My Top Three Prepper Radios for 2024

After 4 years of operating, I have finally landed on my top three prepper radios. These are based on my personal needs, area and communications goals.
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Membership - www.buymeacoff...
PLAYLISTS
* Manpack - • ARMOLOQ - TPA Pack Frames
* VX-6R - • Yaesu VX-6R
* DMR - • DMR Series
* No Random Contacts - • No Random Contacts Series
#thetechprepper #prepper #radio

[@stevemclaughlin9436]

What gets you found be people you don’t want finding you? You want to gather information but you don’t want to be tracked.

[@kerbalairforce8802]

Maybe look into SDR radios. You can get a lot of info from a receive only radio.

[@markt.3454]

Hi Gaston. I like this approach. I'm not in a position to get a new radio every time a "better" one comes out. I see too many hams with an amazing stable of radios and very limited skills outside their particular favorite part of the hobby, and almost no emcom skills. Digital comms skill building and creating an off-grid library of documentation are my focusses this year.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it. The other problem with having more than a couple of radios is decay of muscle memory. I can't tell you how many times that I've have forgotten how to carry out simple tasks on a radio that has been on the shelf for as little as a few months.

[@griddownpowerup]

Great content as always! If you're looking to explore these topics even further, we actually produced an award-winning documentary called Grid Down Power Up - Documentary, narrated by Dennis Quaid, that dives deep into these issues. It’s available for free on our channel, and you might find it really insightful. We also have some resources on our website for taking action, like contacting legislators and public utilities. Please help us spread the word.

[@kg4gav]

I am excited to see the progress with this focused philosophy of use this year. I am also excited to see you going with the Anytone vs the Motorola gear. I am in radio for similar mission objectives, though with some slightly different radios, and like you, I intend to run what I already have. I have the Anytone 868UV and 878UV Plus, which are older versions, but were also significantly less expensive but I believe will handle the same base things the other models will. I have also subbed in the Xeigu G90 for the 818. It has a similar form factor, but includes a built in tuner and 20 watts. We will see how it holds up to field use. My main analog is an FT60 which I have had since it was released, but I do plan to add the VX6 soon, as it adds significant capabilities that the 60 does not.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I love the build quality of the Motorola XPR line, but there are too many barriers to entry. If the AnyTone had a similar case construction, it would be a hit. They AnyTone checks most of the checkboxes for local, secure comms. Cheers!

[@Utubeisazzho]

I still can’t find the walkie talkie channels from sporting goods store pair…. in the baogang

[@butsukete1806]

What caliber do these take?

[@PaulMacpherson-zv2sh]

Im looking to buy 8nto the rugged radio,satelie cb & ham walkie phone space & antenna's or multi rigs is another minefield :-) help

[@nativetexan9776]

You realize that if nothing SHTF happens in a few short years, radios will advance again and those become outdated and you will have to choose again, right?

[@flightstatic4662]

not really how that works lol

[@jonathanstevey1748]

Not how that works at all.

[@ke8mattj]

They haven't really advanced at all. Look at how many still do not have USB-C for programming and charging as an example.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have to disagree here. The second radio, the Yaesu FT-818ND, essentially came out 20 years ago (817) and has proven to be a very reliable video. Mine was purchased in 2019 and will like be going strong in 2044 and beyond. Radio theory and physics will not change, so this radio if maintained, will likely be a lifetime tool. I am done chasing the new tech.

[@NAPELAKAPU]

Living in and on an island nation in the middle of the Pacific, short range communications is just not enough for emergency communications. Need for effective and effective long range communications is a must. Will not get rid of SSB in my go kit. It will always be an effective tool outside of 50 miles. Digital communications is fine only if you have a connection. The devastating Lahaina, Maui fire and 1946 and 1960 tsunami proved that for us.

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's the trick. Tailor your communications gear to your needs and particular area of operation. There is no "one size fits all". Good luck!

[@HamRadio2]

So adding a MARS Mod to the VX-6R will open up 6M on that HT, essentially making it a VX-7R? What is the power output on the 6R after the MARS Mod?

