I bought this to add to my growing collection of things I have always wanted and may also come in handy.So, I didn’t buy this to go completely crazy and geek out on all of it’s features. I just wanted a ham radio that would receive and maybe provide some entertainment value. Also, to have it on hand in case of a major emergency.And here I am now geeking out by all of it’s features.Seriously, this is a very fun piece of hardware. After receiving it, I downloaded the CHIRP software and spent a short time searching for frequencies in my area. I then programmed all of the channels (making sure to turn the transmit off, because I do not have a ham license) and I could have it scan through all of the 40 odd channels in my area.Then I programmed in the local weather station.Then I programmed in all the GMRS channels.Then I got my GMRS license.Then I ordered GMRS radios for the family.Guys, this stuff is crack. I think I now have a new hobby to suck all the cash out of my wallet.Ok, but let’s talk about these radios. This kit came with everything I needed. All the way down to earbuds I won’t use. The programming cable worked with no issues whatsoever.It’s a sturdy radio with a LOOOOOOONG battery life. I listen in to all the traffic stops in my area, including the naked streakers (why?) on the police band.The radio is capable of listening to 2 channels at once. This is great, because that means with my 2 radios, I can monitor 4 channels simultaneously. There are many many FCC rules around transmitting with these, so please be sure to do your research. You WILL need a ham license to transmit, but do not not one for receiving.Transmitting on GMRS channels is a grey area here, because of the power of these devices. I would suggest a lot of research and do not suggest you use these for such a thing….nope….wouldn’t suggest that at all. Heaven forfend.You will also need a GMRS license to use GMRS channels. Get a proper GMRS radio for that though…not these. Seriously.I absolutely LOVE this purchase. If you decide to get these, you will be surprised how quickly they will become as entertaining as they are. I highly recommend these.

To be used for emergency, and no power to Antenna towers for mobile phonesPro:Compact, light weight, Easy of use.Solid product with quality of MIL specificationCons:Manual book is small with small print. Hard to read.NOTES: Somehow, NO chargers for the radios (factory forgot!!)

This is the greatest bang for the buck you can buy in a hand held ham radio. Easy to use. Long life, long range. I live on a hill, so I get better range. But with the medium size antenna I am catching signals as much as 20 miles away from EMT and fire dispatch. No relay towers programmed in yet. I couldn’t be happier with them.If you don’t have a radio license, just look up standard walkie talkie frequencies, camping/hiking frequencies. You’ll be fine.I’m going to take classes and get at least the minimum license.

Yes it’s not the best! no it’s not going to hold up to weather or be the best radio out there! but for the cost it’s just fine. there’s things you can do to make this radio reliable in a outdoor setting but right out the box it’s not going to stand up to your tacticool environment. Change antenna the factory is trash recommend signal sticks they work great on this radio

Guess I’ll have to run the CD or get online and beg for help, this seems beyond my grip.I don’t even understand half the lingo in the tiny instruction book.Gone were the good old days of 8.5X11 clearly readable English instructions on this product. If a book is available please point me in the right direction. I am skeptical about putting in the CD and plugging in a cord when no clue where to start. It talks right out of the box, other than that it is totally vague.I would not recommend this for first timers or the very aged.