How To Buy A GMRS Radio - What To Look For When Shopping For A GMRS HT, GMRS Features Explained

[@walterhoward5418]

FARS? With 40+ years doing radios, there is not such thing as 'FARS'.

[@Edb007th]

Audible chuckle

[@fnkoffroad9300]

Come on man! Everyone knows 1 FAR is a couple of distances. That's why you want a radio that can transmit many FARS and cover a great many distances when SHTF. Thanks for another great video Randy, Rodger-Beep.

[@Raptor-gd6sk]

Oh The “ Expert “ has spoken 🤦‍♂️

[@lesgobrandon]

Good lord 🤦‍♂️

[@ke8mattj]

Imagine not knowing the unit of measurement known as fars while having significant amount of time in the radio hobby. 🤣

[@Tekenduis98]

I dont know what I enjoy more.... the sad ham references... the sarcasm... the great content or the actual sad hams that end up getting stickied! Keep up the good work, im a fan for life now.

[@jpvoodoo5522]

I just started watching this man. I like him because he is obnoxiously precise and honest. This is his wheelhouse and you can hear the frustration he feels at manufacturers and poseurs who prey upon the ignorance of people who are just getting interested. He goes out of his way to clearly explain the misinformation and correct our understanding. Moisture proof. I wont. Forget this.

[@jdolio]

Man, I'm really glad that I'm your favorite viewer. I feel honored.

[@RoamingWhispers]

Just pre ordered a pair of the Rocky Talkies 5 watt radios. I’ve had their 2 watt FRS radios for a while and have been very happy with them. Long story short, your videos have been very helpful. From getting my license to having confidence in my purchase all while letting me know I really don’t have to take this too seriously. Thanks!

[@rustymac40]

I just got the RT 5 watt last week and am very impressed. Are you still liking yours?

[@theselector2310]

I appreciate your public declaration that there is nothing private in GMRS.

[@daryl7932]

First thing I do when randy posts a new video is pause it and check for any pinned posts! Favorite part of this channel.

[@greyhairedmountainbiker116]

I'm just trying to learn about radios, wasn't even thinking abot 4 wheelin, but mine actually is a Rubicon. I appreciate your serious approach and condemnation of all tomfoolery. 😂

[@johnnyquid-xj4kk]

bought the Retevis RB17P GMRS for the heck of it. Paid the 35 bucks for the license too. A new hobby for me. Nice videos.

[@wushock92]

Nice job explaining superhet vs SOC radios. If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were a wise ham radio 'Elmer.' 🤣Thoroughly enjoyable and informational.

[@daveoffroad7396]

Hey Randy..!, I visited your channel originally for the off-road content...but I stayed for the sarcasm..! Keep being you...!

[@fillmoreranger634]

Randy… This is one of your best videos! It packs so much important and very useful information for a new person getting into GMRS. If you don’t already have one, may I suggest a “GMRS 101’s” playlist? Adding this outstanding video to such a playlist may make it easier for people to find, as time goes on. Thank you for your common sense approach to help educate the masses looking to get into GMRS.

[@toml.8210]

Yes, I agree. He put in a few of the trick voice bits, but it was classy. Maybe Randy could put all the GMRS- related videos into a playlist.

[@gujnbhhffbghj8062]

nicely packaged presentation, like a fresh pack of tp or a new can of sardines

[@MattCoversTech]

I’ve always appreciated how you’ve cut through the b/s you see spewed elsewhere. I’ve had my general license for amateur for a few years but am getting my GMRS license so my family can talk around the neighborhood, and your videos have proven informative and reassuring that I’m making the right decisions. Thanks!

[@sethsharp5615]

I'm here for the gear review. I was a Navy Radioman for 11 years. I understand how it works. But our toys cost a lot more and are huge and built mostly for data. I loved doing radio stuff! I'm excited to get started.

