My Top Three Prepper Radios for 2024

[@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.

[@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!

[@DanielHallmark]

The digital communications he is talking about does *not* require an internet connection. There are long-range digital modes that are HF-ompatible and provide direct radio-to-radio communications with zero intermediate infrastructure - no internet, no hotspots, no repeaters, no cellular, no satellite. Further, these modes can and will get through and be received when band conditions do not permit clear SSB voice reception. As an example, JS8Call got through the Cuban 40m jamming a few years back which rendered SSB voice comms unusable on that band (at least in some areas). If you depend on reliable long-distance HF comms, you absolutely owe it to yourself to get educated on HF digital modes. Specifically, look at JS8Call and NBEMS using the FLDIGI suite. Too many hams have knee-jerk reactions to the word "digital", assuming that this means "internet-based." It does not. Possibly, a better word to use would be HF "data modes", which I find does not carry those same negative connotations. p.s. if you are familiar with FT8, JS8Call provides keyboard to keyboard QSOs along with asynchronous message inbox and message relaying capability using the same low-power, weak-signal mode as FT8. For any given band and power setting you have available, JS8 will go farther and be more consistently readable and less vulnerable to interference and fading than SSB voice.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@Sean-AI7EQ]

Awesome! Happy New Year.

[@chrissewell1608]

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

[@randydinglehopper62]

very much looking forward to seeing how you refine and optimize around your goals using these tools. I like your approach!

[@TheTechPrepper]

More to come!

[@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.

[@_xdm]

I have the Yaesu VX-6R being delivered tomorrow. I feel much better about my purchase now, and look even more forward to getting it. Thanks!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have 5 of these that make you feel better about your purchase. It's a tank.

[@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.

[@kokohenker9439]

73 From Germany, Have a Good New Year 2024 and Stay Safe

[@TheTechPrepper]

73 from the Sonoran Desert. Do the same.

[@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.

[@Rx_56]

Yaseu FT-530, procured 1985 still use today with repeater function.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@jblewis8061]

I’ve only watched the first 1 minute of this video and I already know that this is going to be a great video and direction your going is the right the right one. I’m excited to see the content this year please keep up the great work!!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Now with the tools in place, we'll work on dialing in the practical aspects of communication. Cheers!

[@KM4ACK]

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

[@TheTechPrepper]

It will be an interesting ride. Cheers, bud.

[@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!

[@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

[@ke8mattj]

Great video as always. Thanks for all the ideas to improve on my plans, which are in place. Lol@ sad ham part. They always have to meltdown over something. Have a good new year.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. We're one day into this post and no sad hams. There are miracles. Have a great 2024!

[@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.

[@DominicMazoch]

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

[@nitekry]

Happy New Year!, Yup VX-6 Rocks, I have that, IC-705 and FT-891. We have kicked off Texas wide comms group. Just started first test almost total failure, but getting er going. I cry everytime my work throws out those Panasonic tablets and we are not allowed to have any. But definitely need to follow your progress for help.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Congrats on your Texas group. It's great to see communities like yours emerge 2024. Those tablets are great for radio field work if you can get your hands on one.

[@MrStanwyck]

Happy New Year Gaston.. I’m looking forward to your 2024 content.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy New Year! More on the way.

[@jameswilsin5348]

It’s fullly unlocked

[@ryany4326]

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

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's what my wife says, too.

[@k2cjbradio]

Excellent Gaston! Looking forward to your journey this year! Happy New Year to you too and 73 de K2CJB

[@TheTechPrepper]

It will be fun sharing this journey. Expect a whole lot more operating this year. 73

[@lancekilkenny721]

Happy New Year! Nice shirt, BTW. I have multiple of their holsters.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It was a Christmas gift from the family. I'll have to checkout out their holsters.

[@nikkodoesvr6442]

Happy new year Gaston, your videos have made me purchase the VX-6R as my main radio for search and rescue. keep up the amazing content. Can't wait to see where this new approach goes. 73 de KE8YHX

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it. These things are tanks. Feel free to share if you run into any issues with them as part of your SAR work.