[@DonaldChapman]

I came straight to the comments section at 1:36 once I heard that too! Please somebody confirm or correct this statement! 73

[@TheTechPrepper]

It will transmit on 6m FM with the MARS mod, but I do not have the equipment to verify the actual output power. Be advised that the VX-6R is not dual VFO like the VX-7R. Also, you do not get full power with Alkaline battery pack. For my needs, it's still a keeper.

[@ryany4326]

Wow, you look so much more professional without all that hair on your face !

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's what my wife says, too.

[@elsa9026]

Hey, tech prepper, love your content, thanks so much for the video! I am new to radios in terms of prepping but I have a plan for what I want whilst I am prepping everything else (canned food, bug out bag, med kits etc.) My plan is to have a standard size/emergency radio for the house so that family can listen to important stations during SHTF if I am still at my home! Similar to Canadian prepper's Kaito KA700! I just need one that uses batteries instead of USB in case power goes down! I am now also thinking of getting 3, 2 way radios (the walkie talkie type ones) that allow people to communicate, so I may go for the Yeasu VX-6R! I now have a few questions if i may: 1) What is the price of the Yeasu VX-6R? 2) What home/emergency radio would you recommend that uses batteries? Thanks again and god bless you bro!

[@TheTechPrepper]

The VX-6R is about $250 USD. It has a AA battery tray accessory. Available as a separate purchase.

[@WR3ND]

Happy New Year! Good to see you're not chasing the consumerism hypester bandwagon. It's nice being able to settle with high quality, reliable, and/or capable gear for the sense of peace of mind it brings. Even if you don't end up having to rely on it, you know you could. Cheers.

[@TheTechPrepper]

This by far my favorite comment. This has the added benefit of being kinder on the pocket book. Cheers to savings in 2024 and focusing on gear that already works.

[@griddownpowerup]

Awesome content! If you're looking to explore these topics even further, we actually produced an award-winning documentary called Grid Down Power Up - Documentary, narrated by Dennis Quaid, that dives deep into these issues. It’s available for free on our channel, and you might find it really insightful. We also have some resources on our website for taking action, like contacting legislators and public utilities. Please help us spread the word

[@BryanWicks]

Happy New Year, Gaston! Here’s to a great year of practical prepping and prosperity. 73 from Southwest Oklahoma!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy new year! 73 from Arizona.

[@baron1c]

Why did you circle back to the anytone over the motorola xpr series?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good question. The Motorola gear accessories were too expensive, only monoband, CPS is a pain to get, the entitlements are pain to get, and I was never able to get the AES-256 entitlement.

[@kc8owl]

I love and look forward to the dialed-in focus for 2024! The platform selection represents hardware that is easily attainable by many. Time to go deep(er) as opposed to wide(er). 73!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Exactly. Let's see how this plan comes together.

[@bluenetmarketing]

Tech Prepper - Curious what sort of business are you in?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm a technical consultant specializing in web content management and enterprise search.

[@chrissewell1608]

I have a Yaesu VX-7R, with over 20 years of radio life!.... and 3 or 4th new LCD screen!

[@notshared2543]

I wouldn't mind seeing content with the ol 2980. I'm wondering if the bluetooth features on the Anytone could be used to interface with phone/tablet to do cableless digital shenanigans.

[@jakep5121]

That 2980 is such a little tank of a radio!

[@nicke.3011]

My first 'real' radio is the 2980. Simple yet robust and clean. Nails tx/rx with a dedicated 2m Diamond.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The FT-2980 is an amazing radio. For the last year, I have just been using it as a dedicated packet station. It works with the no maintenance. I love tools that just work.

[@seantran4178]

One question, is it true for The AnyTone 878 UV II Plus comes with Bluetooth? I heard these hams radio can connect to mobile device for texting.?

[@BreadyMan-d9s]

Please don't go with the uv5r get the uv9r its more waterproof and dust proof so is more durable and the same for a couple bucks more i have other radios for emergency situations

[@kerbalairforce8802]

All of my relevant friends for a rainy day are within 10 miles, so im leaning towards Baofengs, directional antenna, and possibly supplemental Meahtastic devices. Always love seeing better setups though!

[@TheTechPrepper]

More power to you. Everyone's needs are different. Comms become easier when you only need to deal with very range. Good luck!

