TESTED! Best GMRS Antennas on a budget. Smiley, Signal Stuff, Nagoya, Abbree all field tested!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

My actual Amazon Storefront is HERE! amzn.to/49uAefw As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which helps me buy more toys to review for all of you! I'm constantly updating the page. Here are most of the radios and antennas we test for all of you, and as always, I take requests!

[@jasonbrown8944]

You know, it's nice to finally see comparisons of different GMRS radios out in their elements. I'm so tired of seeing 50 unboxing videos I could throw up. Give me the 1 lone tester putting these radios through their paces with multiple antennas talking on simplex. That's where the REAL proof is on how they do. Subscribed!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Thanks Jason! I have a few that have field tests if you haven't seen yet.

[@jasonbrown8944]

​@@FirstUnitedTacticalyes I saw those as well. I also saw the new Wouxan review. And I'm liking that thing more and more.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@jasonbrown8944 So the 9gx is awesome, but, the 9px is the HAM version, and it can be unlocked. I'm not saying do that, but it's possible, and it works like a champ (ya know, if I had one).... may as well have the best of both worlds if you need a solid all around radio. Same price also. Please just use bettersaferadio.com/pro/first with anything you buy over there so I can get credit for it! Thanks!

[@paulswidaho7638]

These results are exactly as I would expect. The best antenna is a simple 1/4 wave whip. Those longer "gain" antennas have two problems. 1) they have too high of a radiation pattern making the near horizon a loss rather than a gain. 2) They need a match to their rather high impedance feedpoint, and that introduces loss on it's own. For the OEM antennas, if they are dual band then the clap trap involved with adding in a VHF band is going to negatively impact UHF...it has to. Pick your favorite 1/4 whip, just make sure it's as close to a simple 1/4 wave (about 6 inches) copper wire as you can find and be done. There are some on Amazon, I just won't mention them so it does not look like I'm pushing a given model which I am not.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Very nicely sad! Thanks!

[@joshjspice]

I love this. Knowing the why behind things that work is the gold in the mountain. Thanks for sharing!

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

I bought 2 TD H3's separately. The each came with a short and long antenna. The 4 total antennas are all different. Lol For GMRS, I think I'll get a couple Signal Stick 440's and call it good. Thanks for the great video.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@commonsensepatriot9450 Overall, the Smiley 5/8 slim duck outperforms the Signal Stick. My 440 collects dust and the Smiley goes everywhere my H3 goes! Don't use the extended antenna that is stamped 120, because it's for airband and you won't transmit at all... there's a lot of videos I use the H3 in, so make sure you look at more before spending any money. The Nagoya 771g is the best GMRS extended range also!

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

@FirstUnitedTactical thanks for all the great info.

[@javabeanz8549]

Which H3 package did you get? I saw a review that said the one sold as HAM is better than the one sold as GMRS, but they all switch back and forth.

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

@javabeanz8549 That may be the case. I ended up running Nigoya 771's for GMRS, and I have the 771 that came with one of the radios that works great for VHF. I just got a signal stick BNC connectors, and a mag mount for when I'm mobile from Signal Stuff. I haven't tested them yet, though. I also have an N9-Tax rollup J Pole on a 20 ft mast that works great for longer ranges. I feel like I have all the bases covered.

[@javabeanz8549]

@@commonsensepatriot9450 One of our club members demonstrated the N9TAX roll up dual band (2M/70cm) at the club meeting over the summer, pretty cool setup for going out hiking, or setting up a base camp. Another of our members has an actual Ed Fong J-Pole, and he has made some J-Poles out of house wire, and set up several of our other members with those. Any of the 771 style seem to work great, and the tacticals seem to do okay, and I think would be useful if you were out in the brush and trees. I think that the best antenna, is the one that works for what you are doing. If you need the range, the longer antennas seem to do best, if you don't need the range, something shorter would be more convenient. I am still looking over mobile antennas, but I have some little Bingfu magnetic mounts that do a satisfactory job for now. For the base station, I want to upgrade the coax next, LMR-400 or the equivalent. For HTs, I have most of the radios he shows, and a couple that he doesn't. It is interesting to see how the different radios and antennas work in different situations.

