GMRS Radios
Our multi-neighborhood communications group utilizes both Ham radio and GMRS radio equipment. Due to the ease of licensing, we are recommending that new users use the GMRS radios. If you are interested in more long distance capabilities, and are willing to take exams to receive license privileges, then talk to our communications group about our active Ham radio group.
The GMRS radios are line of sight radios. In other words, their transmission can be blocked by large buildings, hills, forests, etc. We have found that they work well in our multi-neighborhood area, and are capable of communicating with much of the Salt Lake valley. At street level, their use is usually limited to from 1 to 5 miles due to the trees, homes, and business buildings. Use of an elevated external antenna, and boosting the wattage to 50 watts extends the range to 5 to 10 miles.
What do we look for in a good GMRS Radio?
At least 100 memory slots - We are currently using 45 memory slots in our Emergency Operations Center code plug.
USB charging - With this option, you can charge your radio in the field from a power bank.
Removeable Antenna - This option allows you to purchase a better performing antenna, or connect to a mag mount or external antenna for improved reception and transmission.
Recommended GMRS Radios
GMRS Capable Radios by Boafeng
Baofeng UV-5R - There are more 5 watt UV-5r radios in the world than all other models combined. We have tested them and use them. They have lots of accessories available. - $25.00
Baofeng BF-F8HP - 8 Watt radio with 127 memory slots - $70.00
Baofeng UV-S9+ - 8 Watt radio with 127 memory slots, USB charging - $30.00
5 watt GMRS radio with superheterodyne receiver, 400 memory slots, USB-C charging, IP67 rating (waterproof, dustproof). - $140.00
Baofeng UV-9G - 5 Watt GMRS radio with 127 memory slots and an IP67 rating (waterproof, dust proof) - $50.00
Lots of these are in use in our multi-neighborhood communications group.
Tidradio TD-H3 - 5 Watt Ham/GMRS radio with 199 memory slots. It is not waterproof or dustproof. It can both be programmed and the battery charged using the supplied USB-C cable. It is small and lightweight and best suited for light duty use. ~ $40.00 for a single radio and ~$60.00 buys a pair.
Recommended GMRS Base Station
Wouxun KG-1000-G - This 50 watt GMRS radio has a lot of capabilities and is in high demand. It has 999 memory slots, and will monitor two channels or frequencies simultaneously. The KG-1000-G requires a 12V power supply, and an external antenna. Current selling price is ~$370.00
We use these in our multi-neighborhood communications group.
GMRS License Information
How to get a GMRS radio license - The GMRS radio license is issued by the FCC and the cost was recently reduced from $70.00 to $35.00. The license is good for 10 years, and does not require a test. The single license covers everyone in your immediate family.
You must apply and pay for the license online, and it is usually issued via email in 24 to 48 hours.
Zone and Area Frequency Assignments - (Restricted File)
GMRS Frequency Chart - Standard GMRS Channels and Frequencies
Description of our Multi-Neighborhood EOC Radio Menu - Information programmed into the radio memory slots in the EOC program explained
Stake GMRS Radio Inventory - Asset list of GMRS radios provided by the stake to wards.