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. 🤣

[@daveoffroad7396]

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

[@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.

[@DrJoeJoeHands]

Thank you

[@JimsNBHomestead]

Wide or narrow????? On GMRS

[@tonymengela3575]

If you were my neighbor I would be a lot less returded

[@seandrake7534]

So can i puty 1500 w amp in n line and get more fars 😂😂

[@chubbschannel3885]

I'm going to go buy sardines now.

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 .

[@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 ??????

[@wendiig0]

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

[@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😊

[@chrislj2890]

I'm hoarding toilet paper AND sardines.

[@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

[@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.

[@billruttan117]

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

[@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!!

[@MikeMeadows]

You’re the best, F….. the rest. Hams are meant to be eaten😂

[@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.

[@marqueeviveiros8412]

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

[@enricofermi67]

Bruuhhh morons say bruuhh

[@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.

[@marcspaz]

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

[@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.

[@jdolio]

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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@chrisrock340]

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

[@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.

[@RemyRAD]

I don't want to hear any tones! I don't like hearing Beeping and Pooping, passing gas through my radio! I'd rather hear rock 'n' roll. Why do I want to hear beeping tones? If you hear one you've heard them all. They are boring. And no association with Elon Musk's other company. But those beeps are boring. It just verifies to you. You are pushing a button. Or someone else is pushing a button. Oh boy! How much more technical competence can we, endure? I heard you say, Repeater Channel, 21 or 22 was it? I thought there were only 8? And 22, regular channels for direct connect. I think I'm confused? Because… Some people. Will just want to talk on their walkie-talkies. Without tones. CB radio didn't need any tones! CB radio was fund and straightforward. Only 2 channels to be concerned about, 19 and 9. When everything made more sense and everybody knew where to go. Channel 19. For some Good Buddy Conversation. Until you had to Breaker, it off. When I was into CB radio 50 years ago. I was a Repeater. I really was. I would be on the FM radio from midnight until 6 AM. And when I wasn't on 105.7 I was on Channel-19. And everybody in Baltimore, knew it. I play all their requests they called in overnight. They would all connect with me on the CB to say hi and thanks. And I was Interactive. Before the Internet or home computers was a twinkle in anybody's eyes. Because we were all Analog. And solid! My home CB base station was, nothing like other, base stations, CB, ham or otherwise. When you have a radio station production studio. Plugged into your CB radio. It's always a lot of fun. Because CB radios can't sound like that, ever. It's like your favorite rock 'n' roll radio station. Then on the CB. Like that. Microphone equalizers, limiters, compressors, reverbs, special-effects, echoes I would do a radio show all night. Only to entertain on the radio during the day on my CB. In 1976. But I started in 1973. Those were the good old days. One half-century ago. Oh my God! Where the hell did the time go? Why are all of my friends and family members, dead? Why is my husband dead? Why do I feel dead? I'm the living dead. Half of me tied with him. I had 22 beautiful years. RemyRAD

[@robertgrant3844]

Yeah, you’re the best! Thanks. But I’m no expert.

[@Zif-the-Old-Herring]

Was that erotic or carotid? I have engaged the soul enriching art of creative listening. It's Zen or it's Swinn? The distance can be measured in a sandbox of FARS if one faceplants properly. If I shave my derrière in the correct pattern, I can converse many FARS with those with the correct pattern with no problem. We are hoping to get a NetFlix original movie. Chill Bros and Bras, we are. . . something. . . un . . . my mom called me for dinner, I have to go.

[@nomore1007]

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

[@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.

[@MAJorgy70]

I need to master Morse code so I can figure out what those radios were blinking in the back ground. 🤔

[@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.

[@ephjaymusic]

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

[@RodrigoAGJ]

"Some people" told me that Baofeng radio... is forbidden for FFC, plus you & me, can go to jail, for pushing the PTT without a SAD HAM LICENSE‼️🤪🤪🤪🤪

[@theselector2310]

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

[@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.