[@chrissewell1608]

I am subscribing. You just seem like a good guy!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Hey bud! I'm pretty down to Earth! Thanks Chris!

[@billr8564]

Great review and very informative, as always! Thank you! I currently have the TID H8 Ham, the TID H3 GMRS, and the Baofeng K5 Plus Ham. If you were to recommend 1 short range and 1 long range antenna for the H3, what would you suggest? Likewise, I would have the same question for the Baofeng and TID Ham radios, if you have done the same testing.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Hi Bill. Yes I have quite a few testing videos out there, especially with long range (771) antennas. Most of the guys buy a GMRS only radio, and in that case, I always recommend the Nagoya 771g, which is tuned for 465 MHz. But, your case is special because all three of your radios mentioned will talk HAM and GMRS. In this case, the Nagoya 771g wouldn't be your best option because you wouldn't transmit 2M very well (136 MHz range). For you case, I STRONGLY recommend the Diamond SRJ77CA extended range. This is the link that has the correct connection for Tidradios you have: amzn.to/4fSALdG I don't have a K5, so you have a 50/50 shot at it working on that one also. The Diamond is like a cousin to the Nagoya brand, but it primarily focuses on "Dual Band" which is 136 and 444 or thereabouts. It still performs flawlessly on GMRS. I also have multiple radios and most of mine are dual band that are unlocked for GMRS. Honestly, the factory Tidradio short rubber duck antennas are pretty good, but I use a Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck 465 on mine as the short antenna, and carry the Diamond or Nagoya in my truck as a backup. The link to that short range antenna is here: amzn.to/4ib7kFg If you are watching your money, just get the Diamond so you can easily communicate and receive far off on both frequencies.

[@ArturBerkut]

the best testing video so far!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I appreciate it Artur! This is actually an older one, so there are better ones since then. I've tried to combine the most popular radios with all the different common antennas throughout the months. Thanks though, and watch some others. If you want to see me comparing radios or antennas, just let me know and I will if I can!

[@thomasthewatchman]

I went all in for HAM and GMRS with signal stuff since they do so much to support the community! Their ham signal stick works with GMRS too!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@thomasthewatchman I've tried (and videoed) the 440 which is that 6" UHF antenna. It's pretty good.... I keep telling myself to get that long one that can twist, but I just keep finding other cool things to buy!

[@thomasthewatchman]

@@FirstUnitedTacticalit’s great if you’re using a DMR that maybe does both ham and GMRS! But I haven’t noticed a difference in GMRS between the long and short one

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@thomasthewatchman Good to know because I was worried I would waste my money on the long one. I will order one tomorrow and do a quick field test with it! Are you using that 5RM with it or a different one? I sent you an email earlier.

[@thomasthewatchman]

@@FirstUnitedTactical I replied about 15 mins ago :) I’ve got a bunch of the long signal stuffs. And two shorts. For GMRS my main 3 are 935G plus, HA1G, Tid H3. And they all work great with it! Would be a cool video to compare the two lengths for GMRS. My biggest complaint with the signal stuff is the one is so long haha. But it’s truly and totally reliable and I trust it over all others.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@thomasthewatchman Man that's good to know! I will definitely get one and say WHATS UUUUUP in the video!

[@SK-rj1ti]

Thank you for the video, David! I am surprised the orange Abbree worked so well on your H8. Mine must have been a lemon. Orange lemon at that:)

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Orange lemons! Ya know, it is an Abbree, and there are defects out there. Make sure the tip of your antenna is more of a point and not a blunt rounded tip. I've found that this is the easiest way to find out if you have a fake Nagoya. All of these aftermarket 771's are supposed to be somewhat of a point. If it looks like the factory short tidradio antenna, that's not good. The tidradio is the round blunt end and the 771 is supposed to be more pointy.

