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.

[@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.

[@jdolio]

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

[@daveoffroad7396]

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

[@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. 😂

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@Robnord1]

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

[@marcspaz]

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

[@marqueeviveiros8412]

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

[@enricofermi67]

Bruuhhh morons say bruuhh

[@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...👍👍

[@chrisrock340]

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

[@ephjaymusic]

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

[@tnewdad]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@billruttan117]

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

[@philipgauthier3570]

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

[@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.

[@wendiig0]

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

[@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.

[@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 ??????

[@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!

[@KeyBored101]

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

[@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

[@bikemannc]

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

[@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!👌

[@glasswinder]

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

[@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!

[@rodolfolat4541]

Thank you for education about GMRS. God bless.

[@begooglybegrudged8070]

Thanks Randy - You're a good Elmer

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@Sonicgott]

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

[@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."

[@propdoctor21564]

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

[@nomore1007]

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

[@kaybee1956]

Thank YOU. Well done

[@robv60]

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

[@Greg-et2dp]

Nota Rubic your utube videos are awesome my friend

[@davidyummus6259]

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

[@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

[@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!).

[@GEAE_Denny_L]

Perfect presentation !

[@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

[@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!!

[@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😊

[@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.

[@FrJohnBrownSJ]

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

[@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

[@judgedurham2009]

Good morning from Shropshire UK 🇬🇧

[@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 .

[@nyquil762]

Great video. Thanks

[@dvalinut]

Love the shirt😂🤣😃

[@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..

[@byrondaniels421]

I continue to learn at the knee of The Master.

[@hanscloss4063]

Thanks, plane and simple

[@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.

[@xfree143]

Your intro's are great!

[@russellguyton3109]

I love your shirt.

[@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.

[@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!!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.)

[@dangercloseprotocol]

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

[@jnelson16701]

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

[@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?

[@dennishrusecky7549]

Randy, you are the man.

[@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

[@jerridwichmann]

Love the videos keep up the good info

[@freeidaho-videos]

Thank you! Roger-Beep

[@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.

[@mandbsovereign]

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

[@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?

[@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.

[@Nope145]

Great video.

[@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.

[@Marty48034]

Yes!! I'm the favorite viewer!!

[@Chris-ro8ft]

Grate video Randy; very informative.

[@kidvision564]

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

[@eminence_front6043]

Good information.

[@tallyjbud]

Love this guy

[@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 .

[@richardmace2956]

Randy would you recommend finding a GRMS Club not seeing very many repeaters out here in East Texas.

[@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

[@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.

[@treada1583]

i am just getting into this

[@jamescasello8100]

Randy for President !!

[@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.

[@matthewlangley5565]

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