Three Types Of Radios You Need Right Now. Radio Readiness 101. How To keep Informed These Days.

[@outbackeddie]

Back in the early 70s (1970 or 1971 I think), I took a solo cross country trip from California to Oklahoma. I had a CB radio at the time and I had a great time talking with my fellow travelers along the way. I got information on where to eat, where to get gas, where the cops were hiding out lookin for speeders, etc. I had a great time and I will always remember that trip.

[@GOBRAGH2]

I went to a town in 2014 where there was no cell coverage and every business had a CB radio in addition to a landline phone. The local diner had advertisements on the placemats and listed what CB channels they used. I couldn't believe it. It inspired me to get a CB radio.

[@mustangdemon87]

Must have been near the sky "ears" dead zone.

[@Jcrpdx]

Where's that town?

[@mustangdemon87]

@@Jcrpdx the NRQZ is zone 3 and zone 4 of a electronic limited zone located in west Virginia. Zones 3 and 4 cover 13000 square miles. Within 10 square miles no electronic transmitting devices are aloud including gasoline engines.

[@Jcrpdx]

@@mustangdemon87 Facinating. Thank you.

[@stayinganonymous.3172]

​@@mustangdemon87 Green Bank Telescope?

[@kjelene]

Are you ok from the hurricane? Good thing you have the radios!!!!

[@FarpointFarms]

We did OK, many in our community lost everything. The radio was the only thing working

[@spankyharland9845]

for the basic non-radio person- a solar powered/dynamo crank survival radio that has AM,FM & NOAA weather frequencies. FRS radio for every family member. I would also recommend a good source of battery power pack. most folks have no clue on how to listen to or operate a short wave- and it would not help them if they had a local SHTF moment. Also invest in an AR15 just in case someone wants to take your radios away.

[@davebrown3117]

I have a shortwave radio that also picks up longwave beacons from airports around me. Why are they useful? They have weather reports for aircraft landing and take-off and include weather warnings where necessary. Even if they don't have much air traffic at night, if any, they can be emergency landing field for aircraft in distress. Other radios also include VHF/UHF radio bands for aircraft beacons as well. The weather warnings may include cyclone/hurricane and tornado warnings as well as rain/hail warnings. Shop around.

[@blackpepperprepper2025]

Great video! I am an Amateur radio operator, NY2CW. I agree with your selection of radio types and give my friends the same advice. Thanks for this video!

[@rEdf196]

Here on the west coast of Canada VHF Marine is also a good option since it pretty much replaced AM CB over here for coastal communications.

[@joshwelner1951]

same east coast Maine works ok not great up in the woods too

[@joannc147]

Sadly VHF marine is illegal to use on land (in US).

[@sonlitlayman7760]

In 1978 I owned forty acres about fourteen miles from Snowflake, AZ. There was no electricity, no water service, and no telephone. I had a generator for my electricity, a well with a windmill for my water, and a CB radio for my telephone. I had a base station at the house and a CB installed in my truck. It all worked fine and we got along really well without any of the other services.

[@FarpointFarms]

That sounds like a fantastic life- simple

[@rodclark4485]

Are you still there? Living off the grid??

[@josephvoytus3694]

That really does sound perfect.

[@PupitoManuel]

Great info. Short and to the point. All three are the best option for everyone to have, even of it’s in a closet collecting dust. At the end of the day they WILL be worth every penny when the SHTF.

[@reducecotwo]

A Fire and Police scanner is always a good idea and a hand crank am/fm radio just in case you run out of batteries.

[@josephvoytus3694]

​@@reducecotwo most fire & police are now digital. Digital scanners are definitely not cheap. Nice to have, but probably lower on the list due to price.

[@toml.8210]

I like to scan shortwave at night. In January 2021, I picked up a (secret military channel) and I heard some very interesting things... That frequency is quiet now.

[@gone2dmtns]

While FRS radios are inexpensive and readily available from the hardware or sports store, a GMRS radio can be attached to a mobile or base station antenna and with the higher wattage (Handhelds up to 5 watts; Mobile up to 50 watts) be able to communicate over much longer distances or through a repeater. This is important in that SHTF scenario. Preparedness is golden. And yes, a FCC license is required to operate a GMRS radio but your immediate family can operate under your license.

[@RockyMTHirvi]

In the last 2 years I've also studied for taken amateur radio (shortwave) Technician FCC license for VHF/UHF to connect to communicate on repeater in regional area. The General license allows communication to othe the shortwave radio operators around the world. It's been a great experience and learn how weather, Sun events, geomagnetic changes effect communication. I recommend to anyone interested to look in amateur radio license (10 yrs between renewal)

[@FarpointFarms]

It is really cool isn't it?

[@matthewkaler823]

Short wave has great Christmas music during the holidays. Am talk news gives great local news. I bought two world band radios for 100 bucks at a second hand shop.

[@alancaron984]

What frequencies?

