BaoFeng F8HP - A Radio for the Backcountry
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 พ.ค. 2018
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The BaoFeng BF-F8HP 2-Way Radio is one of the gateways for people into the HAM Radio (Amateur Radio) world. I have no desire to get my HAM license, so how is this thing useful for me? Ultimately, I think it is a pretty awesome emergency radio for backcountry adventures.
While there are more and more devices that can help get you out of a bind if something catasrophic happens out in the mountains, a lot of them are still cost prohibitive. Additionally, many of them are fairly limited in their use. For example they will send a distress signal, or a brief pre-programmed message. The BaoFeng Radio has a lot more going for it.
First off, the BF-F8HP is a 2-Way radio. Meaning you can transmit as well as receive. It also has a pretty substantial 8-Watt output, which is a step up from the BaoFeng UV-5R, a earlier model. Couple that with 128 programable UHF and VHF channels, the ability to receive FM radio stations, built in flashlight, scanning function... There is a lot going for it. I even find it valuable for no other reason that to use it as a weather radio.
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Since I last saw this video, I got my HAM license. Not that hard if you study, then you'll fly right through it! The reason I recommend a license is you'll have a little clout and recognition from those that may come to your rescue should the need arise. It's good for 10 years and cost only 19 bucks. Not to mention if you get on the local HAM frequencies, you'll get some sound advice on trails and make friends in the area that know the ropes real well.
Maybe I’ll make the time for it this year. I can appreciate the advantages.
I have a bafoeng radio I hit tester all and now I can't hear anything can someone help me
I meant I hit reset all
@@jusinarmstrong4042 not sure Justin. :(
@@KitBadger ok thanks
A few things.... First, the FCC clearly states that when *human life is at risk,* one may use whatever radio spectrum available to get help.
Second, though not technically legit, simplex usage of FRS frequencies out in the middle of nowhere - the radio equivalent of that adage “does a tree falling out in a forrest, actually make sound?”
Though slightly beyond this radio’s Tx capability, 121.5 MHz is the ICAO “Distress Frequency” for aircraft and well within its Rx range.
Likewise, these Baofeng radios CAN transmit down into the tippy-top of civil aviation frequencies. Meaning, if some sort of airlift rescue were needed - comms would be possible.
All that said, using this radio to call for help - FAR less explaining would be necessary calling on a regional ham repeater vs. jumping onto a public safety frequency.
Us hams are generally more likely to simply facilitate distress calls, than government agencies. I imagine it would very much be like that scene from the original *”Die Hard”* movie....
“I’m sorry sir, this channel is reserved for emergency traffic only.”
“No f-ing s-t, lady! Does it sound like I’m ordering a pizza?!?”
Thank you for the breakdown Hans! Also, I don't think I mentioned that I had the local repeaters programmed in there as well. Thank you for watching!
WAOO!! WELL EXPLAIN!! SIR👍👍
All your points about airband are invalid if this radio doesn't support AM. I don't know of any baofeng that does support AM. They all only use FM.
1500 watts on frs. Lol
legal to transmit for emergency use.
Yea but are you ready and is the radio set up properly? I doubt it if you never use it to test and practice. They are very complicated and customizable.
By the way these radios are now on sale on amazon for $45.
Licencing doesn't ensure talent or skill. I used a similar but less complicated computer-program-only radio known as a WIFCOMM for work. If you use CHIRP software, programming is easy, and programming manually isn't that hard. Less than 1 hour of TH-cam videos make you a proficient baofeng programmer/operator. If you know the NATO phonetic alphabet too, you're most of the way there.
@@hammer-r I paid 20 on eBay.
@@USNJackman Licencing gives you the ability to transmit, which does give you both talent and skill. Without actually every using one, and then trying to transmit in an emergency situation, you set yourself up for failure, because then you learn that nobody can hear you on the freqs you have put into them, or the radio is broken. You also learn very valuable information about radio wave propogation, and best practices. If you think a licence won't help you, you are only kidding yourself.
@@USNJackman After 2 cables, I gave up on programming. Just inputed a couple of repeaters for now to listen. 👍
I scanned the comments, and didn't see a GMRS license mentioned. I have a UV-5R with an ExpertPower 7.5 inch antenna (seems to make a difference in RX/TX), and didn't want to wade through the FCC Amateur license testing.
Instead, I spent $70 and got a 10 year GMRS license that covers me, and my entire immediate family to use the UHF frequencies. Doing this allowed me to start using the numerous GMRS repeaters around central Washington, and I've been amazed at how far I'm able to communicate.
