz to 30 MHz.

[@jacktaylor3001]

@@thomasmaughan4798 👍

[@patriotnp336]

Greetings from Mitchell County, NC! Just started my education into HAM radios this week...presentation on SHARES last night! I've subscribed and look forward to future videos and those past!

[@FarpointFarms]

Rock on! Thanks for the subscribe

[@beretta804]

I do like the idea of the sw receiver option. I currently installed a CB antenna with a Bearcat 980. Also have a base GMRS set up and soon to have a base ham antenna. Looking to cover the "big 3". Living in RI, I might also get a cheap marine radio and possible a MURS to have as backup... just to have it all.

[@jamesvw769]

A CB antenna is a poor choice for SW unless you are listening from 25 to 30 MHz..

[@BikePractice]

Love the mellow vibe and your outlook. Thanks for the vid. I am a ham since back in the day and the SWLing and the CB was my intro to radio. Take care.

[@HNXMedia]

I love listening to weird little short wave transmissions, specifically out of South East Asia, at night time.

[@rickdaystar477]

There's a whole world of clandestine stations out there. Numbers stations are spooky...lol

[@geoffroberts1126]

I think KCNA (North Korean News Agency) still transmit news (read 'propaganda') on HF using Radio Teletype. A computer with sound card and a HF receiver and you can decode it. There's also a LOT of 'digital' modes, with everything from FAX to Slow Scan TV to various other modes that let you send and receive written text rather than use voice. Just the software (free) and a computer is all you need. AX25 packet radio is still used a lot, but there's also HellSchrieber, Piccolo, RTTY in various forms and speeds and a host of others. What's potentially useful is that some modes sound like atmospheric noise or just random noise of some kind, so it's got a certain level of stealth, if you don't know it's there, you often won't realise it's actually sending information. Hams use many of these modes on a routine basis, mostly on HF but they will work on 2m FM or even US style CB (27mhz) though its technically illegal. Obviously after the SHTF that's no longer an issue. So, you could, say, set it on a particular channel you and your contacts use, connected to the computer and leave it unattended while you're out doing whatever you need to do, then you can come back and read anything that came through and respond as needed at your leisure. AX25 packet 'mailboxes' will work well too, but there are many other modes to choose from. Google 'digital modes' and see what pops up.

[@crankyemoji2328]

Great video two up 👍👍. The only thing I would add is most CBers don’t know that 80% of the ability to reach out and talk to somebody is the antenna. And they should have an SWR meter to tune the antenna to the new location on the car or a new vehicle.

[@FarpointFarms]

great point on the antenna

[@barrysallade3788]

Hey Eric the fcc has allowed CB Radio to have FM as a modulation mode. Great videos, keep it up. 390 in Ky out!

[@forgetyourlife]

Ever heard of the FM Capture Effect? Its going to spoil alot of the fun for AM users.

[@barrysallade3788]

@@forgetyourlife yes as an engineer i have, as a long time cb'er folks have used fm for years below 26.965 mhz to talk skip across America and beyond. My personal opinion is that FCC should have set aside some channels above or below the traditional 40 channels for fm mode.

[@thomasmaughan4798]

@@barrysallade3788 Given the compliance rate of Citizens Band, I have a doubt the FCC would be obeyed had they done so. It is a good idea of course but unless citizens sort out which are going to be FM channels it is going to be a bit noisy.

[@toml.8210]

I have a Kaito KA600. It has all-bands plus weather and alerts, plus solar and dynamo charging, and some LED lighting. Don't forget a good antenna wire for the radio and bands you listen to. Actually, I have several all-bands receivers: a Tecsun PL-680, the Retekess you saw in the video, and a couple Kaitos. No one receiver is "best", since they have different advantages.

[@FarpointFarms]

Sounds like a cool radio.

[@toml.8210]

@@FarpointFarms It takes forever to charge the battery using the solar panel. It's just enough to keep the clock functioning. Use a mains charger or the dynamo.