[@Robnord1]

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

[@Greg-et2dp]

Nota Rubic my hobbies are painting pictures 🖼 and listening to shortwave and ssb iam thinking 🤔 about getting my Grms license my friend

[@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!!

[@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!

[@n3qdz]

Stop staring into my soul........

[@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

[@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...👍👍

[@davidyummus6259]

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

[@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

[@stevecolby6505]

I don’t like fish…..but I do like toilet paper….thanks for the tip……

[@privacylock855]

Before I buy a radio, I download and read the manual.

[@hermanfurlong8824]

Can gmrs radios use linear amps like cb?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

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

[@murphmurph2124]

I bought a uv5r and some guy on KZbin shows how to unlock the gmrs capability

[@dwightmorrow2711]

BEST SHOW EVER.. Cleared up a lot, THANKS I still want to have your baby... Dwight

[@FrJohnBrownSJ]

This video is not for me. I still gave it a thumbs up.

[@byrondaniels421]

I continue to learn at the knee of The Master.

[@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.)

[@kidvision564]

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

[@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.

[@hanscloss4063]

Thanks, plane and simple

[@rodolfolat4541]

I live in San Fernando Valley how can I join your net? What is your repeater channel? Your help is highly appreciated and I want to use my HT GMRS to have some fun talking to technical person like you.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

We no longer do that Net and the repeater we have that can reach the SF Valley has been re-purposed.

[@Greg-et2dp]

Nota Rubic your utube videos are awesome my friend

[@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!

[@kaybee1956]

Thank YOU. Well done

[@JustMe-bk2sz]

Biden makes unscheduled trip to Walter Reed

[@DoorPro3667]

Are ‘FARS’ further or farther? Asking for a friend.

[@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

[@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

[@williamortiz8733]

Ok, ok- but that Sig 365 counter mat?

[@jimkunkle2669]

Moist.

[@KeyBored101]

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

[@nyquil762]

Great video. Thanks

[@glennfink8384]

Why only eight repeater channels?

[@paulhook1097]

Hope this guy fixes his voice pattern so I can watch the video. Just sayin.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

I'm so sorry you had to go through this! Please let us know if you need any help getting through what must be a very difficult time for you! Hopefully your comment gets you the minimum daily amount of attention that you require.

[@freeidaho-videos]

Thank you! Roger-Beep

[@begooglybegrudged8070]

Thanks Randy - You're a good Elmer

[@larrymccready8499]

What radio has all the features

[@eaglepointtactical8532]

lol , great sublim

[@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."

[@warmfreeze]

Split tones... split tones...

[@BrianPolito]

Atom xl... Can you opine?

[@4000marcdman]

Anyone know why a 160.00 HAM HT will put out 10w and the equivalent GMRS HT from the same company for the same price will only put out 5.5w? Wouxun for example KG-UV9P $149.00 9-10w vs KG-935G $149.00 5.5w

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The UV9P and 935G are not equivalent.. Not even close, other than both coming from Wouxun and both having a black plastic case.

[@4000marcdman]

@@TheNotaRubicon I was mainly referring to the power difference at the same price point. I'm new I can't really tell the difference in all the technical features cross repeat and so on

[@bettersaferadio]

GMRS has strict SAR (Specific Absorption Ratio) RF safety limits. Ham requires a license test, most of which consists of safety questions, so I guess they assume a Ham with a license knows not to expose themselves unnecessarily, although I've seen a few hams expose themselves after a long field day weekend and a couple six-packs - not recommended. ;)

[@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. 😦

[@stevenemert837]

Why do I suddenly have a craving for sardines?

[@treada1583]

i am just getting into this

[@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!).

[@TracyWolzfelt-pn8wg]

Thanks info

[@richardalford3324]

Ok I got the sardines

[@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?

[@archangel9114]

Do you ever BLINK 😄

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@christophersmith1155]

PLEASE PUT THE MOTOROLA ON THE WATT METER.

[@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.