[@_sandie_123]

I have the 878dmr I’m surprised you chose that over the yaesu my first 878 was sent back under warranty as it went deaf the company couldn’t give me an idea what had gone wrong but sent me a replacement which I’ve hardly used

[@RevMark]

About that commercial radio license, some brief insight and direction would be welcome. What type of type of license am I looking for? Thanks.

[@Kq4hcuDan]

I have a ft-817 still learning how to use it and its frustrating for me to use. I really should get a elmer to help me out, but i sus the radio club in my area. I just want to chew the rag, CW stationary and portable and try winlink.

[@watchingforhisreturn4709]

Curious, why the anytone vs the btech version? Btech fixes the firmware issues...

[@Kq4hcuDan]

I came late into radios, im still a tech that will update it to general and obtain GMRS license. 73 kq4hcu

[@KarenHolt-f8y]

I need help. I purchased the my emergency radios and we cannot figure them out. Cant get up with the company. Guys this is $500 down the drain if i cany find someone to help. Im on disability with two teen boys at home. So that was a lotta money to tjrow out. Tia

[@RandomStranger69]

I’m new to Amateur radio I’ve always had a buy once cry once mindset though. Would the ICOM ID-52 be a good radio?

[@FoxtrotGear]

Thoughts on the TYT MD-UV390 since you get IP67?

[@jameswilsin5348]

I gota quan Sheng that will go from .100 up to 1000mhz and it’s a try band

[@jameswilsin5348]

I gota quan Sheng that will go from .100 up to 1000mhz and it’s a try band

[@kyleisom]

Hey Gaston, I appreciate all the work you've been putting into this channel and the EmComm tools. How do you feel about the 578, particularly in a role as a mobile/manpack VHF radio? I've been debating picking one (from some of your previous videos, it seems like it fits what I'm looking for). I think my radio list right now is pretty much the same, though this week I think the VX-8DR has supplanted the VX-6 as my new favourite HT.

[@KM4ACK]

Will be interesting to watch progress with the Anytone. Happy New Year sir!

[@TheTechPrepper]

It will be an interesting ride. Cheers, bud.

[@SilentPrepperFL]

Thank You.. I appreciate this video... as someone that is also wanting to be prepared your comments on "UNLOCKING" the ability to broadcast outside of band with one of your radios is appreciated... I have GMRS radios installed in my 2 vehicles (Midlands), CB Radios installed on each as well, as well as HTs... just because you never know... Great video! thank you.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It never hurts to have these capabilities. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@0MissElizabeth0]

_You played with your beard a little bit_ , whoa sir we dont need to know all that 😂

[@MichaelBurko]

@TheTechPrepper, Hi Gaston, what would you recommend as a replacement for the discontinued Yaesu FT-818ND?

[@TheTechPrepper]

There's isn't anything with these features in this for factor. Research the IC-705. I personally do not like the 705 based on my needs. However, I am pretty sure that Yaesu is going to release a successor to the FT-818ND in the next year or two..

[@michaelwelsh6820]

CW is the much better option! 73 VK4CCW

[@chrisnelson414]

What will you do when solar activity goes down? At that point you might need a little more transmit power, so maybe a small amp or 100W HF rig may come in handy.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have a twin manpack setup based on the 100w Yaesu FT-857D. I will transition to it at that time. For 2024, it looks like I will be more than covered by the 6 watts on the FT-818ND.

[@ItsEverythingElse]

Where do you get that spiral bound NIFOG manual? Can't find it anywhere.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You need to take the AuxComm training.

[@nats50]

Looks like you're only for high-end preppers, using only Yaesus, no Chinese "junk" like Baofengs, no GMRS radios or frequencies, and the like.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I started with a Baofeng. They kept breaking out in the field after a few hundred miles. Radios are just tools. Everyone's needs are different. Pick the one that is right for your needs and budget.