[@SK-rj1ti]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Interesting. I have never looked at the tips. But I look at the bottoms. If it looks like a beer bottle, it's probably a knock-off. If it looks like a bullet, it's a real deal. I have an entire shoe box of after-market antennas. All things considered, I get the best everyday performance out of Wouxun dual-band antennas even if we are talking about GMRS only. The same kind of antenna that comes with your UV9. Not too long, not too short, gets the job done. They come in both male and female configs. I don't want to drag it out by talking about the 771(g) and Smileys. You know how good those are. But the 701g is total cr...p, imho.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@SK-rj1ti because of your reply, I put my factory Wouxun 2/70 back on the 9 to listen again today! I know it's good, but I just stuck it in a drawer with all the others when I got it. I will do a field test with it and compare!

[@SK-rj1ti]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Great. I would be happy to see even if you prove me wrong, so that I don't fool myself or others.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@SK-rj1ti Plan it being the next, or next next video. I'm curious myself, but need decent weather to do a test like that.

[@TheChrist11]

Great video. Ordering 2 antennas from your line-uo. Also, I was wondering if you can help me with acquiring a new keyboard for my TD-H3 from Tidradio?? I was cleaning the screen with my shirt, rubbing on it a little rough, and some of the enamel paint rubbed off the top 4 buttons. Do you think it's possible to buy a replacement from Tidradio? I would gladly pay you for your help. 8 just hope I won't be charged too much, as I am a retired 69 year old, on a fixed income. Thank you for your time, Sir. God bless you and your family, 🙏

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@TheChrist11 I would go to Tidradio.com and send them an email through their support tab. I have received emails from them within a day before and they are very helpful. I don't work for them so I wouldn't have any say so.

[@NickFrom1228]

I have to agree on that Smiley antenna. I have the 5/8 on my uv9gx and the super stick on the px. This combination seems like a winner overall. Great vid. Thanks.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Thanks! Yeah, I keep a Smiley 5/8 on all my radios unless I am out in the country. Cool man!

[@ScottAlanAnthony]

Love the video, and all your work. Just wondering about the link you have posted for the Signal Stick 440. It appears to different from the one in the video.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@ScottAlanAnthony when u buy either of the sticks from Signal Stuff, you select which one from the drop down box towards the bottom. The 440 is the short 6" in this video. The 2m 70cm is the super long one for HAM.

[@ScottAlanAnthony]

@FirstUnitedTactical Ah! Thank you much sir.

[@MichaelBurko]

I love your videos, but I'm a little confused about this one. It seems like the Signal Stick performed the best here, but it was terrible in your previous video on GMRS antennas. If you had to choose one antenna from this review, which one would you choose for the longest range and versatility (possibly usable as VHF/UHF as well)?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Thanks! And boy that's a difficult question to answer. Let me first say the Signal 440 came out of no where and performed like a champ. That was totally unexpected and there is no way I would've guessed it based on past performance. My current setup is: (I always always always have a Nagoya 771g in my truck) but, radio wise right now, and daily: wouxun uv9gx with a Smiley 5/8 slim duck 465. My H3 also carries the Smiley 5/8 slim duck 465. If I'm in the country and need to hear better, I put the 771g on. I believe I would say the Smiley Super Stick 465 is the closest I have to a 2/70 range, but only when extended. It performs great collapsed on gmrs, but I've heard it works well on 2/70. In all reality, the Wouxun UV9Gx comes with a 2/70 antenna, but it is tuned a little better for 465 compared to other aftermarket 2/70. You're not the only one confused by this video! I almost went back to the 5 mile mark (yall didn't see) and do it from there just so the 440 didn't kick so much butt. But, at 5 miles with my uv9gx at the base with repeater, it pushed so much solid power you couldn't hear a difference on any radio with any antenna. That blew me away because it's normally the H8 that's the base. I don't have my 2/70 (tech) license yet, so I can't video myself testing those on even simplex channels. And honestly I never have. I will be going for my Tech maybe end of this month and then I can really show off some cool toys! Mayne I answered your question about antennas????

[@yungsmile7546]

​@@FirstUnitedTacticalYou're bound to like VHF more. Until you get your ticket you could use MURS.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@yungsmile7546 Yep! I hope to test in two weeks for my Tech (at least). I have a crazy work schedule and can't seem to get the time away to do it on those Saturdays it's scheduled. Believe me I'm trying!