[@KirkRake]

Hey RM get back to your radio room you might see a little difference unless you are in CIC or bridge

[@Robnord1]

Just opened a pair of UV9-Gs that came in the mail. You da MAN and my favorite source of GMRS information Randy.👌

[@philipstaite4775]

Interesting, thanks for this video. I didn't realize that split-tones capability (or lack of) was even an issue. I just *assumed* all radios could do split tones. A word of advice for anyone looking at HTs. All other things being equal, or even not equal, you probably want at least a splash-proof if not fully water-proof. Don't fall into the trap of "Oh, I take good care of my gear. It'll never see..." Yes, yes it will at the most inconvenient time.

[@USAFJUNKIE]

At first I couldn't figure out why people care so much about spilt tones. I've never heard anyone mention it in ham radio. But then I realized it might allow for more repeaters on the limited channels available, which kinda makes sense.

[@marcspaz]

I love the video! You have a great sense of humor, which makes it entertaining as well as informative.

[@chrisrock340]

Excellent video! So packed full of information. And, as always, your delivery is spot on! So moist!

[@ChrisKD9YSW]

This is a great information. I just bought my first more advanced GRMS radio and am using it as a SHTF radio. Yes still learning my radio.

[@jamesm.1467]

Christopher, did you go with a handheld or base model and which one did you choose? I'm kinda in the same boat as I have two cb radios currently. I have both the McKinley and the Bearcat 980 in both of my trucks. I went with those as I really liked both of their features and really liked the both of them. One's in my Tundra and the other is in my Durango. But I want a GMRS as an additional means for communications and I haven't decided on which GMRS to get. I like both the handhelds and base but am more leaning towards the Midland MTX575. Anyway, sorry for the rambling, just trying to do my homework on GMRS radios before buying one. Have a great day...👍👍

[@donalddodson7365]

Another great overview for the newer GMRS user. (I wonder what it must be like to live with the sad hams and grumpy GMRS-ers that can't chuckle at "FARS." Like, "How FAR can I get away from that person?" Great advice to refer the prospective buyer to online reviews, using the same caution you give for the "internet experts" that "don't get out of the basement very often." Keep up the sense of perspective and humor. Thank you.

[@ernestoguzman7195]

Thank you! I love your videos! 🤣 I’m new to GMRS and learning as much as I can so I can go off roading. Thank you!

[@tnewdad]

Thanks for the clarity on your videos, Randolpho! Helpful for us noobs - and a big thumbs up on the T-shirts!

[@marqueeviveiros8412]

bruhhhh. I literally became a fan of your videos your sarcasm cured my depression

[@enricofermi67]

Bruuhhh morons say bruuhh

[@ephjaymusic]

I like to keep my radios moist. Thank you Randy!!! ☺️

[@MrEye4get]

I'm experimenting with using my GMRS radios to connect with others riding their motorcycle with me. Bluetooth headsets are more expensive than many good radios and a simple headset with PTT button seems to work well. The range is considerably longer as well. Yes, everyone has a GMRS license; since they are so easy to get!

[@airfed]

Another great video - good explanations for a few terms about which I did not fully understand. This video confirms my wise decision to buy the TidRadio Pair Pack (TD-H5) you reviewed a few months ago. It's a good 'starter' radio as my first GMRS radio.

[@rdsmith334]

I have no interest in GMRS radios. BUT… your videos are always very entertaining. So even if it’s a topic I’m not interested in, I still watch. Thank you for the chuckles.

[@JohnMackay-kn3rl]

I got my license in 1983. My MARS modified FT 70D provides about 5 miles of reliable fars most of the time. I mostly use GMRS if Im not on 17 meters 73

[@philipgauthier3570]

Loved the plug for CH19 GMRS....eventually people will catch on...love your videos.

[@billruttan117]

Looking forward to the next video from “Randy and the Split-Tones”!