[@Swamp-Fox]

I look forward to the changes and focus-shift. Happy New Year Gaston!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Excellent. Thanks for the support. Happy 2024. Thanks for the NiFOG!

[@heavi-armed-infadel]

Awesome, looking forward to the your information bro

[@TheTechPrepper]

More coming. Thanks.

[@dimitdamnit]

🎉 Happy New Year Gaston! Like the new focus! Talk with you soon!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Ditto. Cheers, my friend.

[@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.

[@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.

[@wheeler7973]

As always great information. Happy New Year Gaston

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy new year!

[@RESlusher]

Happy New Year, Gaston! I look forward to seeing what you're up to in the new year!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy new year! More to come.

[@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.

[@bradl2636]

Happy New Year from Perth mate..!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Cheers!

[@813sierravictor]

Looks like a good approach. Looking forward to the content.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Stay tuned. Thank you.

[@jameswilsin5348]

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

[@vickisoup]

You were speaking English and I was hearing Klingon. I can tell I need to do some foundational research to know what I need 😁

[@DavidsDoseofItaly]

Klingon 😆

[@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.

[@Eric10179]

Man, the moustache-goatee combo (picture on the right) is absolutely deadly 👌🏻😎

[@TheTechPrepper]

That seems to be favorite. I am considering rocking that instead of the full beard this year.

[@willian.direction6740]

Happy to hear you are still using JS8Call with your 818. I think its a great portable combo with that particular software. Regards vk5cz ..

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am actually planning on making some modifications to JS8Call in the coming quarter. It will be open to the community. I just want to fix a few usability issues that bother me as a daily operator.

[@ivandubinsky1857]

The FT-818 is one of the most versatile radios out there. I certainly love mine.

[@mikemcdonald5147]

wow you look better without the beard, younger

[@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.

[@K6SUD]

Excellent video!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, bud!

[@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.

[@rickjones957]

Love the “tactical” getup😂😂😂

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

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

[@ralphebrandt]

I have nor seen your channel before but I am 2 of 3 in agreement with you except I have the VX-7 which is very nearly functionally the same as the VX-6 and the Anytone 868 which is the older model of the 878. When i bought the VX-7 i was looking at the 6/7 and a 7 came available used at a good price and it came open. I have not used that but it is great to have available. I remember the 878 was just put when I bought the 868 and did not see any features in the 878 that I considered worth 40 dollars. I can say your two choices make lots of sense. I do not have any use for a backpack multi mode, I have the 857 which is pretty much the same bands and modes, if i were to go to backpacking it would be the 818 and I do not see any new models I like, if replacing right now i would be looking at a 857 or 818 depending on projected use. One of my friends' backpacks and has the 818 and is thrilled with it. The 857 is heavier, has more power and higher battery drain even when set to low power and the the battery is not built in - so not really suitable for backpacking. One comment on the VX-6, i built a battery holder for the VX-7 in a small digital camera case - used 2 4-AA holders in series with a plug to fit in the charging port. Unless the 6 is different the 7 will transmit full power when plugged in to it. I did that because AA are more readily available than other sizes and pack a lot more power than AAA. I looked at the weight of C and it was more than what I would want to carry. K3HQI. PS, my mobiles are FT8900 FM only but my home rig is built on a case, unhook 3 PL259 and the AC, I close it, and walk out with a FT-857, ft8900. a signallink and a power supply. I have a 22 foot mast and 2m 70cm HF antennas in the car - a foot to drive on or the ability to stake it with 3 guys. Look up my mast setup. Until recently i was active in Search and rescue and this was designed to support that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipqXd2StrdCtb6M

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome. The VX-7R is a great radio. It's nice having the quad band and dual VFO capabilities. I also have an 8900. It's the perfect combo with the VX-7R. That is my favorite mobile rig (the Kenwood D710 comes in second) I did a video on my 8900 manpack about a year go. 73

[@billryland6199]

My VX-6R is my favorite handheld. I wish a larger battery pack were available. My FT-891 is my long range portable and standby rig.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's a great unit. Cheers to another VX-6R owner.

