handheld cbs

[ItsyBitsy]

I'm looking for a medium quality & price handheld CB...well, really I'd like a good quality one but I'm on a budget......
I'm probably very obviously new to all of this....I'm working my way up to amateur radio and I figure a CB is a good way to start. I have a base station that is suitable but I want a slightly better quality handheld....
any suggestions would be very welcome

 

[Rt169Radio]

I think Cobra and Midland are the only ones that sell handheld CB radios.

 

[kb2vxa]

Uh oh, you're off to the wrong start even before you start. I cut my teeth on CB BUT back then CB was a whole different world, it's changed so much and for the worse... when it comes to how I could write a book but I'll spare you the pain. As far as the hand held is concerned I've used a couple and you'll be badly disappointed with barely a mile to a base station range, far less to a mobile and less than nothing to another hand held.

While not nearly as bad the same problem exists with a VHF/UHF HT thanks to an antenna barely a step above a dummy load. That's fine for talking around a hamfest, sporting event or whatever because that's exactly what they're made for. Sure, they'll go farther on a mobile or base antenna but still that's about the worst "first rig" you can get. Most hams start with mobile VHF/UHF FM transceivers you can use mobile AND base with a DC power supply but we don't stop there with a whole radio spectrum and a fistful of modes to play with.

One disaster at a time my old boss used to say, find a local ham club, drop by and introduce yourself. You'll get far better results from an "eyeball QSO" than anything here and once the bug (maybe a Vibroplex) bites you have a whole slew of "elmers" to help you along.

Oh, take note of those strange things in quotes and take them to a club meeting just for fun and the rest of you PUT A SOCK IN IT! (;->)

 

[jaspence]

Handheld CB

I agree with KB2VXA's opinion. A Technician license is easy to get since no code came into being, and there are now dualband handhelds (I know they are from China, but what isn't) that start around $60.00. CB was fun back in the 50's, but it is AM and prone to interference, and the band gives little coverage, even if you use an illegal amp. With repeaters, links, and the internet, amateur radio has so much more to offer. I take part in a net on Sunday nights on 2 meters, and we have check ins from Hawaii and several other states. Net control is usually in CT.

 

[joetnymedic]

I'll tell you what (and Rt 169 this is open to you too as you're semi local and can even come get it) I have 4 that's right 4 hand held CB's sitting in their boxes in the hutch in my kitchen. Got them 4 years ago for a project that never happened. You pay for shipping and I'll send it to you simple as that. Over and done with. 169 same goes to you or if you want I'm in West Haven. You let me know. I have a GE, Midland, Cobra and I forgot what the other one was most likely a GE also if I remember correct. They have all the parts too. That's it

 

[jtech48]

I'll tell you what (and Rt 169 this is open to you too as you're semi local and can even come get it) I have 4 that's right 4 hand held CB's sitting in their boxes in the hutch in my kitchen. Got them 4 years ago for a project that never happened. You pay for shipping and I'll send it to you simple as that. Over and done with. 169 same goes to you or if you want I'm in West Haven. You let me know. I have a GE, Midland, Cobra and I forgot what the other one was most likely a GE also if I remember correct. They have all the parts too. That's it

Now thats an offer, if i wasnt addicted to HT's I wouldnt hesitate to take that offer just to have it

 

[jurrd87]

Pm sent

Sent from my DROID BIONIC using my fingers

 

[John599nj]

Save your money buy yourself a dual band 2meter/440 handy talkie.
The Wouxon radios are about 100.00 and take your time learning how to program and listen to repeaters and how people operate. Then after you get your tech license you can operate.