[@richallcorn]

I only recently discovered that, according to the F.C.C., the FRS radios use "12.5kHz" or narrow band, and the GMRS generally use the "25kHz" or wide band FM. To confuse things, the FRS used to be channels 1-7 onlly, and the GMRS was channels 1-22, and 15-22r (same channels, just set up for repeater use) . NOW, the F.C.C. is saying that the FRS channels are the same as the GMRS??? I just sent them an email asking "WHY" they would change things that way to confulse things. Now radios that select channels 8-22 will go from .5w to 2w, which, according to F.C.C. regulations for "FRS", would make them illegal. Ugggh! Thanks for clarifying alot of this. I have learned the following: CTCSS = CTCSS, CTC, PL, DPL are all the same thing* DCS = DCS, DPL and DTC, all the same thing* *various vendors use alternate names for the same thing Hope this helps.

[@carrionpinata7163]

Enjoying the videos, the humor, and sarcasm. I realized that the BwownFang UV-5R that I purchased was NOT GMRS. On the box, the print reads "Dual-Band Transceiver" so not the correct version. D'oh! I'll have to work on that radio amateur license soon and become "Happy Ham. No time for Bullshit!" The new BwownFang UV-5R has a sticker in the interior of the battery case that reads "GMRS" and the box makes mention of neither GMRS nor "Dual-Band Transceiver."

[@Renegade1983CJ]

Randy great video. Because of your video's I just got my GMRS license. Please keep these videos coming. And on a side note, should I start signing ALL my emails and important documents with my call sign like the Sad Hams ??????

[@tomdonahoe3539]

Very excellent summary. Thank you, 73 & Merry Christmas 🎄.

[@nomore1007]

I was able to hit a repeater 90+ miles away with the Boefeng G11S (3w), but it was mountain peak to mountain peak.

[@richsilvasatx]

Back in high school I had to pick a "shop". So, my father having served in the army Signal Corp, I chose Radio. About the only thing I remember is the instructor, Mr P Jett, (2nd thing I remember!) stating that superheterodyne was the best circuit (?) around. Tech HS. Go Buffalos (3rd! and 4th!).

[@lukeg7517]

Thank you for making this video, this cleared up a lot of questions I had and your recommendations on different radios was very helpful as well sir

[@bybikenw7928]

It makes me proud to be your favorite viewer. In kind, you are my favorite content creator. really. Seriously though, I find you hilarious. I'm good on toilet paper as well.

[@KeyBored101]

Fantastic information, great audio and video quality but most of all, very entertaining

[@donaldoc]

"Thank You", Sensei, for the thorough, detailed, and complete tutorial on GMRS HT information, in order to make the right choices, when purchasing a radio... "Especially", Your Reviews!👌

[@coolelectronics1759]

I once keyed up a baofang uv5r on a FRS channel and it dispenced out a can of coke. It was barbie sized but it was legit. Pretty dope little radio if you ask me. You get all this + a soda machine for 25 bucks? nice!

[@wendiig0]

Great buyer's guide! I won't even mention that you neglected to mention the Roger Beep and the all important flashlight. Oops.

[@bikemannc]

THANK YOU!! Another finely balanced video of info and we'll welcomed humor

[@808mills]

Thanks for the video I was/ am interested in gmrs radios. I’ve watched a lot of your videos and I’ve learned a thing or to from them. I’m ending up buying a pair of radios that you recommended. Unfortunately they didn’t have the reach I was hoping for. And yes I understand the range idea. ( I was hoping they would have enough) but thanks for all the information you post. I’m planning on buying a base type radio next

[@Gta2O13]

Tidradio h8 GMSR allows you to save other band frequencies and transmit on them with out an unlock. Speaking of unlocking, yes you can! This radio has 3 unlock modes. GMSR only, Ham only and full unlock for all frequencies.

[@Chainmale75]

I was thinking about getting a Ham license... BUT because I really only want to use comms, I'm opting for GMRS. 🤷‍♂️

[@MissLita]

Me too😊

[@davidyummus6259]

My $28 BAOFENG GM-15 Pro GMRS Radio will be delivered today :)

[@hemitj]

Another great video and thanks for the reminder to hoard my GMRS radios, or was that TP in case SHTF! Thanks again for the content and entertainment!

[@glasswinder]

I like your shirt 👕 too. I like your way of instructions.

[@propdoctor21564]

Seems like a bunch of excellent information to someone like me who is just thinking about getting into this hobby.