On a recent camping trip, I was able to talking at full quieting a measured 36 miles to a repeater, which then can reach about a 100 mile radius. Pretty cool! I'm getting a second UV-5R, so my wife and I can talk over repeaters.
Idaho has a number of GMRS repeaters, so I think it would really be worth your while to check into that license.
I am actually curious on that Tim. First off I think that is awesome you did that, but the curiosity comes with the license. Is there something with respect to a limit on the wattage that it is good for? Does the Baofeng have too high a output for it?
Kit, there are limits on how much power you can use for GMRS. To the best of my knowledge, it's not limited by what type of unit you're using, but by the frequency. The following link is not from the FCC, but it looks reputable, so hopefully one can take it as gospel: bettersaferadio.com/fcc-adopts-long-awaited-changes-prs-bands-gmrs-frs-cb-murs/
One thing to keep in mind, and which you may already know: the FCC has an odd stipulation that radios used for GMRS may not have a removable antenna. My UV-5R's have detachable antennas, which I like. I've gotten aftermarket antenna's for both of them, but haven't really been able to rigorously test the performance. The stock antenna is pretty good for most use -- the aftermarket unit will likely improve performance at the fringes of reception. From everything I've read, the likelihood of the FCC going after GMRS user's with removable antennas is REALLY low - like non-existent. I personally don't care that my radio's don't meet type specification - they aren't putting out any different signal than a unit with a permanent antenna. I can also attach my little handheld unit to a much larger antenna, using an adapter, and have a pretty good base unit.
I just got a Commountain external mic for my radio, and REALLY like using it....Though my wife did ask me if I was just wishing I could play soldier with my radio's... I said yes.
Ahh, gotcha. Thanks Tim.
its just a really good repeater i can get a repeater 70 miles out on 4 watts but some repeaters much closer are no go. some people put more into there repeaters then others, but gmrs is honestly just so...corny. 70$? jeez, 10 bucks and 5 for gas and you have a ham license.
I do have a GMRS licence. some channels are allowed up 35 watts. midland radio has 35 watt mobile radios I have one. The FRS is .5 watt and can not have removable antenna. its good for 10 years now. going threw my paper work from the FCC. the information is on FCC.gov. there is 50Ch in the FRS/GMRS band as of 2017. midland radio sells FCC approved 50 ch GXT 1000. you must fallow chart . different power on some channels. be very careful talking .
I keep a wind-up NOAA radio at home. No idea why it never occurred to me to keep one of these in my pack when I’m off on adventures. I can think of at least two times where my stress level was through the roof and this would have at least given me the relief of a sense of a safety net. Definitely grabbing one, and might even get licensed. Thanks for this.
For sure man, they are pretty cheap insurance. :) And getting licensed absolutely opens doors.
It is 100% legal to transmit in case of emergency, so you don’t need a license!
But will advise to get a license so you can transmit so in case of emergencies you will have some practice.
That is a *very* good reason to get the license. Like any piece of kit the radio isn't a magic talisman that will get you out of trouble. You have to know how to use it and practice with it.
@@danmorgan3685 Then you need to be out of job to have the time to understand how ham radio works.because those ham radios are make hard in purpose to operate.
Great piece of kit, thank you (you got the best backyard ever)
Agreed, pretty hard to beat. :)
Some of the 2meter or 70cm repeater pairs that cover your area will serve you well.
I actually failed to mention that in the video. There is about 6 or 7 of them in the area that I have programmed in. Good catch!
Great video!!!
Finally, someone that breaks it down so beginners can understand. Just subscribed
Thanks Greg!
Thank you for being honest and accurate.
No problem, thank you for watching!
Very informative. Thanks.
No problem, thanks for watching!
I have the same radio. Use it as a back up and a FM radio when I was Puerto Rico after the hurricane. I also bought a spare radio battery that takes AAs. Good video!
Nice! I've seen those battery packs that take AAs. I think that is a solid upgrade from a preparedness standpoint.
Nice i was thinking to buy one in any case something like maria pass again here in PR.
I passed my Ham Tech exam yesterday. I dare say it was relatively easy. Like you I primarily plan to use my BaoFeng for hiking because where we go cell phones are dead. No service. We are in the habit of putting our phones in airplane mode as soon as we get to the trailhead and just use them as cameras. I highly recommend “studying” for your ham license. There’s several apps, books, websites, and TH-cam vids that make studying easy.
Awesome Mark, congratulations.
Excellent vid and review. Straight forward and to the point! SUB earned. Be safe out there! 😎
Thanks!
Face to Face! Nice! One of my favorites!
Right on!
