Field programmable uhf for a newbie

[longderunner]

Hello all, I firstly apologize for any ignorance I have, this is quite new territory for me.

Im looking for a field programmable motorola UHF radio (for headset, 2-pin) for scenario paintball/airsoft uses. Its going to be used primarily on the FRS frequencies, but I need a UHF unit for clarity/wattage/range for emergency and in-game purposes.

I know that I need the 400-470 band, 12.5/25 stepping? and CTSS so Im fully compatible, and I need to be able to select frequency without using a computer and software.

Im just wondering what my options are, without breaking the bank, obviously this is going to be a used model. Ive seen the gp68 and gp380 (which i believe isnt field programmable) on ebay from those sketchy sellers, and im not too afraid of going with them, but I definitely want to be better informed. Any help would be really appreciated!!!

 

[KG4INW]

First of all, it would be illegal to use any radio that was not specifically made for FRS use. You're limited to 1/2 W and a fixed antenna, among other strict stipulations. The JT1000 is an excellent Front Panel Programmable radio made by /\/\ (in VHF and UHF) but you're still not allowed to use them on FRS.

Have you considered getting a GMRS license? It'll give you more flexibility in radio options and be legal.

 

[longderunner]

Oh wow, Im sorry I wasnt even aware that it was illegal, as basically everyone I have talked to does it. In that case the GMRS would be my option, but luckily does not change the radio choice.

The jt1000 looks great, and I dont mean to scrape the bucket but is there anything else thats a bit cheaper than that? I dont need any complicated features, just good power, field programmability, the UHF range, CTSS and a 12.5/25 stepping. Which is why the gp68 looked decent, but at the proices I see them for something seems off, one of those "too good to be true things."

 

[KG4INW]

Well, I don't know much about the GP68 (especially the ones from Hong Kong) but there are several threads here that should provide you with a lot of good info. Just search the forum and see what turns up.

As for other recommendations, the GP2000 would also fit the bill but once again, I don't know much about them. Any other Motorola FPP capable handhelds will definitely not be cheap (e.g. XTS2500 or XTS5000).

 

[cmdrwill]

Actually you can not use any radio on GRMS that has front panel programability.

§ 95.645 Control accessibility.
(a) No control, switch or other type
of adjustment which, when manipulated,
can result in a violation of the
rules shall be accessible from the
transmitter operating panel or from
exterior of the transmitter enclosure.

 

[gewecke]

Hello all, I firstly apologize for any ignorance I have, this is quite new territory for me.

Im looking for a field programmable motorola UHF radio (for headset, 2-pin) for scenario paintball/airsoft uses. Its going to be used primarily on the FRS frequencies, but I need a UHF unit for clarity/wattage/range for emergency and in-game purposes.

I know that I need the 400-470 band, 12.5/25 stepping? and CTSS so Im fully compatible, and I need to be able to select frequency without using a computer and software.

Im just wondering what my options are, without breaking the bank, obviously this is going to be a used model. Ive seen the gp68 and gp380 (which i believe isnt field programmable) on ebay from those sketchy sellers, and im not too afraid of going with them, but I definitely want to be better informed. Any help would be really appreciated!!!

This will suit your needs AND be legal.

Motorola T 7200 gmrs/frs 2 watt simplex or repeater capable.

n9zas

 

[KG4INW]

Actually you can not use any radio on GRMS that has front panel programability.

§ 95.645 Control accessibility.
(a) No control, switch or other type
of adjustment which, when manipulated,
can result in a violation of the
rules shall be accessible from the
transmitter operating panel or from
exterior of the transmitter enclosure.

Ah, thanks for clarifying.