[@robv60]

Fars, 🤣, I'm new to this and I got it! Love it! Also love the P365 mat.

[@torresmaria842]

Thank you ..I am a new subscriber and I just got my GNRS license. I am trying to understand the gnrs world . I am trying to decide which gnrs radio should I buy for myself and my family..Its so hard to make a decision..

[@Sonicgott]

These videos, man, you always make my day. ❤

[@huf67]

Maybe somebody else can verify this, but I do believe that one of the radios over his left shoulder is signaling in Morse code "Help, I'm being held captive in a Chinese radio factory" ... It's either that or "Let's Go Brandon" 🤔

[@baomao7243]

Depends on the mode you’re using - AM for the first msg, FM for the 2nd msg. (There is also a hidden SOS msg transmitted using QAM…)

[@Courtesyflush52]

I'd hope its not the latter. That would be kinda cringy

[@Thatsmisteroldguytou]

I dunno', but I think he tells everyone they are his favorite viewer.

[@BillOldsen]

Classic - Let's Go Brandon!

[@timhorton8085]

LETS GO JUSSSSTTTTIIINN

[@rodolfolat4541]

Thank you for education about GMRS. God bless.

[@squallywally]

Very informative. These radios look very nice. That new retevis looks pretty cool. I am still partial to the “not a GMRS radio” that everybody isn’t supposed to use and everyone loves. It just looks right. I sent the affiliate link to the tshirt of that radio to my wife so she can get it for my birthday.

[@alexmitchell7083]

I wish I had found this before ordering a baofeng uv-5r from radio made easy. I didn’t really realize it was a ham radio. It says gmrs but idk at this point. It’s supposed to be radio made easy but I haven’t found that it’s any easier because I’m still confused. I’ll likely order a set of gmrs wouxun radios from Amazon.

[@lorettacaputo6997]

I am waiting for a GMRS HT that has a Farometer built into it so I can see how good the radio operates before I buy one.

[@usernamemykel]

We're all waiting for that!!

[@DannyPodesta]

I am studying for a ham license but the more I learn, seems like GMRS is the way to go for my family and I. Not everyone will take the time for a license. Not sure which GMRS radio to purchase. Would like to also use them for comms with my son while we are doing drills at the range. Any suggestions would be great.

[@begooglybegrudged8070]

Thanks Randy - You're a good Elmer

[@erikthoen2879]

it comes down to antenna and surrounding conditions,,,have the best radio and limited antenna,,,well

[@jesseespinoza367]

Question , my son has been watching your videos. I’ve enjoyed watching your content. My son wants to get into GMRS. What would be a great beginner radio for his radio in his truck, Midland, MX, 275, or the retivis ra86 ?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The Midland is very simple and very limited, and costs more but is also a slightly better quality radio. The Retevis is also simple but it can do a little more and costs less.. The biggest drawback of the Retevis is that comes with stupid tones/codes enabled on every channel so you want to actually talk with anyone, you have to go in and remove the codes/tones from every channel.. Takes only 5 minutes but it's a PITB .

[@gearymiller7615]

Watched quite a few of your videos and trying to decipher your sarcasm but my question from a newbie is what would a good entry level gmrs radio be?

[@jamesscanachi446]

Great video, thanks! I’m curious, how many fars can I expect on a tin can & string set-up?

[@chrisjohnson8741]

How much string you got?

[@jdkimple]

It depends on the diameter and fiber make up of the string as well as the diameter, or "capacity" of the cans used.

[@usernamemykel]

Natural fiber string (cotton, hemp) or monofilament nylon, braided or not (or knot )???????????????

[@applejacks971]

Is your string going up hill or down hill?

[@TribbleBot]

If you cut your string in half, now you have two strings and you can get twice the fars

[@Greg-et2dp]

Nota Rubic your utube videos are awesome my friend

[@olegig5166]

I can find lots of info describing different options and lots of advice to check the reviews; however I cannot find a review that definitely says such and such radio has or does not have said options. Perhaps it's a KZbin thing of what someone can say and what they cannot say. Now I know why so many folks have so many radios, they are searching for the radio that does everything correctly.