I do like these radios and have had several people recommend getting on and getting licensed, but I also have family who like to follow my travels and be able to communicate. I recently picked up a Garmin inReach Mini. It is a pricey tool, but works really well as a satellite two way text messenger, gets you weather, and can have a near real time tracking feature.
That is awesome Keith. Is is a subscription service?
explore.garmin.com/en-US/inreach/
One of my friends has one of those I just checked out. Pretty cool...
this is the exact video i needed to see! not knowing anything about 2 ways or ham radios, but i want to see someone's take on how it serves them in the backcountry. thank you. also, just listening is totally legal w/out a license, i think!
good video and information and what a great place to be up there. that radio will transmit for miles if you're up high
Thanks man! I can't imaging how far that thing would reach up there, not to mention the local repeaters I have programmed into it. :)
Hey everyone, I live in UT, really up in the mountains. I spend most of my time outdoor and the weather can really get NSATY up here within a minutes. I purchased the Mirkit Radio Baofeng UV-5R MK4 8W MP. I am a cert. license holder jus to make sure I won't get in trouble. I have to say using this UV-5R has saved my lives in many ways. Totally recommend the certification. you will learn a lot more. Now with the COVID-19 crisis Both Cert. General and Tech are just $15 for 10 years.
Good video 🇺🇸
Good video.
Thanks Geoffrey.
One of my nicknames is Badger, happy to find your channel. Great video.
Right on Robbie, thank you for watching!
Those radios can be programed to GMR FRS channels " legal non licensed family radio " and you can use them to communicate . Also , it is legal to use in an emergency situation to obtain help .
@Gray Au Ho Hum Gary , you never go above the posted speed limit , I'm sure.
The world will not come to and end with the FCC swat team at your door over 1 watt. Get a Life !
Do you need to Jail break or reset to factory in order to use gmrs?
Amazing intro song!!!💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻
Awesome vid. Just got one for my b bag,) list is good for sure. Chirp program is useful). All marine too.:)
This review came at the perfect time! I just started playing around with my old Grundig radio and was thinking about getting a serious two way. I'm so glad you reviewed this. Thank you! Also.... That T-Shirt! Lol. You just gotta love that song.
Synchronicity of the Universe! I'm glad it came at a good time man. And yes, the shirt. :) From the guys over at Q actually.
Wow, you HAM dorks are hardcore about your little piece of paper. Nice vid, I have this radio as well and it is great. I use the regular two way frequencies and talk no problem to people hiking or hunting two miles out. I do have the NA-771 antenna. Big difference
Ya, there are some die hards. :) I'll take a look at that antenna, thanks!
J perry, so what happens when you guys chat on the ham without a license? I’m assuming FCC agents don’t come running out of the bushes. Lol. But seriously, do you guys 3ver get hassled by ham guys
Chuck nothing happens. I don't use it like a cell phone. Just short responses with proper radio language. Like I said I stay on the Walmart radio frequencies and only use the weather bands to listen.
TGC Sent me. But I subscribed because you're in Idaho! I love Idaho, wish I could move to the panhandle one day. Greetings from a Polish guy living in Ireland.
Thanks for checking my channel out! Idaho rocks. If you ever make it up here, it is worth the trip. :)
Love the Face to Face
Thanks!
I Bought One On Ebay for $32 Packaged And Everything Works Great Gonna Start Studying For A Ham Licence I’m Only Using It To Listen To Frequencies Till I Get A Licence
Nice, that is a score.
What a backdrop.
Just bought my dream property in Sandpoint. Idaho is awesome especially for hiking mountains.
Congratulations! That is some beautiful area up that way.
This strategy depends heavily on whether or not there's anyone else out there listening on the frequency. Even if you're on top of a mountain/ridge, with line of sight to a highly populated area, the chances are still pretty slim that someone is actually listening. I think this would be a better strategy with a satellite phone like the Iridium 9555 with some prepaid minutes. The price is not comparable to the Baofeng, but it would be much more reliable to contact help in a backcountry emergency. And I say this as a licensed General class amateur radio operator and Baofeng owner. Keep up the good work, I like this channel.
Fair points.
Personal locator beacons are getting cheaper these days, not to mention newest IPhone 14 lets you send distress SMS via iridium. Seems like we are spoilt for choice...
Interesting reading all the comments. It made me learn some stuff about gmrs and FRS. Looks like I am free and clear to use either frequency in Canada without a license. I do have to agree with you all that have mentioned that basically if it's a life saving situation that communication by any means will bypass American laws.
