Whether you are hiking, backpacking, skiing or hunting in the wilderness, two-way radios (or walkie talkies) are an essential gear to carry for communication. After all, you cannot always expect to get phone network coverage in the remote outdoors or during emergency situations such as hurricanes or floods. These rugged, easy-to-use communication devices provide an excellent way to not only stay in touch with one or more people but can also act as a medium to receive weather and emergency information through NOAA broadcasts (for GMRS supported radios
But which are are best two-way radios for hunting and survival?
In this article, we will look at some of the best two-way radios for hunting and survival available in the market. It is worth mentioning that we would primarily look at mid-range, personal radios and not consider commercial devices as they are generally costlier and sometimes bulkier to carry. We will also look at the some of the factors to consider while picking the best two-way radios and share our top picks. Read On!
Best two-way radios for hunting and survival list
Some of the best two-way radios for hunting and survial are listed below:| Picture | Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Midland GXT1050VP4 | Size: 2.5"x1.75"x9.75" Weight: 5.0 oz. Advt. Range: 36 miles Actual Range: 3-5 miles - Best-selling walkie-talkie designed specifically for hunting and other rugged outdoor use. - Has 50 channels and 142 privacy codes. 9 Levels of eVOX for hands-free Operation - Has a bright LCD screen and ideal Camo look with 5 animal call alerts. - Rated at JIS4 water resistant rating, so can withstand splashes and showers. - Can run on included rechargeable battery or 4 AA alkaline batteries. - Comes with 3 years part replacement warranty. | |
  | BaoFeng BF-F8HP | Size: 2"x2"x10" Weight: 8 oz. Advt. Range: 30 miles Actual Range: 4-5 miles - High-end powerful two-way radio which is the next generation model of the popular UV-5R range. Made in China. - Comes with a 7" antenna that can provide a 8-watt dual-band signal. Requires GMRS license. - Wide frequency/channel (22 FRS + 28 GMRS) support with 128 privacy codes. - Fully programmable with features such as bright LCD screen, VOX and Offset functions and noise-reduction features that block out noises caused by signal intensity changes - Comes with a 2000 mAh battery with 3 power levels and 30% more battery life. - Backed by a 1-year domestic warranty and service in the US itself. | |
  | Midland GXT1000VP4 | Size: 2.5"x1.7"x9.8" Weight: 4.8 oz. Advt. Range: 36 miles Actual Range: 3-5 miles - Smartly designed two-way radio pair offering as many as 50 channels and 142 privacy codes. - This radio set has bright LCD screen, 9 Levels of eVOX for hands-free Operation and compatibility with NOAA weather services and alerts. - Rated water resistant with JIS4 rating – meaning can withstand mild splashes and showers. - Comes with 3 years part replacement warranty. | |
  | Yaesu FT-60R Dual-Band Two-Way Radio | Size: 2.3”x1.3”x4.2” Weight: 13 oz. w/ antenna Advt. Range: 32 miles Actual Range: 6-8 miles - High-end, Japan-made premium amateur two-way radio which offers dual Band VHF/UHF frequencies at 0.5 - 5W signals. - Offers over 1000 memory channels and compatibility with NOAA and other emergency channels. - Features a hard rubberized casing for durability and weather protection. Also has a built-in LED light. - VOX-enabled for hands-free communication and Vibration-Alert for incoming transmission. - Can run on rechargeable or alkaline batteries. Best-in-class battery life. - Comes with a charger, antenna and rechargeable batteries. | |
  | Cobra ACXT545 | Size: 1.96”x1.46”x5.16” Weight: 2.31 oz. Advt. Range: 28 miles Actual Range: 2-4 miles - An ultralight, stylish two-way radio pair, which offers 22 channels and 121 privacy settings. - Features a hard rubberized casing for durability and weather protection. Also has a built-in LED light. - VOX-enabled for hands-free communication and Vibration-Alert for incoming transmission. - Can run on rechargeable or alkaline batteries. - Weather Resistant at IPX2 rating. Other, fully water-proof models are also available. | |