[@haroldyeager6124]

I have a couple of old CBS out in the garage I have been contemplating putting back into use. One an old Cobra 29. With the side mic jack and a President Jackson. It of course has the extra bands, sideband, and I had a modulation kit put in it years ago. So it dead keys at about 8 watts, and swings up to 45 watts when talking. I need to have it checked out, because it gets hot just by turning it on and not using it.. I can’t find anyone local anymore to is qualified to work on it. There is a CB shop about an hour away, that I would trust to work on the Cobra, but not my President Jackson

[@thomasmaughan4798]

"and I had a modulation kit put in it years ago. So it dead keys at about 8 watts, and swings up to 45 watts when talking. " LOL. Really? How is that power measured?

[@haroldyeager6124]

@@thomasmaughan4798 the technician showed me the difference on his equipment. I had no reason to doubt him because I had been on different channels before in a truck stop and guys on the highway were cussing me to turn off my kicker. I’ve never used a linear. Always ran barefoot.

[@thomasmaughan4798]

@@haroldyeager6124 "I’ve never used a linear. Always ran barefoot." An audio compressor increases the *average* transmitted power of SSB radios; has no effect whatever on the power of AM radios but will sound somewhat louder (approaching distortion). Because actual linear amplifiers are illegal on the citizens band, people that want them are susceptible to fraud. One fellow proudly showed me his kilowatt linear amplifier, it had a single vacuum tube with a rated plate dissipation of about 40 watts; half of that is the best you can get into the antenna. Well, 20 watts is certainly more than 5, but not by a lot. That's 6 db, and 6 db is one "s" unit. .

[@trackpackgt877]

I think instead of an FRS or gmrs radio if you get a $20 baofeng and it will cover all those frequencies plus ham and more combined with a little bit more power than a frs radio. Me and a friend use them working in Columbus and we could get about 2 mi range out of them in the city and 3 or 4 miles out in the open farmland because they have better antannas and more power! Great video brother

[@FarpointFarms]

I understand, but the learning curve is much greater with a Baofneg vs. a regular GMRS radio.

[@trackpackgt877]

@@FarpointFarms oh you're absolutely right I was thinking from the perspective of somebody that's familiar with radios good point buddy 164 in the buckeye 👋

[@tylerdean980]

If you’ve got the dough for one a “shack in the box” ham radio covers all possible bases, but they’re expensive. If you just want to receive on the cheap, nothing beats an SDR.

[@countryside8122]

Well SDR needs to come with instructions, NOT an easy radio to figure out!

[@jimnorrish5507]

Not every one is allowed to use them…..

[@tylerdean980]

@@jimnorrish5507 Yes, but anyone can monitor. And in times of emergency anyone can, I encourage all to get the license and practice, but having it is a lot better than not.

[@stanleyromanowski9816]

Had a CB back when you still had to register radios. Talked "skip" on the CB with a fellow in Denver from my home near Pittsburgh, PA. Just so happened the Steelers were playing the Broncos that Sunday.

[@FarpointFarms]

Small world! Isn't that a neat thing to do?

[@davidp73]

Good advice….I personally like 2 meter ham radio. Of course you have to be licensed but with the right set up on simplex frequencies you can reach further contacts because of the wattage

[@SlipFitGarage]

I agree with 2 meter..... but during emergencies having a ham license is irrelevant. "Use all means necessary"

[@georgesadler7830]

Thank you for the video on different types of shortwave radios.

[@FarpointFarms]

You are welcome!

[@rexonendor6763]

Good to go Eric. Great content, stay alert stay alive. Just curious of your MOS and Sig unit. Might have crossed paths back in the day.

[@qqube4762]

If all else fails a crystal radio. These radios can be very useful just to get some information. It doesn't need batteries and easy to build. I always have one around just in case. The POW camps of ww2 would build them just to get news from home. These type radios where called foxhole radios. Lots of time simple can be better.