Informative video BTW👍
You are clear but make sure you have a GMRS/FRS radio that is licensed. These ham radios that can operate in GMRS/FRS frequencies aren't licensed to transmit on those.
@@Crlarl just a typical consumer walkie talkie by Motorola.
It also works on business frequencies, GMRS and FMRS with the latter being license free.
Yes! I haven't really dipped into that side of it but I need to make time to. Thanks for watching and the tip.
Just FYI - it's still not legal for any of those uses. Though they make a couple of locked-down versions of the 82 that are - the MURS-v1 is totally free to use, and the GMRS-v1 is $70 for a 10-year shareable-with-immediate-family license that's no-test.
That said, I'm partial to the 82, and they make a similar 8-watt version (82HP) for about the same price. Just feels more like a radio. Otherwise has pretty much the same features as this one.
Good presentation. One thing you should know is that FCC grants you permission to use any communications device at hand in an emergency or disaster. So it's not actually illegal for you to use it for emergency. Second getting that Technician's license to use the BaoFeng is child's play. On line training takes about 10 hours and virtually everyone passes. You should go for it. There are many uses in the back country besides emergency. Also, with 8 watts, unless you can find a repeater nearby, you're not going to have a ton of range unless you climb high...I'd say 2-10 miles max. Enjoy that glorious backcountry, it is often the best place on earth.
Thanks for the tips and kind words Peter!
For you use, I recommend a garmin messenger, or a sat phone first. Way better range, obviously. Maybe a radio to supplement.
Quansheng is the same radio and has a rubber gasket around the antenna, which makes it more water resistant. Get the baofeng wet one time, and good luck trying to get it to work after that.
It takes 1 week to study for your HAM and take the test remotely from home. Get the license so you can practice and test your radio in those areas. A handheld doesn’t reach as far as you would think.
I think is more about the money. It is cheaper to hypothetically buy a Baofeng and program GMRS, FRS, MURS, or marine frequencies than it is to get all those radios separate from each other and pay all that money. And if you talk on unlicensed frequencies. There is no one to snitch on you or trying to track your signal like ham. That's why the sky is the limit on CB. If you know what I mean. That radio is cheaper with no modifications required.
Great review for I am a guy just like you.
Thanks
Thanks!
I like your hard-coreness ;-)
Haha, right on man. :)
Good video. Just ordered...thx for making me spend money:)
Sorry to twist your arm Kevin. :) Thanks for watching!
I got my ham license about 3 years ago now. Received a BF-F8HP from my father a fellow ham. This may be a great radio but good luck getting it programed or set up to do anything!!! I have spent many hours trying to set up and program the radio and still have never spoke to anyone on my BF-F8HP as It is difficult to get it set up to work.
Have you heard about CHIRP yet?
I've yet to see the prisons full of people who transmit without a license. The FCC was supposed to have reduced the license from $70 to $35, but have been dragging its feet for months. And the courts have consistently held that the airwaves belong to the people. So if you want to use these as walkie-talkies, go for it. As long as you don't sing, whistle or infringe on other people's use of the frequencies, go ahead and use them. If you see an FCC helicopter with a mounted machine gun flying around your location, I take back everything I just said. Nice video. (Hamsters take great pride in their license numbers, though, so watch about transmitting around them without a license.)
I found out test were offered in my town 4 days before it happened. I studied up and prepped it for a total of maybe 5 hours. Took the test and passed. Got my Technician license for free. Just go to ARRL to find a test being offered near you. It adds to the benefit that if you need to talk to someone for a semi emergency situation, you could. Or ask someone on the radio more specifics about weather that's applicable to your situations, most hams will be happy to help.
That is awesome man, congratulations. I may have to look and see when they are offering tests here.
@@KitBadger yeah, it's simple and straight forward. Just check on the ARRL site. They list all classes and exams in your location.
One of the main reasons Im hesitant in getting a license is that, unless you pay for a PO box, your name and address are displayed under your Call Sign, so every time you go live and give out your call sign, someone can look that up within seconds and know your first and last name and most likely your personal home address. Its a complete invasion of privacy. Doesnt matter if you have something to hide, the fact is, you cant always trust people to do the right thing, and if you happen to say something that some one else didnt like, well... you get the picture...
Really? I didn't realize that. Good to know, thanks man.
www.arrl.org/advanced-call-sign-search It literally takes seconds.
Regarding licensing: having a license makes it quick and easy for anyone trying to help you to identify who you are through your call sign. Also, it is NOT illegal for you to use any frequency in order to obtain emergency help so don't worry about that part at all - but getting licensed is like getting a drivers license: you don't need one to drive but learning the rules of the road makes it easier to not crash into each other.