[@ericdee6802]

Excellent tutorial Erik. If I may add, having a couple extra FM' radios laying around would also be handy to have to pass out the neighbors during the event of an emergency would be smart, having a few or a group of neighbors assigned to specific tasks in the event of a disaster, is key. I have a trauma kit (first aid) which I put together, it contains everything, including some items for field surgery, I e. Sutures, scalpels etc... Although iam by means no Surgeon, but my Neighbor is a licensed DR. and these items in the right hands can save someone's life. Although to some the idea mentioned above may sound far fetched to some, but when an emergency arrives, it usually arrives uninvited and unexpected.🇺🇸✌️

[@totallyfrozen]

I guess I don’t understand. It sounds expensive. You buy radios to pass out to people who didn’t buy themselves a radio, and you have a medical kit that exceeds your knowledge and training so that you can pass it to a “DR” (medical doctor?) in an emergency? You’re assuming a medical doctor with emergency medical skills wouldn’t already have a medical kit? Are you going to provide food, water, electricity, and security to your neighbors too? It sounds extremely expensive and if you’re dealing with people who didn’t prepare even basic stuff like buying a battery powered radio, then you’re dealing with the type of people who will consume ALL your resources to the best of their abilities. If I lived next to a couple of kids who just graduated high school, sure, I’d assume they are naive and didn’t know to be prepared. Adults with families could have prepared.

[@jayzsphotography6]

Thanks, I just bought a few CB's and installed them. The last time I had on in my vehicle was the year 2000. Glad to have one back in truck.

[@jamesalles139]

I would add a fourth type, since a NOAA weather radio with the *Specific Area Message Encoding* (SAME) has alerts coded for your specific area. It may be appreciated more in 'tornado alley', but a tornado can pop up anywhere, and a severe thunderstorm is worthy of urgent preparation at times. thanks for the video!

[@FarpointFarms]

When we live near a nuclear reactor- we were given a NOAA radio to alert us in case of an emergency- The downfall is that it alerted us to every emergency (storms 40+ miles away) We turned it off more than we had it on.

[@jamesalles139]

@@FarpointFarms Yes. "All Hazards Radio"

[@dtvjho]

1:42 I instantly recognized that one! I bought one of those from Radio Shack new. The telescoping antenna screws into a port right on the top, it's missing on the one you showed. The switch in frequencies you mention is usually around dusk. If I remember right, during the daytime the higher channels (above 13,000 kHz) work well, and they propagate over the horizon until dusk. That's when the lower channels open up, and stations switch to take advantage. Schedules and channel guides do exist, as you mention. BTW, shortwave signals are AM but are sent on channels much higher than the top channel on a regular AM radio, 1700. To give an example, a normal AM station in Philly would be 1060 KYW. That channel is 1060 kHz = 1.060MHz. Channels on shortwave go much higher; shortwave stations can be at 4500 or 8000 (8000kHz = 8MHz). That Radio Shack unit tops out at 29,990!

[@tyronewalker5764]

Don't leave out a dedicated NOAA Weather radio!

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

Good advice!

[@exgenica]

With at least an alarm capability and if desired an auto-activate audio option when the alarm goes off. But keep your eyes open. Some of the units with an standby/alarm function drain a LOT of battery power even when in standby and the alarm isn't sounding...which isn't good for battery life...so find one that uses very little power when it is in standby. When on battery-only power, it should be able to run for days in standby before needing battery recharge or replacement. It's also nice to have one with standby that runs on AC adapter or battery and automatically switches to battery during a power failure. Personally, I prefer radios that can use a user-replaceable high-capacity rechargeable lithium cell.

[@DocMicrowave]

I remember some old multiband shortwave radios that also included the weather band.

[@Leo_Davis_]

Sadly, the NOAA is shutting down the transmitter in my area. It covers 2 large cities. Sign of the times I guess

[@DocMicrowave]

@@Leo_Davis_ I wonder if they will keep the hardware in place to be brought back up in the event that a disaster takes down land lines and cell towers.

[@chadwinford2560]

Thanks Eric for your time !

[@FarpointFarms]

No worries!

[@chadwinford2560]

I recently bought the president handheld cb because of your video on it, I’m slowly getting back into the hobby, the radio is awesome and I appreciate your knowledge on the topic, thanks again

[@Adrian-sb7vi]

te estoy viendo en mi clase de inglés, eres un grande, sigue así

[@FarpointFarms]

Thanks!

[@KeepItMowed]

I miss the old CB Radio days in Houston. Growing up I had a nice base set up and had one in the car. I would talk skip at night from the base station. As time went on and a lot of the old guys died off, there wasn't much activity.😟 I no longer have a cb. But after Hurricane Harvey and the big Texas freeze I've been considering it again. Thinking of building something with a punch behind it 😉. Great video and great ideas.

[@CHart-zi9lk]

Good Job. Been watching a lot of these type videos, and I will say that you come across as a reliable and trustworthy guy, like someone's cousin everyone like. Keep up the good work.

[@titodalessandro1909]

We should talk about Antennas. Home Station antennas. How to install them and good name brand you would recommend.

[@ericdee6802]

Erik has a three part antenna series he posted, he covers the basics regarding base station antennas. Surf around his channel under videos, youll fibd it.

[@williammcintyre1054]

I am glad I kept scrolling . You hooked me . Straight to point and it's what I needed to find. Honesty. Thank you sir.

[@FarpointFarms]

I am glad I could help!