[@JF930H]

Cool stuff! I got a Chinese Tecsun radio a few years back that I pull out every once in a while for fun. Unfortunately, it does not have sideband. I've also considered investing in a CB radio for a a while now. Would you rather recommend a new shortwave radio that includes sideband or should I try something different and go with a CB radio?

[@FarpointFarms]

A shortwave with SSB is great for listening to Ham radio communications but honestly I don't use that mode as often as I do the AM band. HdData makes a great SSB unit for a decent price. AS for CB, GO FOR IT! You'll love CB with SSB for sure!

[@paulvelte]

You should have mentioned antennae requirements for each option.

[@chrislj2890]

I would also suggest an emergency radio, but not one of those little red el-cheapo pieces of junk that don't work when you need them. I recently bought a C.Crane CC Solar Observer that is pretty awesome. It's AM/FM/WX that can take three AA batteries or you can use the built in NiMH that can be charged with the attached solar panel or the hand crank dynamo. I also have the optional DC adapter. This thing has great reception, and using one of the wire spool antennas with it makes it even better. It's not cheap as I paid $70 from Amazon with the DC adapter, but I'm very glad to have it.

[@FarpointFarms]

Those are decent radios with decent charging options.

[@bauertime]

The scan feature is very, very important to me.

[@DonnieDarko727]

Very very very

[@bauertime]

@@DonnieDarko727 So your think it's more important to you, than it is to me. OH YEAH! Well bring it on bro!

[@RFMaster6]

I’ve got one of those Radio Shack DSP’s like you have sitting on top of that 3A power supply. Lol I’ve have the Radio Shack 10A ps. I’ve got a 3 Uniden 980s, not a fan(screen), and a Lincoln 2+ as well. No GMRS though. Yaesu FT-2800 for 2M. I’ll count my IC-718 w/ Chameleon EmComm antenna for the short wave receiver since thats mostly what it’s use is these days. How did is your wireless communication system working out during this difficult time after the terrible storm ?

[@FarpointFarms]

Everything worked very well. There was a surprise to this event. The Scanner. A radio I didn't have in the top 3 actually ended up being the number one radio in this event. It was critical info that was being shared by local help over the scanner that really let me stay informed.

[@bobbyscott3653]

Great video man! Everyone needs to have some type of radio in their house. Unfortunately not everyone thinks about the fact that cell phone system can be knocked out

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

Radio stations and television can be knocked out also, the first thing the US does when doing an operation like in Iraq and Syria is shut down the radio stations (either through power outages or bombing). In the USA, fewer and fewer stations actually broadcast any form of local news at all.

[@bloodybillanderson9294]

@@tenfourproductionsllc no mainstream tv cable or radio stations have any news anymore only the propaganda they want you to hear and its usually how bad this country is and how cops are nothing but murderers but whats really funny is that alex jones has been right more times than hes been wrong thats why he has been banned on social media yet he's on ham radio everyday lol 😆

[@ZadenZane]

I've got the exact radio you showed first, Retekiss V115 or whatever it's called. I use it as a speaker for my computer thanks to the handy "aux" jack. But it's not so amazing at picking up shortwave, I don't think. I got a Tecsun PL-330 which goes from 153LW to 29,999SW and has an external antenna hole. So far I've only managed to plug it into the VHF/FM aerial on our roof but wow I can get FM from Mars almost. Sadly that doesn't work on shortwave. I think I'm going to try that loop antenna MLA 30 that you recommended in another video. The most disappointing thing was that I can't find ANYTHING on CB. I've climbed a local hill and still nothing. What I remember from years ago was that handheld CBs were crap basically and we couldn't get a signal without a Thunderpole on the roof. I was talking away only to find out half my class at school had been listening in. This was the mid-1980s out in Wales and a lot of people kept CBs tuned in just to eavesdrop. Old British CB was FM with weird frequencies ending in 1¼ but there's a whole load of Europe-wide bands as well now which are AM/FM/SSB. I've searched through all of shortwave from 2700 to 29,990 and no SSB at all! I used to have a 150-29,999 radio in the 80s and it was full of SSB! From radio hams, not CB though. Back to emergencies I bought a radio/compass/flashlight/lamp/phone charger from Amazon. The radio's not that great. The best thing about it is it takes batteries as well as being hand-crankable and rechargeable, so if the power goes down and you have batteries to hand you can charge a phone or anything else from AAA batteries which could be a lot more practical than turning the hand crank for hours! Anyway thanks for the great video!!