  | Motorola MR350R | Size: 2.3"x1.4"x7.6" Weight: 5.1 oz. Advt. Range: 35 miles Actual Range: 3-4 miles - Top of the line, extremely durable radio pair from Motorola that offers communication across 22 channels with 121 privacy codes. - Unlike other radios, this radio is waterproof with IP67 rating meaning it can withstand rain and even submersion. - In addition to other standard features, the radio has a built-in LED light for emergencies. - Comes with 1-year manufacturer‘s warranty. | |
  | Midland LXT630VP3 | Size: 2.19"x1.27"x6.1" Weight: 4.2 oz. Advt. Range: 30 miles Actual Range: 2-4 miles - A lighter and cheaper counterpart of the other Midland two-way radios, featuring support for 36 channels and 121 privacy codes. - Features include VOX calling, dual power settings and compatibility NOAA weather channels and weather scan. - Has a bright backlit LCD display. - Can run on rechargeable (included) or 3 AAA alkaline batteries - Comes with 3 year part replacement warranty. | |
  | Retevis RT21 UHF | Size: 2.3"x1.3"x4.5" Weight: 6.4 oz. Advt. Range: 16 miles Actual Range: 1.5-2.5 miles - Solid-shell, screen less two-way radio that offers communication across 16 channels - Has built in Built-in scrambler, VOX features, alarm and other standard features. - Comes with 1-year part replacement warranty. | |
  | BaoFeng BF-888S | Size: 2.0"x1.0"x 4.1" Weight: 3.3 oz. Advt. Range: 22 miles Actual Range: 2-4 miles - Budget, pocket size, screen less model that offers 2 -watt communication across 16 channels. - In addition to other standard features, has a built in flashlight. - Comes with rechargeable Li-ion battery and belt clip among other things. - Comes with 1-year domestic warranty and service in the US itself. | |
  | Uniden GMR1635-2 | Size: 2.95"x1.7"x7.95" Weight: 5.6 oz. Advt. Range: 16 miles Actual Range: 1.5-2.5 miles - Budget, short-range radio set with 22 channels. - Features auto-squelch and fast channel scan for channels. Has a roger beep for interference-free communication. - Can run on rechargeable (included) or 3 AAA alkaline batteries. Features a battery-power indicator. - Also, comes with a belt clip. - Backed by three year manufacturer warranty. |
What are two-way radios and why do you need one?
As per Wikipedia, a handheld two-way radio (commonly known as walkie-talkie) is a transceiver that allows the operator to have a conversation with other similar radios operating on the same frequency (channel). These systems usually operate in a half-duplex mode; that is, the operator can talk, or he can listen, but not at the same time.
Two-way radios do not require a mobile network to operate and hence can be used in the wilderness. However, to communicate properly, they only need a clear line of sight for transmitting and receiving signals. Vegetation, buildings, terrains and metal obstructions can affect the transmission and reception while operating these. Since most of such obstructions are not present in the wilderness, except probably for terrain restrictions, they are an excellent economical communication device during an outdoor trip.
In everyday language, two-way radios are also referred to walkie talkies, based on the primary function these devices perform. Some of most popular activities in which these devices are useful are:
- Hunting
- Survival and emergency preparedness
- Mountaineering
- Hiking, Camping and scouting trips
- Fishing, sailing, and other water adventures
(Source: Wikimedia)
The most common two-way radio systems operate in the VHF and UHF parts of the spectrum at specific frequency bands as specified in specific countries.
In the US and Canada, these services can be primarily classified into FRS (Family Radio Service) and GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) systems.
FRS Radio Systems: The Family Radio Service (FRS) is an improved walkie talkie system authorized for use in US and Canada and uses channelized frequencies around 462 and 467 MHz in the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band.
Because of its operating frequency range, this frequency band does not experience interferences found on other lower Citizen Band devices.
Starting October, 2017 the FCC has extended the 22 channels for both FRS and GMRS use. Radios with a power rating of 2 watts or less are now classified as FRS radios, and do not require a license.