[@ratherbewargaming3753]

Great video. I was literally just talking to a buddy about what radios he should have at his place, for emergencies.

[@FarpointFarms]

These are the ones to get! Shortwave is #1 for getting info, and CB is #1 for trading it. FRS is #1 for keeping in touch at close range.

[@Tsch6373]

I'm 2/3rds of the way ready where communications is concerned. I have an HT, a shortwave radio with ssb, need to get another CB. I used CBs in the 70s and 80s both at home and otr as a charter bus driver. Retired now. Own a condo in an HOA which limits the ability to have outdoor antenna but using a wire extended near a window greatly enhances reception on shortwave. CB is line-of-site and the ham radio may depend on a local repeater. Thank you for this video, had forgotten about the CB.

[@michaeldvorak8140]

Some of the best suggestions I’ve heard. No high expense but a good combination of radios to have when the need arises. And a bit of fun using them.

[@totallyfrozen]

Very good video! Good selections. I agree that a dedicated NOAA radio isn’t really necessary because there is a plethora of AM/FM radios that include a NOAA band. Not all, but most, weather events are not so sudden that you need alerts (tornadoes being one exception). Things like storms and hurricanes approach slowly and can be seen, usually, DAYS ahead of time. So any radio with a NOAA band will work for that. When I lived in Alaska, back in the 90’s, CB was very popular and my friends and I used it daily. Cellphones have put CB out of sight/out of mind. When the cell services go down, having CB can be a real life saver. Be wise when you use it because it can also make you a target too. You’ll often be opening communications with total strangers who may be desperate for supplies and equipment. FRS is good too. In the 90’s I bought a pair of Uniden GMRS radios and used them for about 25 years before I learned that you’re supposed to have a license to use those bands. I assumed it was FRS. They aren’t the same. FRS is like CB and you don’t need a license. GMRS requires a cheap license (it lasts 10 years, I believe).

[@KageShi]

I will always have a CB in my inventory. I have a dozen of them on the shelf in the garage. They range from regular factory ones to +100w barefoot ones for emergency broadcast use.

[@buffyvanburen8688]

Great advice that's understandable for laypersons--and I thank you so much! Good backups for information and/or communication if anything goes awry, grid down, etc. You rock!

[@softmetals3702]

Off sub here but what a cool name Buffy van buren,

[@lawrencecaines214]

I am an old radioman from the 50's, 60's, The radios you talk about are fine, BUT You're not counting on Several things that can be an issue or issues in a react alert disaster strikes in situations that may accrue, and you will need a lot more than three radios to establish radio communications, there are forces out there that can jam and intervene with every communication devices on earth, are you prepared for that, and no I am not crazy, I discover this few years ago if you think you're ready, think again.

[@FarpointFarms]

I'm sure they have ways to kill these comms as easy as they will pull the plug on every other non-official comm source, but at least with these we will last longer than with a cell phone and cable tv.

[@Robotechnology101]

Depends on the area of the US you are in regarding CB versus Ham for emergencies. Where I am in Southern California we have a large network of ham repeaters and alert radio amateurs who are involved with volunteer programs tied with our county's(San Diego) Sheriff's department. But in areas like you if there are more people who have CB than Ham then it would make sense to own a CB for that reason as well. Either way having a reliable means of communications in case of emergencies is very important.

[@hbirtt]

I was thinking the same thing. Seems a little over-simplified to say "lots of CBs sold. CB is best." The best radios are the ones with helpful people on the other end.

[@donnaphen503]

This is true , as me being a licensed ham for almost 50 years can attest to, but the drawback is the License. CB radio shines when it comes to being able to communicate locally to neighbors and family that live close by without requiring a license. Either way, both are great and I thank you for your input. Don, wb1o Greater Boston area

[@L337g4m3r]

The nice thing about CB is you can find decent ones dirt cheap on ebay and you don't need a license. Just grab one and go. Ham is a bit more work due to needing to mess with getting a license and higher cost of equipment. Then again ham has other benefits so I suppose it depends on how involved one wants to get into it.

[@realflyersrc4416]

There is both in that are. Lots of CB's. But information from a ham

[@mikebelisle4896]

Cb has always been a must. I fix them as well. It will be a usefull tool for a long time.

[@Tina-ds3pp]

I'm old school and CB can go a long way if the conditions are right! My station routinely reaches stations across the country and when I'm lucky in other countries as well! Definitely the go to for emergencies!

[@ericsmith1801]

SSB CB could be used for cross country communication with a little help.

[@ericsmith1801]

SSB = Single Side Band. You sound like Donald Duck, but it has great range.

[@Tina-ds3pp]

@@ericsmith1801 that's true and funny

[@Helelsonofdawn]

how do i do what you do

[@jordanmatte1144]

I bought a Yaesu FT3D handy talkie.. it is an awesome unit, does more things than I even know how to use yet, overall great grab and go unit, not cheap, but could save your life.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I just stumbled on your channel. Great work spreading the word on essential comms. I highly recommend getting into amateur radio for those who don't mind a little studying to get licensed. The emergency communications capabilities you get are worth the investment in time and money.