[@drnv150]

I would recommend an Icom IC-7100 and even a Yaesu FT-857, I have used the IC-7100 for over 5 years and the FT-857 for over 25 years in the truck both work excellent portable, started using the 7100 in 2016 when the solar cycle was not great and still managed to rack up contacts all over the world, and across the U.S. before the current solar cycle improvements to 15, 10 & 6 meters. I am usually on 20 & 40 meters and 75 & 80 meters for around the U.S. Thanks for the interesting videos, good luck and 73👍

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have two FT-857Ds in the same manpack configuration as the FT-818ND shown. The 857 is overkill for the work that I am doing this year. Although, it will come out when we go into a solar minimum.

[@DominicMazoch]

To keep your various wires and patches from tangling up, pit them in zipper type lunch nags. You can see exactly what you are looking for.

[@hambilly-radio]

That is cool that you are focusing on your top three prepper radios for 2024! Love my Anytone 878 - I recently learned that the Anytone implementation of AES-256 uses THE SAME initialization vector to start encryption initially, which significantly weakens the encryption. But it may be good enough for your use case. I hope Anytone fixes it because that’s a game changer at the 878’s price point if they fix it.

[@aaronakiyama]

It's already been fixed on the 578 so I imagine it'll be coming for the 878 soon.

[@TheTechPrepper]

There is already a fix for the 878, but I am holding off until I see the impact of the firmware from the broader community.

[@aaronakiyama]

​@@TheTechPrepper oh I didn't realize a new version was out. I'll be a guinea pig 🤣

[@alanstone8440]

I like the idea of encryption, but am leaning to one time cypher pads as you can use on any radio and can control who has access to it.

[@aaronakiyama]

@@alanstone8440 OTPs are great if you're operating data modes. It's a bit clunky on voice. Having encrypted voice is a nice option. Ideally, have both available.

[@donalderickson-si8ww]

most ham operater's run ham radio and G M R S

[@cheristevens2706]

Ok so which one do i get if the rid goes down? Do i need a license to get them?

[@debestgamer4533]

So when it comes out is it only going to work on the 818 or will it work with other radios (Eventually) like with a G90,891,857, and others of such?

[@TheTechPrepper]

If you are referring to EmComm Tools, it already supports the G90 and FT-857D. The FT-891 support is coming via the new DigiRig Lite. The will be released in ETC R3 this year.

[@oleboy4332]

I need advice on what to get. My goal is to be able to communicate with family and allies in a SHTF scenario. Everyone is within 15 miles. Suburban area… what would you recommend? Thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

For that range you need HF. NVIS propagation is great for this. The gear I showed here works with your range. The challenge is going to be to get everyone in your group to get the gear, get licensed, train and have a plan.

[@allenb3007]

Would you replace the vx-6r with the new anytone 878 or keep both. Would you recommend the vx-7r over the vx-6r given both have mars mod? Thx great video too!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Personally, I am keeping both. They are complete different tools.

[@WladimirJr]

What is your opinion about ICOM 705?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Not a fan for my personal needs. I talked about this in my manpack series when I covered the FT-818ND manpack.

[@AI3W-Rick]

Gaston, off topic a bit, but can you explain how you might want to field charge your VX-6 via LiFePo4 battery and/or solar? Thanks, and I really like your down to earth style vs. others KZbinrs who think they need to make a video with so much drama, you’d think they are vying for an Emmy or Oscar.

[@angelscomputers]

I personally go with the 878 on top of the Yaesu because in an SHTF situation I rather go with encrypted vs a “rugged” radio. That’s just me only thinking in SHFT where the rules are out the board

[@TheTechPrepper]

In mind, there is no one versus the other. They are different tools. The VX-6R is great for passive signal intelligence given the wideband capabilities. In fact, all three of these are different tools.

[@alanstone8440]

I agree, the VX-6R is a tank. Taking it over to HRO to have it MARS modified. @@TheTechPrepper

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@alanstone8440Great call. My original unit still needs the MARS mod, but I am debating whether take it in to HRO for $35 or just do it myself. It's a must have addition.

[@reynoldspc]

My wife has the 818, I've got the 857. We both have the Anytone 878. I'm still playing around with the DigiPi, not 100% yet. My wife retires in June, I'm already there (55 is a magical age!). We'll be able to do more testing after June, so will hopefully get the DigiPi ironed out. Have a great 2024. 2M0ILA and MM7TPP

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers to a husband and wife radio team. That's a great combo between the two of you. I have an FT-857D too, but the power output is overkill for my needs this year. I'll pull it out when we dip into a solar minimum. Enjoy retirement.