GMRS Radio Systems: The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS), like FRS, is a UHF service designed for short-distance two-way communication in the frequency band of 462 to 467 MHz. However, unlike FRS service, GMRS service requires a license in the United States, though some devices can be operated license free in Canada. GMRS licenses typically cost around $65 for ten years and covers you and your immediate family.
(A ham radio license costs $15 to take a simple 35 question test. Info Courtesy Tom – one of our readers!)
Such approvals are given for signals with a strength of up to about 7-8 watts. Another benefit of GMRS radios is that they can be fitted with optional antennas to extend their range.
These systems are an excellent medium for one-to-one instant communication. They are also useful devices for emergency and off-the-grid 2-way communication. Just by pressing the “Push-To-Talk” key, you can connect to your receiving counterpart and communicate. In addition, modern systems also offer one-to-many broadcast communication within a range.
Moreover, as an additional benefit, most two-way sets listed above are capable of receiving weather information and emergency alerts conveyed by the NOAA services in the US. Some even offer an emergency flashlight, making them an excellent choice for use as emergency radios.
In the next sections, we will look at the major considerations to keep in mind before picking the best two-way radios for hunting, survival and other outdoor activities and share our top picks.
How to pick the best two-way radios for hunting and survival?
Two-way radios generally come in pairs to ensure that they operate on the same frequency band and support the same set of channels, without having to scan for connection.
With so much underlying technological details and fine points, picking the best two-way radios can often be a challenging task.
Before looking for the best walkie-talkies for hunting and other outdoor activities, you should know the terrain where you would be using the system. You should not expect a very wide communication range in a dense forest or topographically diverse landscape.
Secondly, you have to decide if you need a set with or without a screen to display the frequency and channels. Finally, if you are going to opt for GMRS systems, you would have to register your device and get a license for using the system. Personal usage licenses are readily available through the FCC.Gov Website.
Once you have determined these things, you need to consider a few more additional factors. These major factors are listed below:
- Operating range of the set
- Number of channels and privacy codes supported
- Size and weight of the set
- Water protection
- Battery Life
- Additional Features
Operating range and signal strength the set
The correct operating range of the walkie-talkie is an important consideration. This range refers to the maximum distance between the two communicating sets for proper communication.
Most manufacturers advertise the operating range from 16 miles to as high as 36 miles. However, you cannot rely on just the advertised range even though longer advertised range generally means longer operating range.
The reason for the massive deviation from the advertised range is because this value is mentioned with reference to optimal operating conditions – no electromagnetic interference, ideal topography, and no weather interference.
However, in reality, factors such as geographical topography (canyons and valleys, dense forestation, tall formations), weather (rain, clouds, lightning) and obstructions (solid wood forests, buildings) limit the actual range that a set would support.
Typically, two-way radios listed above support at least 10% of the advertised range in normal wilderness environments – some trees, the topographical makeup of land, rain etc.
GMRS supporting devices such as BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio and Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair when licensed can support the use of additional long distance antennas such as Nagoya UT-72 Magnetic Mount Antenna and repeater stations which increase their range to as high as 6-8 miles. Check the reviews and feedback on the sets to determine the operating ranges.
Another factor that improves the operating range of these devices is the strength of signal they can use to relay the message. FRS strength is fixed under 1 watt; however, for GMRS supporting sets, this value can go up to as high as 7-8 watts. High-end sets such as the BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio supports three power levels and hence can be used over wider operating range. It is also worthwhile to note that operating on higher powers would drain out the battery of the radio sets a lot quicker, so high power settings should be used only when needed.
Number of channels and privacy codes supported
If you are going to hunt, hike or camp in a popular destination, then the number of supported channels and privacy codes becomes an important consideration. After all, you would not want somebody to eavesdrop on your communication.
A combination of supported channels and privacy codes tells the number of unique combination of communicating lines that you can pick from. Simply multiply the number of channels with the number of supported codes to determine the maximum limit.
For example, the Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair supports 50 channels and 142 privacy codes meaning you can pick any of the 5800+ combinations( 42 operating channels excluding NOAA and 142 codes each) for communication. Generally, 2600+ combinations (16 channels and 121 codes each) is a reasonable number to look out for.