[@Multiplemom3452]

Unfortunately I live in a building that does not allow antennas so using my CB radio is out ugh. I do have a short wave radio. So that’s good.

[@tjlovesrachel]

@@Multiplemom3452 where there’s a will there’s a way….

[@stahpit1971]

@@Multiplemom3452 LOts of us have antenna restrictions but we find ways it's fun to find ways to get around the overlords. Lots of videos on stealth antennas if your interested.

[@johncrouch8988]

If there’s a national emergency 🚨 no one is going to worry about if you have a license or not🤷‍♂️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@johncrouch8988 That's true, but operating amateur radios effectively requires practice and investment in real gear (not an inexpensive Baofeng HT). You can't practice/train during non emergency windows. It's a bit like buying a firearm, keeping in the box, never training with it, and thinking you'll be an effective high speed operator the one time you need it.

[@Baumeister40]

FRS are good for: road trip caravans, carnivals, festivals, theme parks, scavenger hunts, boat-to-boat, bike riding in groups, fishing with friends, working a warehouse or big box store. Maybe in a mall. Etc

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed.

[@mikeking7470]

Living on the edge of "tornado alley" weather radio is higher priority, but good weather radios are cheap. Can usually get them with a TV station promo for under $30.00.

[@madmax2069]

Heck, you can just pick up a Baofeng UV-5R for $25 which allows you to tune in on weather stations.

[@HNXMedia]

I love listening to weird little short wave transmissions, specifically out of South East Asia, at night time.

[@rickdaystar477]

There's a whole world of clandestine stations out there. Numbers stations are spooky...lol

[@geoffroberts1126]

I think KCNA (North Korean News Agency) still transmit news (read 'propaganda') on HF using Radio Teletype. A computer with sound card and a HF receiver and you can decode it. There's also a LOT of 'digital' modes, with everything from FAX to Slow Scan TV to various other modes that let you send and receive written text rather than use voice. Just the software (free) and a computer is all you need. AX25 packet radio is still used a lot, but there's also HellSchrieber, Piccolo, RTTY in various forms and speeds and a host of others. What's potentially useful is that some modes sound like atmospheric noise or just random noise of some kind, so it's got a certain level of stealth, if you don't know it's there, you often won't realise it's actually sending information. Hams use many of these modes on a routine basis, mostly on HF but they will work on 2m FM or even US style CB (27mhz) though its technically illegal. Obviously after the SHTF that's no longer an issue. So, you could, say, set it on a particular channel you and your contacts use, connected to the computer and leave it unattended while you're out doing whatever you need to do, then you can come back and read anything that came through and respond as needed at your leisure. AX25 packet 'mailboxes' will work well too, but there are many other modes to choose from. Google 'digital modes' and see what pops up.

[@dwighthitchens9838]

Great advice. Those are the three radios I have here on my coastal Virginia homestead. Thanks

[@madmax2069]

So far I have a Baofeng UV-5R with a Nagoya NA-771, and a bit of coax for a make shift external Antenna (using the NA-771), an Eton Elite Executive, and a Uniden 980SSB and a Antron 99, and a magnet mount antenna, I also want to get an HF Ham Radio. I like listening to ham bands so SSB was a requirement for my SW receiver. I've been listening to a bunch of CW, while the EEE doesn't have a CW mode, you can just use LSB or USB to be able to tune into a frequency that has people talking in CW and use the fine tuning to bring it in properly. you can also listen to the CB band. Going to also be buying a foldable solar panel, and a solar panel kit.

[@daviator4720]

Thanks for the video. Have all as listed. My Bearcat 980 does have weather as well. The SSB is quite entertaining in that I can sometimes pick up NC and SC randomly and other distant places. Weather and day or night quite listening varies greatly.

[@FarpointFarms]

The 980 is a great little radio!

[@deanfromromania]

This video has excellent information. I've been a shortwave junkie for almost 40 years, and it has never ceased to thrill me to find an international station I've not heard before. More so is hearing something from my home country of Canada being aired from another nation.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad to hear you liked it!

[@madmax2069]

Hearing a numbers station is pretty awesome and freaky.

[@JoeG75]

Great advice, I've been wondering if a CB radio was still useful, I had one in my pick up in the 90s. Thank you, love your channel.

[@marcdemell5976]

I am sure that a CB is useful now like it was back then ,think about it . I am looking into getting a C.B. myself.

[@hermanfurlong8824]

I just got my old single side band cb radio out of the garage! Purchased a new cb antenna and going to put it up , if things go south in Ukraine it could go very bad quickly! I have thought about ham several times but never had time! If things go south I believe people will dig their old radios out and cb will be used around the country with the help of hams , cb and gmrs radio users!

[@Orefamilylawncare]

That little pro 510xl is a wonderful little radio

[@WolfangStudios73]

Cheapest and best CB on the market lol. I have 2 :D

[@stelthtrekker9445]

I see the dual band ham radio mounted. I knew you wouldn't let your ticket expire. I love CB as well, but in my area it's mostly quiet. I'm still going to get a CB, but I'd never let my ham license go.

[@zerohour5747]

In a SHTF scenario, a license is worthless but the radio is priceless

[@nealbeach4947]

@@zerohour5747 As you keep saying. Are you not intelligent enough to get a license now and build a network of han to communicate with and learn from?

