what a HAM

pistolclass · 02-23-2018, 08:44 PM

Ok so I'm thinking of getting into HAM radio. Anyone here have any experience with HAM radios? Of course I'm thinking of getting a Chinese Baofeng either 5 watt or 8 watt. I know very little about them so I'm watching a youtube vid to teach me to get my Technician License.

ChondaChondaChonda · 02-23-2018, 09:36 PM

The little BaoFengs are ok. I have one that I use to listen in on the local repeaters. I'm not that active on it, so it has lasted a while.

One of my buddies has bought several and recently told me that he is not buying them anymore as they keep blowing outputs on the transmitter side.

They are a great way to get started, but not up to the quality of the Kenwoods, ICOM's and Yaesu radios yet.

Good luck with your technician test. There are some great online practice test sites out there!

pistolclass · 02-23-2018, 10:08 PM

started to read kb6nu study guide. Holy smokes I have a bunch to learn. Baofeng just released the 8 watt. seems decent for $60, The 5 watts are $25. The tech test is $15. In true chinabike fashion, I'm hoping to be under $100. A Kenwood is like $400. If I like it I will spring for the premium stuff.

02-23-2018, 08:44 PM	#1
pistolclass Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: connecticut Posts: 978	what a HAM Ok so I'm thinking of getting into HAM radio. Anyone here have any experience with HAM radios? Of course I'm thinking of getting a Chinese Baofeng either 5 watt or 8 watt. I know very little about them so I'm watching a youtube vid to teach me to get my Technician License.
	0

02-23-2018, 09:36 PM	#2
ChondaChondaChonda Join Date: Oct 2016 Posts: 547	The little BaoFengs are ok. I have one that I use to listen in on the local repeaters. I'm not that active on it, so it has lasted a while. One of my buddies has bought several and recently told me that he is not buying them anymore as they keep blowing outputs on the transmitter side. They are a great way to get started, but not up to the quality of the Kenwoods, ICOM's and Yaesu radios yet. Good luck with your technician test. There are some great online practice test sites out there!
	0

02-23-2018, 10:08 PM	#3
pistolclass Join Date: Oct 2015 Location: connecticut Posts: 978	started to read kb6nu study guide. Holy smokes I have a bunch to learn. Baofeng just released the 8 watt. seems decent for $60, The 5 watts are $25. The tech test is $15. In true chinabike fashion, I'm hoping to be under $100. A Kenwood is like $400. If I like it I will spring for the premium stuff.
	1