[@1969flyboy]

how about a video on top 10 channels and best times for those channels? maybe set a time and channel and see if you can contact some of the followers on this channel. Or even a jump contact to reach you sounds fun to me.

[@FarpointFarms]

Sounds like a great idea!

[@danielb3462]

You live in Beautiful ridin country brother. I have had tears streaming down my face

[@FarpointFarms]

I am living the dream here my friend!

[@RC-fu6hg]

I’m Curious what your thoughts are on the proposed changes to FCC Part 95 with the CB being allowed to use FM as a modulation? I heard they’re going to implement the change.

[@DuanesMind]

Most CB's are AM/FM these days. FM is already used in most other countries without any issues. I find it much better than AM.

[@n2dabloo]

@@DuanesMind please name a make/model of CB radio available in the U.S. that has FM transmit capability? I’d like to buy one and I’ve yet to see any.

[@texasgonzo67]

Transmission distance is line of sight with FM fwiw... AM will talk much farther "bare foot"than FM anyday, and when skip is really rolling, you can talk for hundreds of miles without extra power. I do like FM for "covert" comms due to the limited range and my radio's ability to tune between channels. (1992 model Galaxy DX88HLwith mods, and not in the US) 😆

[@DuanesMind]

@@texasgonzo67 FM is not line of sight on 27Mhz, I talk skip on FM quite often.

[@DuanesMind]

@@n2dabloo Anytone AT-6666

[@hamradiobasics]

Excellent information. Direct and to the point. Thank you for sharing.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@NukaVaultReadiness]

Always great advice and videos Eric! Being the "comms guy" of the family, I got into Ham (and licensed) about a year ago. Still needed something for family to communicate, so then followed GMRS. My CB is also on my desk, but I need to get it set up fully. Wanting to play more on it to get community setup and hear the locals. 73's to you and yours!

[@Tsch6373]

Was looking at the CB radios on Amazon, have to look futher since there's not much of a selection. I want a hand-held with a rechargeable battery. These radios use the old barrel and cigarette lighter plug which are useless since newer cars use USB ports. And if SHTF, the ac plug-in charger is also useless. What are they thinking? Our radios (mine anyway) have USB connections, I recharge with a battery pack. Manufacturers need to wake up.

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed! USB charging power options would be perfect!

[@JoeR203]

I haven't heard ANY ham. But my bologna won't shut the hell up. 😁 I see that Polaroid behind you. I still have a 32" Polaroid TV I used to use as a PC monitor and TV because it has picture-in-picture. But not just a small box in a corner of the screen. You can also split the P-n-P 50/50 on screen.

[@Adrian-sb7vi]

te estoy viendo en mi clase de inglés, eres un grande, sigue así

[@FarpointFarms]

Thanks!

[@area51audio]

Something to consider: Any of the electronics that have usb rechargeable batteries have a limited lifespan and usually are not user-replaceable. You'll likely be able to find AA's in a situation, but good luck finding the proper little liPo pack to go in your dead 5 year old walkie.

[@heretikpapy]

Charge them once every 6 month and your good for long time. And yes they are replaceable. All talkie-walkies have replaceble batteries... So it's up to us to order more and leave them in the package unopened for future usage. ;) For the Multibands receiver radio, yes, you have to put one, brand new, in your Faraday Closet, in case of emergency. Not so much have replacable AA batteries, sadly. But the one like the Crane C. Skywave SSB or the Tescun PL880 that most radio amateur people recommande, they have 18050 or AA batteries, replaceable, and are the best models on the market probably.