[@chrislj2890]

I would also suggest an emergency radio, but not one of those little red el-cheapo pieces of junk that don't work when you need them. I recently bought a C.Crane CC Solar Observer that is pretty awesome. It's AM/FM/WX that can take three AA batteries or you can use the built in NiMH that can be charged with the attached solar panel or the hand crank dynamo. I also have the optional DC adapter. This thing has great reception, and using one of the wire spool antennas with it makes it even better. It's not cheap as I paid $70 from Amazon with the DC adapter, but I'm very glad to have it.

[@FarpointFarms]

Those are decent radios with decent charging options.

[@alafenetre81]

Great video! With current events in the world, I think it's more useful than ever to be able to get information without the Internet and the traditional media. I find it a pity that so many SW stations have closed, though.

[@totallyfrozen]

I agree. When I look at the ongoing back n’ forth battles regarding censorship and/or the accusations of censorship, I think a campaign to revive SW radio listening is needed.

[@nickvial7008]

Installed my grandpas CB radio in my truck the other day. Manufacture date of ‘99, still rollin strong.

[@beretta804]

I do like the idea of the sw receiver option. I currently installed a CB antenna with a Bearcat 980. Also have a base GMRS set up and soon to have a base ham antenna. Looking to cover the "big 3". Living in RI, I might also get a cheap marine radio and possible a MURS to have as backup... just to have it all.

[@jamesvw769]

A CB antenna is a poor choice for SW unless you are listening from 25 to 30 MHz..

[@marcruel9401]

I’ve been thinking of getting an AM/FM since before Rush left us. A small, digital I could move around the house. Two weeks ago I pulled the trigger and imagine my surprise when you held up my radio. Don’t know about the short wave but I’m happy with it. What a coincidence.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great! You will love shortwave if you were a fan of Rush.

[@FrankLadd]

Great video. Around me a marine VHF is more popular than a CB. But you are really only allowed to monitor the VHF from your house not transmit unless you have a special license. These other radios make a lot of sense. I'll look into getting a four pack of FRS for my next hurricane crew. I like the usb charging idea. Also I need to look into the FM/AM/Short wave option and learn more about that. The only thing I disagree about is the weather radio; I listen to it often.

[@tinachavez8712]

Read you loud and clear.

[@primitivex5221]

Eric this was a great video. Thank you for doing this one. I think these items are a must have and alot of fun . I also agree cb is the smart choice. I have multiples of each .All of my stuff runs off of rechargeable aa/aaa and portable solar kits .

[@FarpointFarms]

Right on!

[@davidburke3378]

2m is a great option also. Widely used and every county practices emergency nets that activate when needed. Repeaters give them a huge range.

[@FarpointFarms]

Yes, most certainly, but this video focused on radios that required no license to operate and the easy of operation while using them.

[@stomper2582]

Informative video. Thanks for sharing. 🇺🇸

[@stanleyromanowski9816]

Had a CB back when you still had to register radios. Talked "skip" on the CB with a fellow in Denver from my home near Pittsburgh, PA. Just so happened the Steelers were playing the Broncos that Sunday.

[@FarpointFarms]

Small world! Isn't that a neat thing to do?

[@area51audio]

Something to consider: Any of the electronics that have usb rechargeable batteries have a limited lifespan and usually are not user-replaceable. You'll likely be able to find AA's in a situation, but good luck finding the proper little liPo pack to go in your dead 5 year old walkie.

[@heretikpapy]

Charge them once every 6 month and your good for long time. And yes they are replaceable. All talkie-walkies have replaceble batteries... So it's up to us to order more and leave them in the package unopened for future usage. ;) For the Multibands receiver radio, yes, you have to put one, brand new, in your Faraday Closet, in case of emergency. Not so much have replacable AA batteries, sadly. But the one like the Crane C. Skywave SSB or the Tescun PL880 that most radio amateur people recommande, they have 18050 or AA batteries, replaceable, and are the best models on the market probably.

[@kfsrmn]

I have a solar powered 9800mw pack that can charge cell phones and small radios.

[@heretikpapy]

@@kfsrmn I have 4 x 100w solar panels + Bluetti 1500wh solar generator. Just in case.

[@strayblackcatsmeow]

Mine is battery operated but it can take rechargeables and has a charging station. Best of both worlds.

[@madmax2069]

It's easy to remove the batteries from said radio and directly wire a power bank, or wire up to a USB port of a solar panel and run them that way.

[@fm71450]

Thank you for this presentation. In the mid 70s, I worked in the Lydian desert on oil rigs. We had NO comms, except radio. At that time BBC and VOA were really great on shortwave. I humped a small Sony SW radio with me - very glad I did. For a separate viewpoint on the world situation, nothing better than SW - but - that does not insulate the listener from “propaganda” - the listener still needs to try to separate “the wheat from the chaff”. Again, thank you from S.E. Tennessee.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great point- sometimes the propaganda is too good not to listen to. People just need to listen to all sides and make up their mind.

[@bauertime]

The scan feature is very, very important to me.