[@nickl3872]

Thank you David.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Absolutely!

[@mrsmith324]

These GMRS radio videos are so excellent. Thank you. For shits and giggles, can you use the signal stick dual band which is longer? You would think it would change the performance sum by what I don't know. Sure would appreciate that. Thank you.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I have been getting a lot of requests actually for that longer Signal Stick. It's the one that you can twist up like a pretzel. Yes, I have one on the way and I will definately be doing some videos!!

[@johnmcadoo2747]

Great info

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@johnmcadoo2747 Thanks John. There's newer vids uploaded also with more tests. Check them out if you get a second

[@jesusdiaz1249]

Can you test antenas on Baofang UV-5RM and AR-5RM?🙏🏻

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@jesusdiaz1249 No because those are HAM radios and I only have my GMRS license. But honestly, the 5RM, 5RH and the 5g Plus are the same.

[@mmyr123]

I think you need a nanovna to determine the length you should pull the antenna out for gmrs. I'm not sure, but something to consider

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

You're right. One of our local guys in San Antonio reached out to me and said the sane thing. He told me that fully extended was more in range of 2/70. I didn't know that before the test, otherwise I would've done a more accurate length and explained it.

[@johnlew5972]

What was your conclusion on best 2 or 3 antennas?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@johnlew5972 That video was awhile back. I don't think this will ever change: Short antenna- Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck 465 Extended range- Nagoya 771g or Diamond SRJ77CA The Smiley is shorter than stock antennas and performs much better, and it's always good to keep a 771 extended range antenna just in case!

[@johnlew5972]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Thank you!

[@4x4le]

Is the smiley telescopic antenna you used in this video the gmrs tuned one or the dual band ham antenna?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@4x4le The Smiley Super Stick telescopic antenna is a 465 MHz GMRS tuned antenna. I tend to have better performance with it collapsed more than fully extended. If you get one, test it with a friend first, that way you will know how yours reacts before an “emergency” arises!

[@Cheusow]

Hello there. Let me know please...is it legal to use TD-H3 to transmit only on GMRS freq. with GMRS license?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@Cheusow Yes, here in the states we can use a Tidradio to transmit on 462-467 GMRS frequencies with a GMRS license. It's a very popular GMRS radio, and it can be unlocked to actually talk GMRS and 2m/70cm HAM. But that's a different license.

[@Cheusow]

thank you so much for the reply. I would buy TD-H3 instead of my GM-30 Plus.

[@Cheusow]

Awesome test. Thanks. Like + subscribe!

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@Cheusow Thank you! I have a lot of fun doing them.

[@JoshDaaang]

What antenna do u recommend for everyday carry? I love the Nagoya but wondering if u recommend something a bit smaller than it for everyday use?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@JoshDaaang The Smiley Slim Duck 465 is my favorite small antenna. It’s about 5” tall and performs awesome! There’s a link for it in my description if you decide. If you don’t like the Smiley, then check out the Signal Stick 440 size. It’s 6” and it does well also, but not as good as the Smiley!

[@JoshDaaang]

@@FirstUnitedTacticalur awesome thank you!!

[@edgoodwin9939]

I’m new at this. How does he get the repeater to repeat his testing message.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@edgoodwin9939 watch this video for the full explanation. kzbin.info/www/bejne/baLHfmZ4f5eKsJIsi=9OIxwcqtppENMyhq

[@edgoodwin9939]

Thank you. I get it now. I love it.

[@22272480]

I have the H-3 and I just got the Smiley 5/8 antenna, I noticed that there is a gap where the antenna screws into the radio. The antenna came with what looks like a rubber washer and a black coned shaped adapter of some kind. I noticed on your video that when you tested the H-3 you didn’t have that black cone thing on yours. My question is, how and when should I use the washer or the black cone thing, sorry not sure exactly what it’s called.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@22272480 I always have the "cone" on when I'm in the real world. During testing I'm swapping antennas so much I leave it off so I don't lose it. Always keep it on and it will prevent corrosion on the terminal. I don't need a washer on either Wouxun, or either Tid. Just the cone should be good.