[@piedmontwildlifeandoutdoors]

Why the Anytone and not TYT?

[@homersaypian3798]

I’m on the lookout for an FT-857D and then I’m done.

[@braddephataz]

For your VX-6R do you prefer the mobilinkd or digirig mobile, if you had to choose one.

[@TheTechPrepper]

DigiRig hands down as it's more versatile. The Mobilinkd only does packet.

[@DovidStern]

Question: Given that the APRS on the Anytone is mostly useless, especially when APRSDroid exists, and that it's only IP54 rated, why not go for the Ailunce HD1 instead? It's also DMR, has a built in GPS (if you buy the GPS model) so you get that aspect of DMR capability, and its IP67 rated. Also it's $100 cheaper.

[@Sparkfly88]

Hd1 is far worse than the 878. I have both. He also uses the 878 with AES256 encrypted with his business license.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I had an Ailunce HD1 a couple of years ago and gave it away to a viewer as a prize. At that time, I was not prepared to jump into DMR yet. Sadly, since the 878 is working for me, I will not be going back to re-evaluate the HD1, unless the 878 dies on the trail. I did like the more rugged construction of the HD1 and the IP rating. The battery life was amazing on the HD1, too.

[@DovidStern]

I was looking into it for myself as a replacement for the 878, so I'm interested - what's worse about it? True about the encryption, had forgotten about that.

[@DovidStern]

Thanks for the reply. I remember that video. Makes sense. Progress with what you have rather than continually reevaluating and becoming paralyzed.

[@johnperez7447]

The last video I saw he was saying that Motorola was better than the any tone talk about confused I like your videos however, my Wallet is getting thin.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The Motorola radios are more robust and much better tools, but you need to have more patience to get the CPS software and chase down all the entitlements. If you have time, money and experience, the Motorola line is a superior radio. Everything is a trade off. Time is a precious commodity, so I'm personally focusing the radios that offer the most utility while meeting most of my operating criteria. I'm putting my MotoTRBO project on hold for this year.

[@DonzLockz]

Great choices Gaston. Yes, I agree with you on JS8 call. Happy New Year and hope to see a bunch of videos this year. Take care my friend.👍🤠

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy new year! I appreciate the support!

[@Kens1966]

I bought dye for my beard. It was so dark I looked like groucho marks lol

[@TheTechPrepper]

Wait... do I need to take care of those grey beard hairs?

[@jameswilsin5348]

Got 1000 Chanel’s two

[@mikemcdonald5147]

wow you look better without the beard, younger

[@jesusmartinez4094]

I have nonidea wherw to start

[@aaronakiyama]

I've been on HF for several years now and have never made an SSB voice contact. I went straight to digital and I like it there.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Keep at it.

[@jakep5121]

Now that I have a bunch of baller radios... imma stop chasing radios too. ;)

[@Pops_607]

Why not the motorola dmr? The 878 is not water resixtant..

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have several XPR-6550 and XPR-7550e radios. There is a long list of why not... 1. The CPS programming software is difficult to obtain. 2. Tracking down and paying for the entitlements is a pain. 3. Motorola does NOT want to see you an entitlement for encryption for the XPR-7550e in the US 4. The accessories are very expensive 5. These are monoband only. 6. To use the on amateur radio you need the 25kHz entitlement. ... There is simply too much effort with not enough value.

[@MaritimeHomesteader]

Hey Gaston I hope all is well. Have you ever done a video on Meshtastic? I did a search but didn't see any. Just wondering if you have, or have heard of it or tried it. Thanks bud

[@TheTechPrepper]

Negative. I am aware of it. I'll tackle it next year. This year is all about foucs...no more chasing tech.

[@Tony-iz8qn]

Thank you for sharing your journey in this. It helps to meditate a lot of mistakes one might make with the plethora of equipment out there versus the actual knowledge transfer of skills and experience. Keep it up sir

[@rubbercheck72]

Nice taint brush.