[@DonnieDarko727]

Very very very

[@bauertime]

@@DonnieDarko727 So your think it's more important to you, than it is to me. OH YEAH! Well bring it on bro!

[@glenmo1]

My recommendation for a newbie or a experienced radio operator for CB . I would recommend the cobra 79 ltd .. it's got one of the best receivers.. it's got noise blanker to cut off the static.. and a built-in SWR meter as it is important to get your antennas SWR correct to prevent transmitter damage and to get your signal out there

[@heathwhittle4514]

Very informative! Nice video! So fun to hang out with you and Jenn last weekend!

[@FarpointFarms]

You too!!

[@adventureunderground2234]

CB & FRS are popular in the off-road world. Handheld FRS is popular in the hiking world and also the rappelling world. Off-roading with a mounted radio and a spotter out side with a radio is a lot easier than yelling out your window. Traveling with your buddies, a radio is faster and easier than calling.

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed.

[@tylerdean980]

If you’ve got the dough for one a “shack in the box” ham radio covers all possible bases, but they’re expensive. If you just want to receive on the cheap, nothing beats an SDR.

[@countryside8122]

Well SDR needs to come with instructions, NOT an easy radio to figure out!

[@jimnorrish5507]

Not every one is allowed to use them…..

[@tylerdean980]

@@jimnorrish5507 Yes, but anyone can monitor. And in times of emergency anyone can, I encourage all to get the license and practice, but having it is a lot better than not.

[@howitstartsmm]

old radio and CB equipment (pre 911) are mostly where you can find analog systems instead of digital. Emergency services kept analog systems and civilians got digital, remember all the "free" tv converters. I have found an interesting variety of signals us the analog systems. Even though digital has more variety, analog signals are more durable. Anyway thought I'd share, communication and information is key. Also I use an old Hooker Bi-linear around 500 range, really boosts any signal in, emergencies.

[@FarpointFarms]

Good stuff! Thanks for the info.

[@davidp73]

Good advice….I personally like 2 meter ham radio. Of course you have to be licensed but with the right set up on simplex frequencies you can reach further contacts because of the wattage

[@SlipFitGarage]

I agree with 2 meter..... but during emergencies having a ham license is irrelevant. "Use all means necessary"

[@sandybottom6623]

A scanner is very useful to keep up on what's happening locally.

[@FarpointFarms]

I agree! I would put that 4 or 5 on the list

[@KB4QAA]

Great radio suggestions for the average user! Simple, cheap, easy to use!!!

[@ThePaPappy]

@Farpoint Farms Got my vintage Electra Bearcat DX1000 with a Tri-band antenna ! Radios like the Gracedigital has an internet radio that pulls stations from around the world using internet . I have the Mondo Elite.

[@PC4USE1]

I think having a shortwave set up is good for a SHTF situation. In that scenario,licensing will not be problematic. ONLY in that scenario. I would confine myself to listening in any normal scenario.

[@nozmoking1]

My primary radio is a cheap RTL-SDR with upconverter, a laptop with solar power backup and location-optimized antennas. It will cover nearly everything from zippers to teacups including unencrypted law enforcement and even WIFI packets. It can all be stuffed into a briefcase. Scanning, ADSB, satellite imaging and a host of other free software add-ons will enhance the kinds of receiving you can do. Don't leave home without it.

[@paulvelte]

You should have mentioned antennae requirements for each option.

[@crankyemoji2328]

Great video two up 👍👍. The only thing I would add is most CBers don’t know that 80% of the ability to reach out and talk to somebody is the antenna. And they should have an SWR meter to tune the antenna to the new location on the car or a new vehicle.

[@FarpointFarms]

great point on the antenna

[@casperhoss2952]

Very informative, well done! Thanks for your time and knowledge, what a great channel.

[@FarpointFarms]

Much appreciated!

[@kenfulkerson9567]

Grundig, AM/FM/SW1-2, 3 AAA batteries, CB radio with NOAA, which is a backup emergent station. Get a Map so as to track ongoing issues and for best route to bug out.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great idea!

[@JoeR203]

I haven't heard ANY ham. But my bologna won't shut the hell up. 😁 I see that Polaroid behind you. I still have a 32" Polaroid TV I used to use as a PC monitor and TV because it has picture-in-picture. But not just a small box in a corner of the screen. You can also split the P-n-P 50/50 on screen.

[@jamescopeland5358]

I've been thinking along these lines for a few years now. Definitely something we all need to consider as we develop our "Friends" list. I'm lucky that my people live within a 10 mile radius.

[@marcdemell5976]

When the tribulation starts, then the true colours come out . Watch out for the one with the yella streak.

[@janiceshrope4062]

Thank you Eric. Communication is my focus this year. Learning much from you.

[@FarpointFarms]

Very welcome

[@mattwilcox3645]

@@FarpointFarms Is there a CB music channel? If so what is it? I am interested in listening only, what should I get?

[@andrewluchsinger]

Back in the 80's and into the 90's I had a very cool Heathkit short wave radio. I was dropped by accident and now is gone. I love listening to many of the programs I could hear from Europe and from Canada and even pirate stations.

[@FarpointFarms]

They have come down in price and there are still a lot of cool programs hidden away amongst the static.