Size and weight of the set
Since you would like to carry the set with you at all the times, the size of the device is an important factor to consider. Unlike Personal locator beacons, these sets are more than 5 inches long and hence need to be clipped to the belt, instead of put in the pocket.
However, it is a good idea to consider picking a set which small enough and still ergonomically designed to make it easier to operate even with gloves on. The BaoFeng BF-F8HP two-way radios devices are generally considered best for ease in handling and use.
If you are backpacking or hiking and carrying your own supplies, the weight of the device becomes important criteria to consider. Thankfully, almost all the sets are ultralight, with a weight less than 10 ounces and hence comfortable to carry along.
Keep the size and weight of the radio in mind before picking the best walkie talkie set for your outdoor adventure.
Water Protection
The advancements in water protection technology over past decades has helped in providing an extra advertising feature for two-way radios. However, you must be careful while evaluating an option as terms such as water resistant and water repellent have different meanings than waterproof.
Water resistant sets such as Cobra ACXT545 Two-Way Radios are able to provide considerable resistance against moisture and even resist penetration of water, but do not provide full protection. So water resistant packs cannot be exposed to mild to heavy rain and you would have to protect your devices when in rain.
Water repellent sets are one level above the water resistant ones. Water repellant design refers to sealed coating that does not allow water to settle on the surface and hence provides additional protection against exposure to water and moisture. JIS4 rated sets such as Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair fall under this category.
Hard rubberized case waterproof sets provide true protection against water, including submersion. Waterproofing is generally represented by IP rating (Ingress Protection Rating) with a rating of 6 or above considered reasonable. Because of costly building material, such radio sets are generally costlier than water repellent sacks. IP67 rated Motorola MR350R Two-Way Radio Pair is an example of a waterproof set.
Check out the product description and reviews to determine the true water protection level provided by the sets before picking the best two-way radios for hunting and other outdoor activities. You can also consider getting an outer case to provide better protection to your radio set. Check the accessories section for some such options.
Battery Life
Most devices run on 2 AA or 3-AAA batteries. In addition, many sets are designed to accept rechargeable Li-Ion or NiMH batteries. Generally, these batteries come as rechargeable packs with the device pairs.
As mentioned above, the higher the signal power, the lower the battery life would be. However, some radio sets such as the Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair have battery saving features that make the batteries last longer. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that the rechargeable battery packs ensure better waterproof operation than the alkaline batteries. Just remember to recharge the batteries to full before your trip.
Refer to the product details and reviews to ascertain the battery life of the specific walkie talkie model.
Additional Features
In addition to the factors listed above, there are some additional features that can make a two-way radio set purchase more attractive that others.
One of such feature is the presence of noise reduction features. High-end sets such as BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio set come with excellent features that that block out noises caused by signal intensity changes. This also helps in reducing interference from other signals and in extending the operating range of the radio set.
Another consideration is support for Voice Activated (VOX) and hands-free operation feature. With VOX feature, you can operate the radio hands-free when in active mode. This is especially useful if you are hiking or mountaineering in difficult terrain. Several VOX technical names – eVOX, iVOX etc. are used by manufacturers, so you can look out for these features before picking the most suitable set. The presence of earphone/headphone jacks also makes it easier to use earphones to operate the radio.
An additional feature offered by most sets is the LED flashlight for emergencies. Radio sets such as BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio and Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair have such flashlights built in the devices, making them as an excellent choice as emergency radios. Look out for such additional features as well while picking the best two-way radios for hunting and other outdoor activities.
Which are the best two-way radios for hunting and survival and what our picks are?
BaoFeng BF-F8HP radio – Editor’s choice for best all-purpose two-way radio for hunting and survival
The third-generation, BaoFeng BF-F8HP Tri-power Two-way radio is top of the line two-way FRS/GMRS supporting radio which is an advanced version of the popular UV-5R V2 model. This programmable, dual-band two-way radio has an option of selecting tri-power settings of 1, 5 and 8 watts. Unlike other models which did not include a range-extending antenna, this model comes with a 7″ dual-band antenna. The presence of GMRS channels, range-extending antenna and high-power operation means that this radio needs a standard GMRS license (the simple ham radio license would not be sufficient).