[@anonymous_friend]

I think its worth the extra weight to have the power of the 857d or icom 706.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Honestly, based on my focus on HF, JS8 and given the solar cycle, the 857 is just too much weight/bulk and consumes too much power. I'll transition to it when we go into our solar minimum.

[@anonymous_friend]

@@TheTechPrepper Will you know what the solar cycle is during shtf? It's a variable I'm not going to factor.

[@DominicMazoch]

I have my Ic703plus as a bqckup. 10w. No U/VHF, but has tunner. And sippscpower.

[@yamez69]

For those on a budget, for short range communications, I use the Baofeng DR-1801 UV DMR HT or analog Quansheng UV K5 (8), that has FM scrambling. Meshtastic combined with RAK and/or Lilygo products. With any product, always check the SWR of antennas using a NanoVNA. Have a predetermined plan with known contacts.

[@justawfulgamer7738]

Best off grid comms would be CW.

[@alanstone8440]

Thanks for the inspiration. I've decided (if I can find one at a reasonable price) to get a ICOM 7000 for my man pack. HF + UHF/VHF 100 watts. Been wanting an 878 and you sold me on it. The antenna I went with for manpack is the JNC-750 from DX Engineering. How to contribute to your BUY ME COFFEE? Can the 878 have a MARS MOD. It's hard doing off grid in NH because of the lack of preppers.

[@briankendall1978]

Is there a video where you discussed why you went back to the Anytones over the Motorola? After watching your video on the TCPIP connection with the Motorola radios, I thought for sure you would never go back to a Chinese radio. If not would you mind doing a video explaining why you switched back to the Anytone?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I discussed this topic on Saturday's member live stream. I will like do a video on why I am taking a pause from the Motorola XPR line for the timing being. It should be coming soon.

[@lampshadesneeded]

Please review the top prepper dilators for transprepping

[@ralphebrandt]

I missed one question. what platform do you run the JS8Call on? WIn/PI,?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Primarily on Linux (95% of the time) , but I will run it on Mac (4%) or Windows (1%) on occasion.

[@BruceForster-k9n]

My Two FT-65's are my EDC Radios. They are VERY Tough, capable, and affordable. Yes, I could have a stable of Baofengs, but I want a Radio that is built to Spec, and I KNOW will work when I need it! There ARE Videos on KZbin that show how to do the keystroke mod to open its up. You setup a couple of these on an FRS or GRS Channel, and with 5 Watts, you can really get some distance.

[@beverlytim]

Will these radio receive and transmit over 100 miles as the crow flys?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, under the right conditions, power and antenna.

[@beverlytim]

@@TheTechPrepper great. Is there a way to one on one with you? I have to many questions to type. Thanks

[@MarkW126]

Where'd you get that copy of NIFOG? I haven't seen a small sprial bound copy before.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You can order them after taking the AUXCOMM. A supporter sent me this copy.

[@MarkW126]

@@TheTechPrepper DHS AUXCOMM? I think I passed that a dozen years ago. I had to do NIMS training and I think this was part of it. I'll have to see if I can find the details. Thanks.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@MarkW126 The only details have is AUXCOMM. Good luck hunting it down.

[@steher]

If there was no FT 818ND, what would be an alternative? It's always a possibility so I'm sure you've thought about it.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Take a look at the IC-705. I am personally not a fan of that radio for many reasons I have discussed this on the channel. However, it is a more modern radio, is currently available, and supports some really nice features like an integrated sound card, CAT control and GPS. The 705 drives my crazy for three reasons based on my style of operation: 1) too delicate; 2) touch screens do not work with sweaty hands; 3) wrong form-factor for a manpack. Again, everyone's needs are different. It's worth taking a look.

[@BruceForster-k9n]

I have a VX-6, and I Love it! I also have an FT-4, Two FT 65's and a VX-8. The VX-8 is in an EMP protected enclosure. I DO want a Second VX-6 as well. Since there are NO 220 MHz Repeaters where I live, there is a HUGE Tactical advantage to having that Pair! The VX-8 IS my Go To SHTF Handheld.

[@drewrinella1646]

No... new... radios... what means these words?

[@drewrinella1646]

Guys what is he talking about? I'm scared.