Right on, thanks for the input, that totally makes sense. And thank you for watching Nate!
you're the man !
I have a uv5r upgraded with a extended antenna and a larger battery attached to my chest rig. Happy with it but I’ve yet to test the range in my region if I were to communicate with a range/battle buddy.
And yeah I don’t wanna get a license for ham, but not gonna discourage people from getting one.
Nice setup!
All that on your chest rig?? How do you do your militia thing with a dick so big??
Consider upgrading the antenna to the 15” and getting the programmable cable.
I got my license yesterday and considering buying this radio. The exam was free for me and the whole process took 2 hours of waiting and 10 mins for the exam. I drove 2 hours to the site and two hours back home. Fml haha
Awesome, congratulations!
Kit Badger Thanks! Oh, and apparently this radio causes up to 3 harmonic interference throughout the VHF spectrum which makes it a bad radio for transmitting, but for your purpose, still an awesome radio to listen with. 😄
I just got this radio but it was branded a 5vR updated edition. It was only $35. too!
Score! That is rad. They are great little radios.
Easy to get a ham license. Many folks out there who can help you and fees are minimal, if not free. If you want to use a radio for emergency, you should practice and would need a ham license to do that. You’ll want to know about repeaters and how they work as they would greatly benefit someone out and about. Hand helds work best line of sight and if you don’t have that, you’ll want to use a repeater. If you buy a ham radio, get a license, join a net and practice using it.
Yes, get your License, also using Simplex mode, even with a good antenna, you might get range of 3 to 5 miles, but only if you have good LOS to your target. I should know, I own one. So if your in real wilderness/back country, and you try to use this radio to call for help, your more or less screwed. They just don't have the range.
Right on, and thanks for watching James.
That’s what repeaters are for, if your in a life or death situation you can hit a repeater and communicate for 100’s of miles.
@@TheIrongutz I am lucky enough to live in a town with four active repeaters. Three on two meter and one on 440. Of the four I can hit three of them easy with my F8. However, the fourth one, which is about ten miles north of where I live. I cannot hit due to the terrain between my house and the repeater site. Of the three other repeaters, only one is linked to two other repeaters. So if your in the woods, or on a mountain, or out on the sticks, so to speak, your little BF F8-HP, may be unable to contact any one.
@@longrider42 I’m no radio tech but I live in the Rockies where we have mountain top repeaters that cover huge areas and have never had many issues getting repeaters whether we were in valleys, trees etc… I guess repeater placement and number of repeaters matter.
@@TheIrongutz I live in Cheyenne, I have, with my 8 watt Baofeng. I've been licensed since 2016. Besides the Rockies are hardly wilderness any more. I'm talking like the real back country, no cell phone, no nothing. But then again. I've been lots of places cut off from the world. And I have hiked a lot in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Just saw this video (April 2020), After buying a similar model. You do have some valid points. (Even if they are highly illegal!) Better to be safe, than sorry!
I have been a HAM Radio Operator for years, and it was not hard to get my certification. And the FCC doesn't bother me. (The feds have me in many data bases. Just like you!) But being certified, does allow you to train with radios, learn how to work them better, and use them in times of crisis, and not have fear of repercussion later. Used my gear, last night, when 5 tornadoes plowed through Ga. at 3 AM.
Dang man, I trust you are safe? Stay well man.
@@KitBadger NOT Knocking your video, at all! If someone doesn't want to go through all the HAM stuff. It is better to be safe than sorry. But, if they do, the world of communications is opened up, to them. I just got back into it, when I learned - Now you can talk around the world, from a W.T., free, through the internet!
AND Thanks for asking, and Yes, we are doing well, here in Ga. I think my wife & I already had the "Mexican Beer-flu", back in February, (Since it was NOT the regular flu!) and got over it in 3 weeks! Coughing, sneezing, No fever, felt like hell! I'm going to get tested as soon as they have the After Virus, enzyme test available.
If there is an immediate threat to life and/or property, you can transmit want any frequency that you desire. I’m going on a Boy Scout backpacking trip in New Mexico this summer, and all of the local law-enforcement and fire departments use standard conventional FM analog modes for their communication. I programmed all these frequencies in addition to the staff frequencies into my handheld. It’s nice to have the peace of mind that you could literally press the button and be directly connected to dispatch and first responders if a deadly situation were to arise. Where I am going, satellite locator beacons work, but coordination of a rescue would be a big headache due to the fact that rescuers would not know how the Boy Scout Ranch runs. Local law-enforcement and campus staff are the only ones that know how the camp runs and where everything is located, and they are all very well-trained.