Because of the ability to transmit at around 7-8 watts and the presence of a 7″ antenna, this radio boasts of the one of the highest in-field operational range available in the market.
In an outdoor situation, this radio can re-transmit a signal as it supports use of repeater operation, meaning that it can receive and re-transmit a signal to increase the overall range of the two-way radio signal. This capability also makes this radio as the preferred choice for emergency two-way communication.
The Baofeng BF-F8HP radio has nice features such as a bright LCD screen, VOX and Offset functions and noise-reduction chipset that blocks out noises caused by signal intensity changes. The Baofeng BF-F8HP radio is fully programmable and also supports FM radio and has the ability to store 25 stations.
Another major improvement in the Baofeng BF-F8HP is an improved 2000 mAh rechargeable battery. This battery provides 30% more battery life and can last a full 24 hours on 5W setting.
Out of the box, the Baofeng BF-F9 radio comes with rechargeable Li-ion battery, antenna, earpiece and belt clip among all other accessories. And in order to support the US customers, the latest Baofeng radio set comes with one-year domestic warranty and service in the US itself.
- Top of the line dual-band FRS/GMRS set with tri-power settings.
- Maximum observed range of 4-5 miles among long distance radios. Comes with range-extending antenna.
- Improved design with 30% more battery life from 2000mAh Li-Ion battery.
- Comes with bright LCD screen, VOX and Offset functions and noise-reduction chipset that blocks out noises caused by signal intensity changes
- Programmable, supports FM radio and has the ability to store 25 stations
- One-year service warranty within the United States (Houston, Texas).
- Since it is imported by sea, the firmware can be considered a little outdated.
- Needs a GMRS license.
- Bulkier and costlier than other options in the market.
Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair – Best two-way radio for hunting and survival
The stylish Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Set is one of the most popular two-way radio model from the world-renowned manufacturer of military-grade communication products.
Designed specifically for hunters and preppers, the Midland GXT1050VP4 features a extra-rugged shell case that can take some beating. Though available in multiple colors, its Mossy Oak Camo color is perfect, unobtrusive look for hunting and other outdoor activities.
The Midland GXT1050VP4 has a set of 50 channels (22 FRS and 28 GMRS) and 285 privacy codes, creating a lot of non-interfering communication frequencies (6270 in total). It does require a GMRS license to operate.
The radio set has a bright LCD screen with a backlit display. This reduces the battery life of the set slightly, but is advantageous in evenings and nights. The radio also has additional features such as 9 Levels of hands-free eVox calling, superior whisper communication mode, NOAA weather channel sync, SOS siren and more.
The radio has an advertised range of 36 miles, though you can get a range of 3-5 miles in the wilderness. It also has 5 animal call alerts in-built in the radio.
One of the biggest advantage of Midland GXT1050VP4 is that it is rated at JIS4 , which means that it is built to withstand splashes and showers. That is good enough for most non-marine outdoor activities.
The Midland GXT1050VP4 radio set comes with two sets, earbuds, a recharging dock and other standard accessories. Moreover, like all other Midland sets, the Midland GXT1050VP4 Two-Way Radio Pair comes with a three years part replacement warranty and a satisfaction guaranteed commitment. This speaks volumes of the quality and reliability of this radio set.
- Best-selling walkie-talkie designed specifically for hunting and other rugged outdoor use.
- Supports 50 channels and 285 privacy codes and both FRS and GMRS bands.
- Supports Superior noise-free, low-volume communication along with 9 Levels of eVOX hands-free operation.
- Rated at JIS4 and designed to withstand water splashes and showers.
- Backed by a 3-year satisfaction guaranteed commitment and part replacement warranty.
- Needs a GMRS license to operate.
Midland LXT630VP3 Two-Way Radio Set – Best license-free FRS two-way radio
If you are looking for a license-free two-way radio for hiking, camping or other outdoor activities then check out the Midland LXT630VP3 two-way radio set.