[@kfsrmn]

I have a solar powered 9800mw pack that can charge cell phones and small radios.

[@heretikpapy]

@@kfsrmn I have 4 x 100w solar panels + Bluetti 1500wh solar generator. Just in case.

[@strayblackcatsmeow]

Mine is battery operated but it can take rechargeables and has a charging station. Best of both worlds.

[@madmax2069]

It's easy to remove the batteries from said radio and directly wire a power bank, or wire up to a USB port of a solar panel and run them that way.

[@speedbuggy16v]

Lots of good info, I would definitely want sideband on a general coverage receiver. I can cover everything from 160 meter to 10 meter including CB and twom and 70cm with my kit. The downside is with the coming solar minimum, coverage is not going to be quite as good as it has been. I should get a newer export radio with FM capability though. For those that dont have a CB, garage sales and auctions, I have picked up a bunch of 40 channel side band radios for under $20 each over the years. Current rig on the bench is a Motorola MoCat 40.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great tips!

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Thanks. I'm new.

[@PC4USE1]

I think having a shortwave set up is good for a SHTF situation. In that scenario,licensing will not be problematic. ONLY in that scenario. I would confine myself to listening in any normal scenario.

[@toml.8210]

I like to scan shortwave at night. In January 2021, I picked up a (secret military channel) and I heard some very interesting things... That frequency is quiet now.

[@Homesteadinginthehoa]

Where’s the best place to find a used CB radio these days? I suspect the thrift shops would be sold out by now.

[@mikestacey6623]

Try ebay

[@BikerGirlTraveler]

I agree with what you said about CB radio. Recently I saw a video of some guy who did a 600 mile trip with his wife and took his GMRS radio along. The radio was dead the vast majority of the time. He tried reaching out to others to chitchat while driving and no one replied. For me, I would rather have GMRS radios over FRS any time. GMRS radio can have more features (if you are into that) and they use the same frequencies as the FRS radios, but in some channels they can transmit at a high wattage. Right now I am about to order a couple of MURS radios. Since there is no standard SHTF radio system, I feel that it is good to have at least one of each in case you need to communicate with others who don’t have GMRS or whatever type of radios your have.

[@FarpointFarms]

You make some great points on the GMRS and MURS

[@jcmo69]

but it's really all about the antennas right?

[@FarpointFarms]

For FRS, no as you are stuck with the stock antenna. For Shortwave, any long piece of wire will do the job great so no issue there. CB and HAM? Yup! but there are ways to save $$ on that as well. The mag mount antenna can be had for less than $30.00 in most cases and will give you a way to communicate when things get rough.

[@jcmo69]

@@FarpointFarms we used to have CB radios and scanners decades ago. Discovered SDR's last month been trying to get a listening station going. It would have been nice have the last few years. I can hear somethings if I tune in but haven't got the a software scanner going yet. I like your channel though, it is much nicer to watch than ham people who go on and on for nearly an hour about Ohm's law.

[@forgetyourlife]

@@jcmo69 Your watching the wrong ham channels then. Lots of good ones out there.

[@howitstartsmm]

old radio and CB equipment (pre 911) are mostly where you can find analog systems instead of digital. Emergency services kept analog systems and civilians got digital, remember all the "free" tv converters. I have found an interesting variety of signals us the analog systems. Even though digital has more variety, analog signals are more durable. Anyway thought I'd share, communication and information is key. Also I use an old Hooker Bi-linear around 500 range, really boosts any signal in, emergencies.

[@FarpointFarms]

Good stuff! Thanks for the info.

[@Swoop180]

I remember and sorely miss listening to Art Bell, he got me many many miles down the road!

[@robertlyman9789]

You could pick him up on skip on like 2-3 different stations, would fade in and out. Miss those days

[@tomeemerson]

Art Bell. Great show.

[@BryanTorok]

The two major CB radio companies are pushing for Frequency Modulation (FM) on CB. Something to consider in buying a radio.