Jack Paylor how was philmont? :)
@@lukebeaver640 Amazing. People aren’t lying when they say it’s a trip of a lifetime.
Great video, i have a few of the UV-5R radios and UV-5RHP models myself and have been trying to figure out some of the best frequencies to program. Would you be able to share your full "cheat sheet" list that you keep and the frequencies that you have programmed? i would be interested to see some of the channels and take a look at the list in more detail! Thanks!
Most frequencies depend on location! You should use the CHIRP program (chirp.danplanet.com) to configure your radios, which allows you to import standard frequencies (e.g. GMRS/FMRS/NOAA) and location-dependent frequencies (repeaters and emergency). Location-dependent data sources are www.radioreference.com and www.repeaterbook.com/repeaters/index.php?state_id=none.
In an emergency, FCC regs allow you to broadcast on any frequency as long as no other method of communication is available.
That was mentioned to me, which is awesome. Glad people won't get burned trying to save lives. :)
@@jturning all are great points Jason. It really comes down to time for me. I'm spread pretty thin. :)
It's not illegal to use it without a license in emergencies.
I have its cousin. The uv5-A and several uv 5r . The fm radio is great. I will go camping, or visiting two states away. The radio provides weather, info. And a chance to go on 2m/70cm if there is a deep problem . The added extra of a solar cell and battery bank. Insures. That I've got the news thing in the bag tks Fer good show. De kv4li.
You put me to sleep 💤
Well thanks for waking up long enough to comment. Have a great week!
I disagree. Keep your mouth shut if you don't have anything good to say hotshot.. FYI this is a great review for beginners. I just subscribed
Get the ham license. It facilitates training and practice, even for those who plan to only use it in an emergency. Without practice you're better off with a SPOT or Garmin InReach. Basic license lets you use short distance radios like the one in this video. Intermediate license lets you use HF radio like in a truck with a range of 1000+ mi.
You no the lic is so easy to get good luck transmitting with out testing it and using it
killer video man very informative. thank you.
Right on, thanks for watching Shane.
Carrying the radio? Great idea. Failing to invest the time or effort into getting the most out of your gear, really bad idea. In remote locations, that knowledge that you have been so quick to discount could very likely mean the difference between actually communicating with someone or just wasting your battery.
Exactly Steve G, and those public agency frequencies he rattled off may or may not be simplex or duplex, require a PL tone or DTMF to open a squelch. He might be wasting his breath. But if he knew a few VHF amateur repeaters in the area he's in, he'd have a higher chance of successfully communicating his situation to a real person. My two cents. Learn how to use the tools one has.
@@warsurplus I've found that most (all in my area) repeaters are locked, and require local club membership to access. Travel to a town outside your area, no membership, no repeater use.. essentially making the system useless to anyone but locals.
@@whatafukndick5660 Understand. Closed amateur repeaters are unfortunate, however in an emergency, one could transmit on the output of a closed repeater in hopes of maybe raising someone. My point was, that not understanding repeater pair frequencies, input and output, for public safety or personal use, will hamper operations in an emergency and probably result in wasting one's breath and exhausting the battery.
@@warsurplus So you're saying that someone might be listening to the repeater output frequency and hear a call, even though its not passing through the repeater.
@@whatafukndick5660 Yes, if you can't get into the input and are within RF range of a listener on the output, it's better than nothing. You should state you're transmitting on the output, can even say the frequency. Again, knowing this type of operational information in advance of an emergency is useful.
I hate to say it, but I hardly consider it badgered until it goes into an icy lake. I listened to that "To Build a Fire", Jack London audio book, my gear standards are really high now.
Well played Sir, well played...
So..... did you get licensed yet??
My wife even took the test and passed - and she typically runs only the car radio! Was a great educational tool - and we both learned some great things!
No, but I did travel to Georgia to participate in the IV8888 Range Day, continue to film/edit/post about 3 videos a week and continually work to be an awesome father for my 2 boys. So there is that...
Congrats to your wife though, that is awesome! Hopefully when things slow down some I can dedicate some time to it.
@@KitBadger LOL !! Rambo got his panties in a bunch... The 2nd sentence was all that was necessary, Sally...
@@arupian666 yeah I was reading some comments and he deff lost me as a potential sub. Geez
Do u have the 1-800 number frequency? For getting your "meditation" as Ace Ventura would say.
TGC sent me your way.... subed you :)
Awesome, thanks for checking out my channel!
You're welcome buddy.