[@tkflanagan4449]

Thank You my Friend, I need help. I am 70yrs and never owned a Gun . I joined the Service AF in 72 and became a Medic because Guns Scare me!! I would like a gun to protect my home,so no Rifles, to hard to maneuver in a tight space....What would you recommend for an old man that's EASY to understand!!! I TRUST your opinion because all of your Antenna vids were Right on...

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

There are a lot more questions that need to be answered, but let me ask this: donyou have arthritis in your hands? If so, I would say a revolver because many with arthritis can't "rack the slide" on a standard semi auto. If you are good with a semi, and it's for home defense, I like a .45 acp. I have numerous handguns and rifles, but the 45 is what's by my bed at night. 2 reasons: it's a slower velocity, which is less likely to go through "someone" and then through walls. 2: it leaves a big ass hole and no one is walking away. Most gun ranges will allow you to rent pistols at the range and shoot to get the right fit. That's the best option at 1st if there's a range near you that will allow rentals. Also, contact your local Police Dept or Sheriff's Dept and talk to them about gun safety. Most departments put on safety and awareness classes. As you can see, without more information this "reply" could turn into a novel. Don't let others tell you which model or caliber to buy. You need to figure that out yourself!

[@dunerinaz]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Agreed with everything you said. .45 ACP is the one I'd have if it were the only caliber. It's soft shooting, ammo is easy to find, and like you said, makes a big hole.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I am looking deeply into getting an AR-45 with a 5" barrel or so. It's much shorter than even an "AR pistol", but you can't put it into a holster. I like the idea of more accuracy with a 45, and this is the way. I don't have an account yet for CMMG, but they sell the "Banshee" which is an awesome AR45. But, I personally have 2 compact 45's and a full size 45. the full size is much easier to keep down when squeezing compared to the compacts. Those will break a weak wrist if not holding on and ready! You could also look into a Stinger. It's an extremely short 12 Ga shotgun.... No stock, just a pistol grip, pump and about a 10" barrel. The Charles Daly Honcho is a similar item. If you want to stay with a pistol, don't forget about the Taurus Judge! Load it with 410 shells or 45 Long Colt.

[@jdock32778]

Or, a shorter, pistol caliber carbine PCC 9mm. Stribog is reasonably priced. My opinion, more useful for home defense as it's shorter than an AR and 9mm ammo costs less. It provides more accuracy that a pistol. Easier to quickly move than a full sized rifle. It won't have the long distance as an AR, but it's for home, closer distances.

[@joeashbrook5736]

Would it be possible to get a recommended antenna for each radio? It’s hard to tell much difference listening on my phone.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@joeashbrook5736 Sure, I can give you a list later based on my experience. What kind of radio(s) do you have? Are you looking for a long range antenna like the 771's, or short ones? I am actually going to do a recap on those field test videos. I have almost 10 out there, and I get this question a lot. It would be easier if I could just put a link to the video here! Let me know what your questions are and what radios you have.

[@joeashbrook5736]

@@FirstUnitedTacticalcurrently have a H3 (interested in short) and a H8 (long).

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@joeashbrook5736 I am firm believer in the H3 and I can go ahead and tell you that the best short antenna for it is the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck 465 amzn.to/3LVcS7P and the best long antenna is the Nagoya 771g amzn.to/4cb6jc0 or the Diamond amzn.to/3A0ILcv The main difference in the Nagoya 771g and the Diamond is the Nagoya is a GMRS specifically tuned antenna and the Diamond is a dual band. This part is up to you: The Nagoya will talk better on GMRS, but you have more options on frequencies if you ever need to talk on HAM or 2m/70cm and GMRS. They are both excellent and the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck is fantastic. In one of my videos (may be this one, I don't remember) the Signal Stuff 440 performed excellent and better than the Smiley. I can tell you from experience that was not normal. The smiley always performed better and I have one on all of my daily radios. I keep a long one (771) in my truck in case I need to get out in the country and need to receive better. All three of these will transmit equally, but the longer ones will receive more because there is obviously more antenna sticking up in the air to grab the signal. I hope this helps, for now!