[@andrewluchsinger]

@@FarpointFarms I am already in radio professionally, but I would love to get another shortwave again.

[@1969flyboy]

how about a video on top 10 channels and best times for those channels? maybe set a time and channel and see if you can contact some of the followers on this channel. Or even a jump contact to reach you sounds fun to me.

[@FarpointFarms]

Sounds like a great idea!

[@michaelm1053]

I’ve been listening to the intro music over and over again

[@FarpointFarms]

Check out the full song! Just Search for "The official Farpoint Farms Theme song".

[@michaelm1053]

@@FarpointFarms that’s awesome! Thanks, I’m glad I commented and found the rest of your theme song. It’s great!

[@jacktaylor3001]

Great minds! I would suggest, if at all possible, one gets a shortwave reciever with all 30 bands. I enjoy sandbagging on the ham bands and in an emergency those communications could be invaluable.

[@jbird4461]

I have a eton elite 750 with some scrap speaker wire for a antenna. I listen to Hams all over the western US along with many over seas SW broadcasts. Listening to the Hams yak encouraged me to get my Technician license, working on my General now

[@adredling6767]

I’m a longtime radio buff. I have multiples of all the radios he mentioned + Amateur (Ham) radios and a General license to use them. Cell service is great until it’s taken down and 99% of people will NOT be prepared if that happens. Good video, appreciate your viewpoint very much!

[@thomasmaughan4798]

I have a shortwave receiver with only ONE band; but it is a very wide band! 100 KHz to 30 MHz.

[@jacktaylor3001]

@@thomasmaughan4798 👍

[@danielb3462]

You live in Beautiful ridin country brother. I have had tears streaming down my face

[@FarpointFarms]

I am living the dream here my friend!

[@haroldyeager6124]

I have a couple of old CBS out in the garage I have been contemplating putting back into use. One an old Cobra 29. With the side mic jack and a President Jackson. It of course has the extra bands, sideband, and I had a modulation kit put in it years ago. So it dead keys at about 8 watts, and swings up to 45 watts when talking. I need to have it checked out, because it gets hot just by turning it on and not using it.. I can’t find anyone local anymore to is qualified to work on it. There is a CB shop about an hour away, that I would trust to work on the Cobra, but not my President Jackson

[@thomasmaughan4798]

"and I had a modulation kit put in it years ago. So it dead keys at about 8 watts, and swings up to 45 watts when talking. " LOL. Really? How is that power measured?

[@haroldyeager6124]

@@thomasmaughan4798 the technician showed me the difference on his equipment. I had no reason to doubt him because I had been on different channels before in a truck stop and guys on the highway were cussing me to turn off my kicker. I’ve never used a linear. Always ran barefoot.

[@thomasmaughan4798]

@@haroldyeager6124 "I’ve never used a linear. Always ran barefoot." An audio compressor increases the *average* transmitted power of SSB radios; has no effect whatever on the power of AM radios but will sound somewhat louder (approaching distortion). Because actual linear amplifiers are illegal on the citizens band, people that want them are susceptible to fraud. One fellow proudly showed me his kilowatt linear amplifier, it had a single vacuum tube with a rated plate dissipation of about 40 watts; half of that is the best you can get into the antenna. Well, 20 watts is certainly more than 5, but not by a lot. That's 6 db, and 6 db is one "s" unit. .

[@deepwoods_dave7368]

Used to have a Lowe HF150 receiver back in the 90s. Wish I still had it.

[@FarpointFarms]

Those are nice radios!

[@rexonendor6763]

Good to go Eric. Great content, stay alert stay alive. Just curious of your MOS and Sig unit. Might have crossed paths back in the day.

[@qqube4762]

If all else fails a crystal radio. These radios can be very useful just to get some information. It doesn't need batteries and easy to build. I always have one around just in case. The POW camps of ww2 would build them just to get news from home. These type radios where called foxhole radios. Lots of time simple can be better.

[@rachelcody3355]

awesome video, just found your channel and subscribed. I would add one more to the top 3, make it 4. A police scanner. You can hear all the local emergency traffic. Know where roads are blocked, hear calls as they come in.

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed. 4th is a police scanner, and 5th is a weather radio.

[@bobbyscott3653]

Great video man! Everyone needs to have some type of radio in their house. Unfortunately not everyone thinks about the fact that cell phone system can be knocked out

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

Radio stations and television can be knocked out also, the first thing the US does when doing an operation like in Iraq and Syria is shut down the radio stations (either through power outages or bombing). In the USA, fewer and fewer stations actually broadcast any form of local news at all.

[@bloodybillanderson9294]

@@tenfourproductionsllc no mainstream tv cable or radio stations have any news anymore only the propaganda they want you to hear and its usually how bad this country is and how cops are nothing but murderers but whats really funny is that alex jones has been right more times than hes been wrong thats why he has been banned on social media yet he's on ham radio everyday lol 😆

[@BikerGirlTraveler]

I agree with what you said about CB radio. Recently I saw a video of some guy who did a 600 mile trip with his wife and took his GMRS radio along. The radio was dead the vast majority of the time. He tried reaching out to others to chitchat while driving and no one replied. For me, I would rather have GMRS radios over FRS any time. GMRS radio can have more features (if you are into that) and they use the same frequencies as the FRS radios, but in some channels they can transmit at a high wattage. Right now I am about to order a couple of MURS radios. Since there is no standard SHTF radio system, I feel that it is good to have at least one of each in case you need to communicate with others who don’t have GMRS or whatever type of radios your have.