Epic t-shirt lmao
Another good one from Q. :)
I just ordered the F8HP from Amazon , having some trouble researching a question I had on the batteries that come with this radio . Being a prepper , I like to think of the longevity of food or equipment in the aspect of " years "... does anyone know the usable lifespan of these batteries , as in would they still hold a charge 3 years from now , 6 years from now ? Etc... thanks and God bless =)
Good question Bill and I don't have a solid answer. I would probably use a battery tester on them occasionally, in addition to recharging them. When you start to see degradation, replace them I guess.
Li-ion batteries are good for a few years or 300-600 charge cycles from what I have read. They are cheap. You can buy backup batteries for these radios for about $15 each. They also make a battery eliminator for vehicles (lighter plug) and a battery shell that uses AA's. I'd say your options are pretty good for prepping, especially for the price point.
Concerning using your transceiver to communicate with the systems on your cheat sheet during emergencies, you realize of course that on most of them you will likely need to have programmed in the correct ctcss or dcs coded squelch tones, in addition to the correct frequency offsets (for repeaters), in order to be heard by the respective system users, right?
I programmed it with that.
You could program the FRS, GMRS, and MURS channels so at least another hiker could communicate with you on those channels.
yes
Those frequencies are all great to have in an emergency but it's unlikely you'll be able to actually reach them all, or even most, with an 8w handheld in the back country. I'd check repeaterbook.com for a list of the repeaters operating in the geographic area you'll be in before heading out. Again, illegal to operate on a repeater without a license unless it's a life and death emergency. Also, you may want to program in the 2 meter and 70 cm calling frequencies for Simplex (line of sight)communications. Most ham operators monitor them so there is a chance any SAR team will as well.
....The licensing is easy, and you would benefit from the education. All radios have limitations, and you will easily understand that with a Tech license. Go do it.... don't be lazy.
Haha, you're right, I should. :) We'll see...
Kit Badger Check out hoshnasi’s cram courses here on TH-cam. Get the app from HamStudy.org and you’ll get the license no problem. With the license you can practice using the radio. Sure, use it in an emergency but it’s worth your time to get the license. Subscribed.
Thanks man, I'll take a look.
No more morse code requirement you guys got it easy
fuck no code bullshit, its the way the test is now get the fuck over it.
Amazing scenery out there. I love the area I'm in but I have to say the swamps, creeks and rivers that surround me just arent as pretty as the mountains.
There are beautiful places all over, but I am definitely partial to the mountains. And how about that 12' wall of snow / ice right on the ridge-line behind me?! It was pretty awesome up there. :)
Kit Badger It is pretty awesome... hey after watching this video I did some research into Ham radios and if I'm not mistaken in my understanding there are Public Access channels that you can use on a ham radio without a license. Any insight into that? I know very little about radios... I kept seeing them referred to as peg channels.
There are some different "public" channels in a sense. If you read through some of the comments, some people chime in with far more knowledge than me. Big picture, you can use this radio on the frequencies with walkie talkies, but because the way the radio is set up, it's "illegal."
They got satellite berper can tex anywhere better than low power radio
Might I suggest getting your Tech ham License? Two reasons. First it’s pretty easy and will allow you to talk on it at any time And second and most importantly, it will give you experience using your hand held. Practice practice practice. When you are in an emergency situation, the last thing you want to worry about is how to use it. Your in pain, or confused or lost and panicking. It’s not as simple as a walk-in talkie. Walk thru the multitude of settings. It’s quite complicated. You need to practice finding the correct frequency and then making sure you have the correct settings, make sure it still works and that someone will hear you. You may find yourself in an area with no coverage but will not know it. If you use is routinely and are licensed , you can turn it on and talk just to be sure, before you head off to a climb that might give you concern.
Ultimately it’s up to you, but do you want to bet on it having never used it? Just my two cents.
I'd like to, it is a matter of when I can dedicate the time to studying.
I'd love to own one of these one day
Lauren
Great little radios. Only 65 bucks on Amazon. The Baofeng UV-5R is the exact same radio just less power 23 bucks. I have both and am blown away with the build quality. Hundreds of videos on both here on TH-cam.
@@DG-kq8zf I'll have to check the UV-5R one out on youtube too!
Lauren
If you get one, get the 'expert power' antenna. Many reviews on this antenna.
Just be careful while listening to police channels and all those others. Because if you push the PTT (Push To Talk) button, you'll be transmitting on their channel.
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008Y2SPH6?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title#
This antenna makes the UV-5R every bit as good as this radio with it's stock antenna. The antennas are awesome! Lots of videos on those also. The Nagoya 771 seems to be very popular. But it's long. Likely awesome while sitting around camp and the others are hiking with the shorter one.