[@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!

[@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.

[@applepie2775]

Gaston! Thanks as always for your work and your channel. One thing: on your advice given last year for best one radio to have I bought a used FT857d, but listening to you today it sounds like you have changed your “best” recommendation. I’m confident that you steered me well with my 857d purchase, but now you have me wondering what my second radio should be. Any additional clarification in light of my comment today would be appreciated, but whatever the case please keep up the great work!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Let me clarify. I have no intention of selling of my Yaesu FT-857D. I still believe it is the perfect prepper radio given its power capabilities and support for all modes on all bands. It's basically a larger FT-818ND with more power. I will go back to it when the solar cycle takes a dip in a few years. For now, I am fine with just 5 watts with the mode that I plan to focus in this year which is JS8Call. If I planned to do more SSB voice this year, the 857 would be a must. This is why the title is "My Top Three" radios. Everyone's needs are different. The FT-857D is a much more versatile radio. Last year, I found myself using the FT-857D and always running it at 1 or 5 watts. To save space and weight, I'll be running the 818ND. Trust me, the 857D is a keeper, if I don't plan on using it much this year.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@turdferguson2863]

Happy New year

[@TheTechPrepper]

Happy new year! You have a solid avatar image! The Jeopardy parody on SNL came up on our last member stream. Suck it trebek!

[@cecilthorn2687]

I just got the FT-857d because you said it was your favorite and it was one of the ones on your list of radios for EmComm tools. I know you said in the video you only listed 3 radio. But I would hope you keep the FT-857d on the list for EmComm

[@TheTechPrepper]

I consider the 818 and the 857 to be basically the same radio in terms of capabilities. The only difference is power output. I have no plans on getting rid of the 857. I simply plan to mostly operate this year using the three radios mentioned. The 857 is still supported in EmComm Tools.

[@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.

[@aperson1181]

so especially at these times during grid down Hurricanes Helene, what radio(s) would you recommend to always have?

[@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.

[@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..

[@watchingforhisreturn4709]

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

[@ItsEverythingElse]

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

[@TheTechPrepper]

You need to take the AuxComm training.

[@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.

[@ag1382]

Don’t worry about the 6 watts. If you have to use the 818, after a day or two it will be a mega station with proper antenna.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The antenna system makes all the difference.

[@justawfulgamer7738]

Best off grid comms would be CW.

[@CIA_Alien]

Hi Gaston, isn't it the antenna that gives you the most communication range? Lastly, what radio would you recommend to use to bridge w/ Starlink that's fairly ruggedized especially in rain cold in Alaska?

[@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?

[@butsukete1806]

What caliber do these take?

[@_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

[@tangobayus]

For many people, any CB radio is better than no radio.

[@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.

[@lampshadesneeded]

Please review the top prepper dilators for transprepping

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@alanstone8440]

I love my a VX-6R. Can you advise which video showed how to program the emergency frequencies? Are you no longer using the TNC?

[@TheTechPrepper]

These days I do all of my digital work with the DigiRig Mobile on the 818ND manpack. I do not like having a mess of cables coming out of my HT. Also, the with DigiRig on the 818ND, I can work every digital mode on HF/VHF/UHF. Again, this is just my preference. I still have Mobilinkd TNC4 in my EDC bag, but I almost never used it.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@jameswilsin5348]

Got 1000 Chanel’s two

[@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.

[@DonaldChapman]

6m too? I came straight to the comments section at 1:34 once I heard that too! Please somebody confirm or correct this statement! 73

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, it will transmit on 6m. However, I've heard that is at reduced power. I do not have the equipment to verify how much RF output.

[@DonaldChapman]

@@TheTechPrepper Awesome, thanks for the prompt reply, I have been wanting to get one of these since I started watching your videos. I think this just pushed me over the edge! Happy New Year!

[@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.

[@homersaypian3798]

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

[@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.

[@cheristevens2706]

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

[@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