This lighter and cheaper counterpart of other high-end Midland two-way radio models features a support for 36 channels and 121 privacy codes. 10 of the channels are compatible with NOAA weather channels which are scanned automatically as per your location.
The Midland LXT630VP3 has an advertised range of 30 miles and works well for 2-4 miles in wilderness. At 4.2 ounces it is also pretty light to carry around.
Additional features include VOX calling, dual power settings, vibration alerts and bright backlit LCD display.
The Midland LXT630VP3 two-way radio runs on a rechargeable battery or 3 AAA-cells It comes with a charging dock, wall charger, rechargeable batteries and belt clips. Like other high-end models, the Midland LXT630VP3 is backed by a 3-year manufacturer warranty.
- Lightweight, license-free FRS radio featuring support for 36 channels and 121 privacy codes
- High-quality construction with a backlit keyboard, two-power settings and compatibility with NOAA channels.
- Supports superior noise-free low-volume communication along with hands-free VOX calls.
- Backed by a 3-year part replacement warranty.
- Costlier than most other license-free FRS radios.
Two-way radio accessories
One of the most commonly sought after accessory for radio pairs is a cover for extra protection. You should first check if the manufacturer provides a cover for the specific model, as this would ensure the best fit. If not, you can consider the following options for specific models:
- abcGoodefg 3-in-1 Universal Two-Way Radio Cover
- HYS Baofeng Walkie Talkie Silica Gel Cover
- Luiton Universal Two-Way Radio Case
Another common accessory for GMRS type two-way radios are the antennas. These antennas help in extending the range of your two-way radio devices. In addition to the popular Nagoya antennas, you can consider the following options for antennas:
- Authentic Nagoya NA-771 VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna
- Browning BR-450 UHF Land Mobile Base Antenna
- NSKI Dual Band Antenna
Best Walkie-Talkies for kids
In addition to the serious two-way radios for adults, two-way radios are also a popular outdoor item to get for kids. They can not only use during camping or backpacking, a walkie-talkie set can allow your kid to stay in touch with you or his/her friends. With so many durable kid-friendly options available, you can pick one which fits your kid’s personality and preference. Some of the best walkie-talkies for kids are listed below:
- Little Pretender Walkie Talkies: Best-selling, three-channel walkie-talkies with authentic spy looks. Advertised range of 2 miles, the functional range is about 1 mile. Feature a bright LCD display, call-alert function, and even a built-in flashlight. Come with one belt-clip per radio.
- Kidzlane Durable Walkie Talkies: Hugely popular kid walkie-talkies. Compact, lightweight and extremely durable. Kidzlane walkie-talkies feature 3 separate channel operations and can work over a range of 1 mile (advertised range is 2 miles).
- Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkies: Most authentic, commercial looking walkie-talkies, designed for kids and teenagers. 22-channel FRS walkie-talkies with an LCD display and support for VOX (hands-free) operation. Come with one belt-clip per radio.
Final thoughts on the best two-way radios to buy
In this article, we looked at some of the best two-way radios for hunting and survival available in the market. These devices provide an cost-effective mechanism for communication in the wilderness, where mobile network signals are not that prevalent. We also looked at how two-way radios work and also at the factors to consider while picking the best two-way radios or walkie talkies for your wilderness adventure.
We hope that this article would help you in picking the best two -way radio or walkie talkie for your next outdoor adventure. Do let us know your feedback and if you would want us to consider anything else. Happy wilderness exploration!!
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Image credits: Amazon.com
The baofeng bf9 radio is NOT an frs/gmrs radio. It will operate in that area, but if you interfere with licensed users, you will likely be found and fines can range up to $10000 per occurance. It is way easier to get licensed ( gmrs license is $65 for ten years and covers you and your immediate family). Or a ham radio license costs $15 to take a simple 35 question test. You can find the questions and answers online. Plus you will learn about radio and why and how it works ( and why the claims of 35 miles range and ‘privacy codes’ are just marketing ginmicks
Thank you for sharing this useful information! We already highlighted the need of Licenses for GMRS radios in our article and would add more details mentioned here.