[@williamfenton6562]

U really feel on this side of the video the ABBREE was a very good contender

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

This video shocked everyone. The Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck 465 ALWAYS comes out on top as the short, and the Nagoya 771g always as the long. The Abbree 771c gmrs is pretty close to the Nagoya tho. If you watch my other field tests, there's no comparison.

[@joshjspice]

@firstunitedtactical the nagoya seemed pretty bad here, right? I will watch the other videos though. Thanks!

[@jdock32778]

I like the Signal Stick 440, but their website says 'out of stock' and shows the wrong dimensions for the short antenna. Guess I need to call them and get the right info.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Yep. I just went online also and checked. It's best to go ahead and order it, and just wait until the backorders come in. I had to do that with a few of my radios from Better Safe Radio. He stays so busy he can't keep anything in stock. 2 weeks will fly by.... I didn't check Ebay or Amazon, but I don't think you can get them there.

[@jdock32778]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Thanks for the quick reply. Amazon doesn't sell them.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@@jdock32778 I sent an email over to them and asked about the backorder delay. If they reply, I will let you know.

[@jdock32778]

@FirstUnitedTactical Ok thanks. 👍🏻

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Straight from them, yes replied on a Sunday! ..... We generally get more stock every Monday, then after backorders are shipped the inventory is updated.

[@baileymoto]

Surprised that the signal stick is keeping up with or beating antennas tuned specifically for gmrs/465mhz

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I agree. If you go back and watch the two videos that have the big blue "2" on the thumbnail, the 440 did horrible. This is one of those: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ep2qYZSgbap1lck That's what I was referring to when I said I didn't like it in the beginning. But, it all has to do with the atmosphere. Without a doubt, the Nagoya 771g has completely annihilated the others in my past videos. This video it didn't do well at all with any radio. I can tell you from months of daily experience, the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck is the best short antenna. However, it stops receiving around the 6 mile mark while in the country. It's a short antenna and doesn't have enough length to "grab" the signal being transmitted. The Nagoya 771g has never failed me, but it sticks me in the armpit all the time! To be honest, this is the first time I have ever seen the Signal 440 do a solid job, and it has never even come close to beating out a Nagoya 771g.... There is one main difference here compared to all of my older vids, and that is I used a Wouxun UV9Gx as my "base" radio. That radio is stroooooong, but doesn't explain why the others didn't receive better. It's the atmosphere.

[@Boaty-qm2cj]

It's hard to tell what ones worked better for the H3?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I tell everyone the best just before the field footage at 8:56. I use the H3 in all previous videos so you can see it in action with all types of conditions and different antennas. My all time favorite for this radio is the Smiley 5/8 Slim Duck 465 MHz. This video showed that one and the Smiley Super Stick 465 MHz were tied. The Nagoya 771g also works extremely well on this radio, but not so much with this test. It's the first time it hasn't come through as a winner. Go here for "true" Smiley products. Thanks! bettersaferadio.com/pro/first

[@AskIveSolar]

Probably wouldn't been nice to have post test reflections. I'll re listen to the beginning

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

What do you mean? The black and white beginning? I do quick clips on all my vids like that.

[@AskIveSolar]

I mean that your overview at the beginning about which radios work well with antennas would have been more ideal (for me) to be at the end. Not the b/w clip. All good either way. I just needed to go back to the beginning after watching the tests.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@AskIveSolar Normally I don't reveal my opinions like I did just before the field footage, but I thought that might actually keep folks watching and interested in sticking around. Lots of folks just skip around or stop the video entirely halfway through. It makes a huge difference for "creators" to maintain a steady audience throughout the video. I try to keep it entertaining.

[@Bruceonthelose]

did you leave your car door open Or am i hearing things

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Haha, yep. I never heard it while testing, but heard it while editing. I've never done that because of that stupid bell!

