"What communications do you use on the trails?" A question often asked in Jeep Clubs on social media. Well in my opinion you may want to research who you are going off-roading/wheeling with, Jeep Clubs or Off Road Groups (See More).
I found myself asking the same questions with a very quick response from Jeep Club's to get a CB along with all the wonderful recommendations and opinions everyone had to offer. So I followed suite and installed a Cobra 75 Something, purchasing the best wiring, antenna, quick disconnect blah blah blah. Got the CB and antenna tuned and was able to reach 1 mile over an open area testing with one of my buddies. I was so excited to be able to communicate with everyone.
Well then when I went and hit the trails I found reception to be poor, I started to blame my own equipment and was very disappointed [buyer’s remorse] at my installation. Spent some time troubleshooting and testing to find out it wasn't my equipment buy others who installed poorly or had cheap equipment. Years went on dealing with static, “can everyone hear me", and messing with the squelch.
Moving on to my new endeavors I found a whole new old species of communications "Rugged Radios" or HAM Radio's in general. Apparently the western United States off-road groups have been using Ham for some time, so my research began. I found out that with cheaper smaller hand held device I was able to get far greater distance over a CB setup. I began my move here within Jeep Adventours to start the HAM Radio conversion and from some of our testing Base unit to handheld I was able to reach 4 miles with no static. This was what I was looking for!!! I continued my research and found study guides and prep tests to be a certified legal operator.
For far less money on equipment and time for installation you have 5x better form of communication. Below are some links to YouTube Videos, Study Guides and Testing locations.
YouTube Channels to Watch
Complete Guide to Off Road Communications! CBRS FRS MURS GMRS HAM RACE BUSINESS Radios
How to get a Ham Operator License
- Read the Study guide on the link below
- Install HAM PREP TEST on your phone. Take the test until you reach 100%
- Sign up for a test
How to take atvanage of Rugged Radio Pricing
- Call Rugged Radio and Ask for Lacey
- Mention you are a member of Jeep Adventours
Check Used Frequencies in areas
https://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/