[@FarpointFarms]

You make some great points on the GMRS and MURS

[@barrysallade3788]

Hey Eric the fcc has allowed CB Radio to have FM as a modulation mode. Great videos, keep it up. 390 in Ky out!

[@forgetyourlife]

Ever heard of the FM Capture Effect? Its going to spoil alot of the fun for AM users.

[@barrysallade3788]

@@forgetyourlife yes as an engineer i have, as a long time cb'er folks have used fm for years below 26.965 mhz to talk skip across America and beyond. My personal opinion is that FCC should have set aside some channels above or below the traditional 40 channels for fm mode.

[@thomasmaughan4798]

@@barrysallade3788 Given the compliance rate of Citizens Band, I have a doubt the FCC would be obeyed had they done so. It is a good idea of course but unless citizens sort out which are going to be FM channels it is going to be a bit noisy.

[@arlenewolf5260]

Hi Eric, Great Video! Don't forgot MURS. I am going to install a GMRS repeater at the new base. I wish you were my neighbor. I am in the Foot hills of the Great Smokey Mountains in E. Tn. I have enjoyed the CB Hobby since the 1970's. It is a blast to play with.

[@Swoop180]

I remember and sorely miss listening to Art Bell, he got me many many miles down the road!

[@robertlyman9789]

You could pick him up on skip on like 2-3 different stations, would fade in and out. Miss those days

[@tomeemerson]

Art Bell. Great show.

[@DP-hy4vh]

On shortwave, I sometimes listen to Radio New Zealand International. Here's the times and frequencies that can be heard in the US; 13.840 MHz - 00:00 - 05:00 UTC 11.725 MHz - 05:00 - 06:00 UTC 7.245 MHz - 06:00 - 13:00 UTC

[@FarpointFarms]

Hey, thanks for the info!

[@WXFD-Media]

Now we just have to be concerned with FM now being approved for CB bands

[@robertwilliams-wd6cp]

That reminds me I have the old Teaberry Model T in the shed attic and a bevy of old mobile antennas . My favorite Valor fiberglass with short stinger atop , used on the motorcycle. Thanks for the video! KRC 1685 Troy, Ohio.

[@Brantastic07]

I personally believe police Scanners are great type of radios that people for emergency purposes

[@ericchilton3781]

most citys have gone to digital encryption thats computer controlled......equipment is expensive and possibly not legal to own.

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

outdated though. Most agencies now use digital and encryption making listening impossible or very expensive. Ham radio also, even during hurricanes, no one is relaying actual information, just ragchewing.

[@ericchilton3781]

@@tenfourproductionsllc cb would probably be the best bet ...you can pick used ones up for cheap and locals that have them mobile will talk about whats going on ......i been in cb radio off and on for 20 years and ive been buy new stuff and pulling out some of my older stuff setting it up ....20 years ago out town was hit with a tornado and it took out a substation and main grid wires for our town.....cell was used then but not many towers ...the power was out in our county for 24 hours and you couldnt get any info for what was going on....right after that i ordered me a new dx949 galaxy radio and put it in my truck ........and i can get the info i need now if it ever happens again.....

[@mobulusmoby3864]

A multiband handcrank/solar, with ability to charge cellphones, is a great addition to the list...

[@FarpointFarms]

They do make a couple of nice shortwave crank/solar radios.

[@bobbellendovich6825]

First time I heard Alex Jones was on shortwave radio transmission. He doesn't seem so crazy now.

[@NoNORADon911]

Tubby is there to gather info, keep you from EVER looking at the country in my name. His radio station is J owned. He is some truth some lies.

[@NoNORADon911]

2 out of 3 of my comments posted on the J tube, meh

[@NoNORADon911]

@@Another-Address An EMP would probably not be a bad thing at this point.

[@RedfishInc]

In a world gone insane the insane seem normal.

[@matthewlangley5565]

"They turned the frogs gay"- Alex Jones

[@richardmerriam7044]

A multiband radio w/weather band is crucial, especially with the alarm feature. The only problem with radios without S.A.M.E. technology is receiving alarms from distant counties that don't affect your area.

[@FarpointFarms]

Not bad points at all!

[@NukaVaultReadiness]

Always great advice and videos Eric! Being the "comms guy" of the family, I got into Ham (and licensed) about a year ago. Still needed something for family to communicate, so then followed GMRS. My CB is also on my desk, but I need to get it set up fully. Wanting to play more on it to get community setup and hear the locals. 73's to you and yours!

[@marcuskeulertz5852]

Well, i got in touch with spanish speaking medium wave stations when i lived in the US. Utah Had some community radios for the dispersed latino immigrants over there. I enjoyed their music they played and the discussions via telephone in calls. Back in Germany i got in touch with several european medium wave stations which broadcasted all over the continent.