[@ossqss]

Was the H8 tested a 5 watt or a 10 watt unit? I recently received my radios and they are 10 watt, but I am seeing other recent reviews that say they are now building them as 5 watt? BTW, the bettersaferadio links are not functional.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

Bettersaferadio.com/pro/first

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

See if that link worked. So... all frequencies have a different wattages. My TYT-9800D says it's a 50w, but "if I was to unlock it and transmit on gmrs, it may or may not only transmit at 22w". (Not that I would don't hate that). The H8 is the same way. I have 4 H8s, all 10w, and not a single one hits 10. They push around 9w , 7w and then if unlocked, about 6w on gmrs. I don't understand the engineering behind the chips, but not all channels or frequencies will transmit at that advertised 10w. It's that way on all radios. And it has nothing to do with programming it from Low, Med, High either. The same goes for the UV5R's. My mobile radio is. Btech 50v2, which is advertised as a 50w unit. We'll on 15-30, it's in the 65w range. Don't believe all advertised wattages, and frankly 2w difference isn't going to make a difference. Now, my original H3 that arrived immediately after the release was bad. At max it pushed 3w on high. I got another pack and they pushed 5w. If you are at least 4.5w or more, you should be able to talk 5 miles easy and hit repeaters 20+ miles away (proper conditions and terrain levels).

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

I fixed the link. It didn't have the https in the beginning. Thanks for pointing that out to me! Without me getting into trouble here, all TIDradios "are" Ham and GMRS. My GMRS version "would" also push close to 10w on 2/70 "if" I was to attempt such illegal activities! The H8's that I am always referring to specifically stated GMRS on the advertisement, but they have more potential than just GMRS. Hopefully all these replies (sorry for all of them) have made some sort of sense for you. I promise I will keep them shorter if you comment or reply again!

[@ossqss]

@@FirstUnitedTactical Thank you, Sir. I should have referenced the advertised wattage the unit touted. That link now works. I have ordered the meter and look forward to cutting through the marketing to get to the performance facts. As a novice, now in the radio rabbit hole, finding the facts has been a challenge. Which way to go moving forward, is also a challenge, but having a radio that can unlock for the SHTF (hurricane in my area) times and use it legally is a good thing 🙂 Ham, FRS, GMRS, MURS, oh my! Test, no test, no nothing or rogue! Side note. I have the H3 and it seems to perform admirably when paired with a decent antenna. The Bluetooth app (H8 and H3) is interesting, but making you use GPS to use it is a WT! to me. The Uv-K6 is also an interesting radio when using the latest firmware upgrade. Fiddling with the spectrum analyzer that came in the firmware has been quite interesting. The UV-K6 radio can also operate with the USB-C plugged in and battery removed. Your research is appreciated. Keep on Keepin on.

[@ossqss]

@@FirstUnitedTactical My purpose of exploring various radios is part of a plan to legally prepare for Hurricane season this year for an entire neighborhood, since the FRS level devices were not very good in the past and GMRS makes sense in that at least those FRS radios could receive info from a select group of licensed operators. I think I understand the need to disappear my last reply but tell me if I am misinterpreting this for emergency use. I am just trying to filter fact from fiction. Edit- Never mind, I see the reply now. Doh! §97.403 "Safety of life and protection of property" "No provision of these rules prevents the use by an amateur station of any means of radiocommunication at its disposal to provide essential communication needs in connection with the immediate safety of human life and immediate protection of property when normal communication systems are not available." And this one Section 97.405 states that no provision of the Rules prevents the use by an amateur station in distress of any means at its disposal to attract attention, make known its condition and location, and obtain assistance. A sinking ship is a good example. It further states that no provision of the Rules prevents the use by a station, in that exceptional circumstance, of any means of radiocommunications at its disposal to assist a station in distress. Side note: I acquired a couple of these to test when I get that meter. Bingfu Dual Band VHF UHF 136-174MHz 400-470MHz, thoughts on those?

[@chrissewell1608]

Why do GMRS guys always want a 15 inch antenna, when you require a 4 inch antenna?