Is it illegal to own one of these without a license?
Astronaut In Disguise
Just don't transmit on law, emergency, ETC. And make sure you just transmit with-in the legal FRS power unless you have a GMRS license. Then you'll know what frequencies and power you can use. Just stay in the FRS frequencies, ask 'is this frequency being used'? Don't talk over others, and you should be fine.
And don't get an amplifier!
Just use them for talking while hunting, or camping type of stuff. These aren't ham radios.
Always be mindful and courteous while using a radio. And have secondary channels to fall back to, if a channel is already in use.
I couldn't find a source but I feel like I read that it's not illegal to transmit with out a licence during certain emergencies. It might have just been it's not illegal to transmit on official frequencies. If I can find a source (that's not just some forum post) I'll update
Cool man, I'd love to see the source on that. Big picture, any DA that would prosecute or FCC agent that would fine you, if you used the radio to save a life, is pretty much a horrible human being...
Kit Badger yeah, that's pretty much what all the forums say, and how I look at it from your perspective. I couldn't find a source unfortunately but tons of people on the internet agree with the sentiment
For your sake, idk maybe u have them but all those police and rescue frequencies, you can only listen unless you have there pl codes or privacy codes, otherwise they can not hear you. I would also add to that list some of your local amateur radio repeaters and codes to that list. And to access a repeater u also need the pL code and frequency offset. But all in all definitely a good plan. Having your license is nice though because you can go to those areas and actually test your abilities, or know areas that you can actually reach a repeater. Obviously only amateur repeaters for testing.
I had them programmed. Good tip though.
You can use ham frequencies in a dire emergency! U can use any means necessary in a real emergency
You can listen on shortwave
You should get the repeater freq l too or maybe you already do.
I did, good call though.
where are you filming this from? Its such an amazing view..
Northern Idaho.
I have two (2) of the BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two Way radios. Am I allowed to use these radios to communicate with my family or do i need a license? I just need them for stuff like camping trips and communication in the house while my wife is upstairs and I am down in the basement. Is it legal for me and my family to use them in the home or camping trips?
Face to Face!!! 🤙
Yes! :)
that's a great radio for the price. I have GT3-TP with extra long antenna .I use GMRS which I can do. I got a 35 watt midland in the van. if it becomes life or deaf simulation any one will get help to you.A real emergency talk wherever someone can hear you. great points about the radio. But the HAM no code tech licence is real easy. even the GMRS is easy.
Thanks for watching!
You're a good guy I know exactly what you mean but it'd be nice if you just got your technician license you're very cool very nice 💯 just get your technician license is easy
Nice video... Nicer background! I picked up one of these for our up-coming vacation to the mountains of Colorado. Do you get reception across the ham bands in the mountains? Also, the Ham tech license is pretty easy.. I studied for only a week with some e-books from Amazon, and I aced the test.. The license is free, ($15 exam fee..) and good for ten years.
Thanks man! The reception was pretty good for me up there. I actually have a study pack for the test someone sent me. Every time I take a look at it, I usually find something else I should probably be doing. Or my boys are vying for my attention... :) I may revisit it sometime though. Thanks for watching.
Waste of 10$ and time, you've probably figured that out by now.
How did you find the frequency’s for search and rescue? I ride downhill mountain bikes alone a lot would definitely help
I believe if it's an actual emergency, you can transmit on any frequency without it being illegal
That is correct. It was brought to my attention after I posted the video. Thanks for watching John!
Time well spend watching this video. Thanks
Right on, thank you for watching Allen.
Can these be used for simple two way communication with people im camping with? I was planing on getting a simple walkie-talkie but like the idea of having these for emergencies
Would you share those frequencies for others that just purchased the BF-f8HD?
i got the uv5r 5W and a baofeng GT 3TP 8 W when i go out camping in the wilds but i go so far out the vhf and uhf will not work . only if i am high up i am a ham from the uk
Hey Kit Badger! Would you recommend this radio to someone just entering the world of comms?
Absolutely.
You made the comment "I made myself this little ghetto laminated cheat sheet". Being from a ghetto, I am so deeply offended by your remark about the ghetto, I want to call the wolds attention to your insensitivity to those of us who are actually from the ghetto. We as a people from ghettos, despise such rhetoric and insist that you immediately remove your offensive statements. I am just messing with you man! This was a great/helpful video. Don't be pissed, I was just messing with you bro.
Hahaha, well played. :)
For Long distance (Trekking - Hiking) walkie talkie through mountains a pair of these will work?