[@Scootchels]

Thanks, but way more than I need. I’d like two radios - one to install on Jeep, one handheld. Power to transmit over distance is nice, but don’t require ultrawatts. Want to be able to do basic communication, and scanning over broad range of channels, but nothing specific. Budget is flexible but I’m not going to use a long list of customizable features. What do U reccomend?

[@mandbsovereign]

TOP 1 is the BTech GMRS Pro because i have all three and it is the best.

[@Sirwill12579]

do you have a video on the super GMRS RADIOS or some type of buying guide for people who hike with one another and shoot with ear pro on that like to use boom capable radios using a NATO 3.5 mm earphone jack to the ports on the radio itself.

[@ralphjohnson8775]

Should I make the 1000 G Plus Repeater set up Or should I go with one of the portable Repeater like the Midland?? I'm looking for The most watt out put And something to use alot That will hold up And last For years I'm trying to reach out about 35 + miles Or a little more .

[@RandyDRoberts1]

Just received GMRS license and I’m about to purchase two radios. I watched your reviews on MXT500 and Wouxun kg1000. They both seem like great radios- bottom line, which one would you put in your rig? Thank you

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The MXT500 is too simple/limited for me. For the last year I have had the KG-1000G in my Jeep - BUT, i just replaced the KG-1000G with a Motorola XTL5000 and putting the KG1000G in my wife's Jeep.

[@RandyDRoberts1]

@@TheNotaRubicon thank you so much for reading and replying to my inquiry. If the kg1000 is good enough for your wife it’s good enough for me and mine..

[@kaybee1956]

@@TheNotaRubicon In the interest of maintaining peace on the marital front, I’d put the Motorola in her jeep and just borrow it all he time. Move he k1000 o her jeep she might get the feeling you consider her a second class citizen.

[@RobBanks]

I would love to hear your suggestions on a home base radio set for gmrs. I see options of mobile and handheld, but is there good options for something I can leave in the office? Thanks

[@judgedurham2009]

Good morning from Shropshire UK 🇬🇧

[@756766]

Another informative video, Randy.. I'm looking for a GMRS Radio for mainly outdoors (specifically hunting). What would be your recommendation? Thank you. Scribed!!

[@Calaveras32Spcl]

As a complete novice in GMRS, only learned about it about 2 weeks ago, is the Midland MXT275 a decent starter radio for a Jeep mounted trail comm?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

IMO the MXT275 is a very good, simple to use radio for someone that just needs simple trail comms. I made a video about it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ep6ceaqubdt5pLc

[@kidvision564]

Very good no nonsense content - but feel sad for the ham police attacks😏

[@byrondaniels421]

I continue to learn at the knee of The Master.

[@zachpeters7096]

So if SWIM wanted to buy an FRS from Walmart and connect it to a 50 watt amp with a yagi... They're product would be many fars?

[@Dj_Latinman]

Randy, thanks for all you do. because of you i purchased the wouxun KG-935G and the KG-UV 9G pro. now shopping for a mobile unit but not wanting to pay that Mid $400 radio…

[@waynecox5138]

Radioddity has a couple in the $100 range.

[@craws_ak]

I don't think I saw you monitoring 19 in this video, now everyone on my gmrs is gonna be talking about this

[@johnroberts7479]

Does a wide band radio setting result in more fars you can achieve? What are the advantages of using narrow band? And why would anyone buy an expensive radio that doesn't have the features of a Baofeng? I can understand it it if both radios have basically the same features, but the only two that stand out is the VOX, which doesn't work at all on a Baofeng, and the squelch, which has worked fine on my Baofengs. I live in the Washington, D.C., area and I frequently hear micro-transmissions that are difficult to hear regardless of radio model and make. (I can hear the radio base calling in food orders and bus schedule issues and can tell what they are saying, except when they speak Spanish -- they are just _weak_ signals, and nothing on my end can help that because they're not using the local repeater.) I've tried using super-duper antennas, but those signals just don't have the ooomph (opposite of fars). Squelch just doesn't do enough on my end. One very nice radio I wish Randy would review is the Tidradio TD-H6 or the Radioddity GA-510 (same radio), or the Baofeng BF-H7. They're just _very nice_ radios regardless of who makes them. The H6 is just one of those radios I'm in love with. They don't have the stupid audio block feature that worked out fine on the 82/82HP, but were a nuisance on the 9G and others of the horrindiously-designed 9-series of radio. It just illustrates how differently these radios were on the drawing board!