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

The perfect antenna for GMRS tranmission is 6". The longer antennas like 771's are just there to receive more. It's larger so it's like a bigger net catching more frequency. They transmit just as well as a aftermarket short antenna, you can just pick up more Rx with a longer antenna.

[@rockspydre]

The reason you had to go further is because Tidradios are crap. I’d bet good money you would have had to go further if you had gone to a UV-5R as your base. I’ve got an H8 and an H3. Both have great features… but RX is the worst of any of my radios. MY h8 I pretty much just… tolerate. I can mostly understand it… with the 771… and if something sounds like it might be interesting, I grab another radio to participate. But I’m almost to the point of just trashing it and eating the loss. The H3 is small enough that I can use it like an FRS at very short range. But otherwise… it’s pretty much useless. .

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

True, to a point. The h3 and h8 have more features, but if you have to have a solid radio for important communication, get a Wouxun or Yeasu. My UV5R's are total crap, in fact, all of my Baofeng units are trash. I'm getting a UV-9G sent to me to try out, but my hopes aren't high. I can full on tell you that TIDradio H3 and H8 are 10x better at TX and Rx than a UV5r, based on my testing that I can't show.... but that's just me, in my area, on that particular cloudy day, with x amount of humidity, etc.... yours may be awesome, but my 6 are not. Neither is the 5G Plus or 5RM. And, I wasn't happy with the btech GMRS pro either, which is still part of the Baofeng clan. I never leave home without my Wouxun KG-UV9GX because it's about as solid as they come without going to a commercial Kenwood or Icom.

[@rockspydre]

@@FirstUnitedTactical I would contend the differences we are seeing in our TIDradios are the same we are seeing in our Baofeng products. I have set my 5G+ directly next to my TID h8 and listened to the same transmissions. The 5G+ is consistently clearer. I would attribute our differences of opinion on the two brands to the same thing: inconsistent quality control by the manufacturers. I happened to get ... 7 Baofeng products that work beautifully, and are very clear on transmission and reception. You got 6 that are not good. You got... well, it appears one H3 and one H8 that work beautifully, TX and RX, whereas I got one of each that do not. Perhaps inconsistent QC in both cases. I will not say that yours are bad (even though I essentially did originally, and for that I apolgize). But I will definitely say that mine are bad. Or at least worse than any of my Baofengs. But Wouxuns, i agree, are as good as they come without spending hundreds more.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@rockspydre I completely agree with you. Are you aware that there were recalls on the H8 and the H3's when they were released? Major issues in those first batches. I have newer ones and maybe that's the positive point. Let's see, I have 2 Greaval UV5R 5w, which the "power" is backwards. If it says Low, it's actually high power and when you swap the radio to high power it transmits on low power! Then I have 2 normal baofeng uv5r 5w, which don't transmit great at all. Now, I can still hit Mt repeater 29 miles away with a Nagoya 771g, but they say it's staticky. I also have 2 baofeng uv5r 8w and those are also staticky at 29 miles to the repeater. My baofeng uv 5g won't talk across the yard! (Exagerating).... I've only used the 5g Plus a few times for video, which isn't bad, but there's better radios to spend your money on. So, I guess I misspoke when I said they are trash, it's just I haven't had a great experience with them. The h3 and h8 talk excellent and people say I sound great on that repeater (29 miles). But, the Radioddity GM-30 blew me away! I like it, but there is zero way to unlock it.

[@rockspydre]

@@FirstUnitedTactical It is entirely possible my H8 and H3 are "New Old Stock." I just bought the H3 about a month ago. The H8 only about a month before that. But I think I bought both directly from TIDRadio... I'd have to go back and look. Either way, they could be NOS.

[@FirstUnitedTactical]

@rockspydre Do you have a power meter? The H8 and the H3 should be around the 5w range on GMRS 15-22. If they are not, they are bad. 1 of my H3's (original batch) only pushes 3w on high. That's the bad guinea pig. I keep it just for video purposes. I eve did a video that's called "Test your GMRS Equipment" and that H3 was the star of the show. I've had lots of TIDRADIOS, and when they are the "current" version, they work really good for a low cost radio. But yes, there are good batches and bad batches.