Posted: 2/23/2009 7:09:42 PM EDT
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I have 2 sets of FRS radios, a weather radio & a crank powered AM/FM radio with weather.
Is there any other system I should think about adding? |
| From my time in the Marine Corps, I can tell you that redundancy and multiple backups are desirable. You don't want to stick with just one platform. In a SHTF scenario, most likely CBs and FRS will be packed full of chatter. They could come in handy but may not provide much utility, and definately no security. Invest in a couple MURs radios and go for your HAM license. |
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Is there any other system I should think about adding? http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=10&f=22&t=604477 ar-jedi |
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What's the consensus on a disposable cell phone? For example, a $20 prepaid cell phone like you can get at walmart. If you are talking a localized SHTF, say like a hurricane, once power is restored sure. If you are talking true SHTF then most likely it would be a grid down scenario which means no cell towers. |
| I've got a couple sets of FRS/GRMS radios, a good portable scanner, a CB and I've converted a couple of old Motorola GM/GP 300's to 70cm HAM. Thinking about going ahead and shelling out the dough for a dual, maybe even a quad band HAM....Yaseu or Kenwood possibly. |
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Thanks to all for the replys. Looking for handheld CB next, then will look at other options mentioned. That will be about as worthless as a brick in a SHTF scenario. Mobile CBs already have marginal performance with 4' tuned antennas. I can get about 5 miles out of mine in FLAT terrain. Once in the mountains/city that is drastically reduced. Handhelds get about 1 mile of performance in optimal conditions. Once you get an obstacle in between you you can count on a few hundred feet. A few people I have wheeled with in the past have had handheld CBs and they could sometimes not reach the person in the back of the group if we were spread out. Take some time and get your HAM license. My 5W handheld HAM radio can reach out 5-10 miles simplex and that is drastically increased if I can hit a repeater (which is usually always). My 50W mobile can get out sometimes 50+ miles on simplex in optimal conditions and that is extended even further with a repeater (which I know I can hit from anywhere in the US on full power). |