[@greyman5590]

😂 In other words you’re broke…

[@TheTechPrepper]

No. just working on using what works. There is a happy benefit of additional savings.

[@Mojave511]

Very good points! I'm guilty of being on the "hypester bandwagon". Love that term! I'll try to do better in '24. Best from K1MLG

[@jameswilsin5348]

It’s fullly unlocked

[@tannerconley5731]

Would you still recommend the ft60 or is it worth it to drop the extra cash on the vx6r?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, I would absolutely still recommend it the FT-60. I kept all three of mine. It's time tested and a very reliable radio. If you need better protection against the elements and want to listen to a wider range of bands, then upgrade to the VX-6R. I am still carrying the VX6 daily for all my backcountry work. Enjoy making the decision.

[@tannerconley5731]

I would say the real reason I'm leaning towards the ft60 is it's receivers sensitivity in rf heavy environments and lack of output drop when doing the mars mod. I have a gmrs plan in place for family sustainment locally which would be a nice redundancy. Do you find yourself using 6m, 1.25m and SW receive often enough to justify it in a HT?

[@Dan-bj1cz]

Hi are those radios good for when the grid goes down

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, that's the only reason why I am into radio. These are all for different offgrid scenarios.

[@Brood_Master]

Wow... you look so different. I thought you were someone else looking at the thumbnail.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The new (temporary) look had the same reaction at a New Year's party with the neighbors. They thought that my wife had a new boyfriend on the side. ;-)

[@TrenchKraft]

Are you still using your Yaesu FTM-6000 and if so, what types of applications are you using it for?

[@TheTechPrepper]

Negative. I plan to sell it in a couple of weeks. It's a fine radio for things like local repeater, simplex, packet, and NBEMS work. It would be an interesting radio to test M17 with the Mobilinkd TNC4 since it supports 9600 baud with the TNC.

[@pa1863]

Thanks for the info. I have one in my truck. Great basic radio. My buddies all carry GMRS HT’s so I have the MARS mod in case I need to use GMRS for a life threatening emergency in the remote areas where we hunt.

[@roylafromboise9190]

You can also get 220on that radio

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's a great band. It's definitely under used. I love it for opsec especially when operating split on simplex. Cheers.

[@redinator9896]

I love the idea of a portable 100W HF radio that doesn't draw too much current on receive. It must be a unicorn.

[@MikeBeauchamp]

Don’t forget that the 878 can also receive 220 in mode 14.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Great point.

[@newdefsys]

I had a coworker that got a haircut and a shave once a year, New Years Day. By December he looked pretty shaggy.

[@TheTechPrepper]

If you don't give up, most people will achieve proper epic beard status by December. Cheers!

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

I have the anytone handheld. I have yet to use it in the desert. I now have 220 capabilities in the shack.

[@chunkylover54]

i got a vx6r but it does this weird thing where the squelch opens everytime i try to change frequencies or basically do anything on the radio. is this normal. i havent heard back from yaesu

[@TheTechPrepper]

This is not normal. I have three of VX-6Rs and have not experienced this.

[@chunkylover54]

@@TheTechPrepper yeah been researching. Sounds like a bad batch got out and this is a common problem for a few of us

[@jck197]

Can you recommend something that isn’t discontinued?

[@TheTechPrepper]

The VX-6R and AnyTone 878 are not discontinued. At this point, there is no radio that checks all the check box for proven reliability, size, form factor and weight for field work. However, the early details on the Lab599 TX-500 MP look promising. I've heard rumors that Yaesu is working on an IC-705 killer.

[@jck197]

@@TheTechPrepper How about something in the 50 Watt range?

[@jessp9693]

What antenna do you use for shortwave listening, just the stock antenna or something else?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I use a Cobra head (BNC) with whatever wire of lying around. If I am in the shack or in the field, I will also use whatever HF antenna I am running. I tend to mostly run either a dipole or EFHW.

[@ibuildsheds5654]

Anytone encryption is a joke

[@TheTechPrepper]

There is a new firmware fix for the static IV.

[@GoWokeGoBroke2023]

Communication with who?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm not sure what the question is here? I use radio to communicate with a support network for trusted operators across the state, region and US.