Two problems with the UV-5R...

[mirayge]

that can be remedied by using it as an actual ham/bussiness radio and staying away from cell phone towers. Problem one is that it doesn't handle closely spaced frequencies well, such as the real GMRS repeater output channels and the first seven FRS channels. On mine any signal on FRS 1 would come in on GMRS 1, and so on up to 7. You may know of these as 15 through 22 although the real numbering stops at 14 on an frs radio and real GMRS should have 1 through 8. Problem two is that the lower cell phone frequencies desensitize the reciever. For example, I work a half mile from my at&t tower. I can NOT go up high and outside to increase my range. It is like you threw a wet blanket over a fire. Woooshhh, no reception even with the squelch open. I even tested by driving another route home that would take me under the tower. UHF popped and opened all the time until I was blocks away. On the other hand, I can receive many HAM repeaters at ground level.

 

[WB4CS]

Well, the issue of it not receiving GMRS/FRS channels well can be remedied by not using it on the FRS/GMRS channels since it's not legal (Part 95 approved) for use on the FRS/GMRS channels. The radio is approved for ham radio bands and Part 90 (commercial/public safety) bands.

Also, don't expect a $30 radio to perform like an expensive Motorola. The Baofang radios are pretty much toys or disposable ham radios.

 

[mirayge]

Correct, I use mine to scan frs, murs, and the ham repeaters. The family is using frs 6 around the neighborhood, so I usually carry a legal radio to answer back on. That was my point. If someone thinks they are going to be a prepper and set up an all in one radio they may be disappointed. Depending on how strong the cellular background noise is, you may be heard but not know it. Plus, the frequency spacing is so tight, you can't tell if someone is on an frs or gmrs repeater output. You may be answering on the wrong channel.