[@veganconservative1109]

Thank you for this info. You were way more informative than the ... shall we say 'lackluster ham radio store clerk once I asked for the difference between FRS, GMRS, HAM and said GMRS sounded more like what I needed. (Kept staring at me like he thought I was a cretin. Yes, I'm new to radios, I said so. Apparently he was new to salesmanship? Not going back.)

[@Pirate19501]

OK maybe a stupid question, but here goes. If GMRS is limited at 5 Watts transmit what good does a 20W 40W or anything higher than 5 W do any better?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

Mobile GMRS radios are limited to 50Watts.

[@425BigChris]

What kind of antenna you using on your KG-935G? I just purchased my KG-935G and was looking for a good antenna upgrade ended up ordering a Nagoya 771g.

[@veganconservative1109]

You tease. 🤨 7:45 has a radios with a background saying "Designed for use with a Sig Sauer P365." I got all excited... I can take a semi-auto (as Newsom would have it) deadly assault weapon and accessorize it with a GMRS radio? How would that work? Screw to a modified rail attachment? Would I need separate documentation such as with a can? 🤔 It was all a cruwel lie. 😦

[@bluedeval03]

Hello Randy, any word if Wouxun will be changing the KG-UV9G to the dark screen similar to KG-935G in near future?

[@bettersaferadio]

Yes... VERY soon.

[@dangercloseprotocol]

I appreciate this information. I’m going to label this video “Reference Material”.

[@dvalinut]

Love the shirt😂🤣😃

[@kygent508]

Is there 2 or 3 radios you recommend with cost $200 or less and yes I have repeaters in my area West Ky.

[@Oper8or]

I bought the Wouxun KG-UV9G PRO. I need it to replace my old scanner that has lasted over 10 years. I'd rather have both needs met in one device then have two devices to carry around. My question is, for anyone who has experience with them, can a stubby antenna work as well as a 16 inch antenna? I've never tried one and would like to keep the radio as compact as possible.

[@randykitchleburger2780]

No, not nearly

[@nickpod]

What is your favorite GMRS radio with bluetooth connectivity? You're got me ready to buy the UV-9G, but I don't see anything on bluetooth. I am in a 2021 Defender, but my buddies are on motorcycles. They need handsfree and I would prefer hand free.

[@GEAE_Denny_L]

Perfect presentation !

[@hermanfurlong8824]

Can gmrs radios use linear amps like cb?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

yes, but they have to be made for UHF/GMRS

[@xfree143]

Your intro's are great!

[@russellguyton3109]

I love your shirt.

[@kaybee1956]

Thank YOU. Well done

[@conormcnamara4318]

I have a question, can the KG-1000G 50W GMRS RADIO. Can you Scan 800 Series Frequencies “Public Safety” it says that you can do 50-53.995, 108-179.995, 320-349.995, 400-479.995 and 700-985 MHz 800 Series Runs under the 700-985 MHz if I am not mistaking. And if so, Listening on GMRS Frequencies. Range 462-467 MHz Can I run two Antennas at the same time to monitor both GMRS and 800 Series Public Safety Frequencies?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The 1000G can receive frequencies up to 985Mhz, so as long as your public safety transmissions are analog, you will be able to receive them.

[@allenkuester781]

Yo question got my GMRS license. Know I’m looking for a handheld radio what would be my best option would u recommend? And do to FARS should I get on repeater capable?

[@matthewlangley5565]

Nice shirt. Nice to see a fellow Conservative out there in Commieville.

[@jnelson16701]

I'm just happy that I'm still his favorite viewer. Sorry guys.