Portable Radio Go Kit - February 2025

[pb_lonny]

As a long-time radio enthusiast, I’ve experimented with numerous ways to organize and transport my gear. Over the years, I’ve used everything from camera bags to toolboxes, but this latest iteration of my Portable Radio Go Kit is one of the most refined yet. Designed for both emergency communications and field monitoring and operations, this setup keeps my essential radios and accessories well-protected and ready for action. The key idea was to have a way to quickly go from storage to use.

The Case
At the heart of the kit is a rugged, waterproof hard case, which provides excellent durability and protection for my equipment. It features egg-crate foam lining in the lid for additional cushioning and a customized internal mounting system to securely hold my radios. This layout ensures that everything stays in place during transport while remaining easily accessible when needed.​

Primary Radios​

1. Baofeng UV-5RM (Black)
   The UV-5RM remains a staple in my collection due to its versatility, affordability, and ease of programming. This dual-band radio covers VHF and UHF, making it ideal for monitoring local amateur repeaters and general communications.
2. Baofeng UV-17R (Orange)
   This ruggedized variant offers additional water resistance, making it a great companion for outdoor and emergency situations. The large screen and enhanced design improve usability, while its dual-band capability ensures compatibility with a wide range of frequencies.

Accessories and Additions​

• Antennas: The stock antennas are stored under the fold up stand for the radios. I also have room for other aerials as I acquire them.
• Programming Cable & Software: Ensuring I can reprogram the radios in the field if necessary.
• Speaker Mic and Headsets: This allow for hands free operation and improved operation in noisy environments.
• Multi-Tool & Screwdrivers: Useful for quick repairs and modifications.
• Documentation: Printed user manuals and frequency lists for quick reference.

Final Thoughts
This iteration of my go kit strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The hard case provides protection against rough handling, while the wooden mounting system ensures everything stays organized. Whether I’m heading out for an radio field day or potable operations or a casual day of radio monitoring, this kit is always ready to go.​

https://vk7aal.blogspot.com/2025/02/portable-radio-go-kit-february-2025.html

 

[BinaryMode]

Not too bad I guess, but I'd replace the wood with 3D printed custom replacements or use aluminum stock. But that's a more involved and technical process. If wood I'd countersink the holes for the fasteners and plug those with doll rod. Then sand and paint or wood stain.


Back in circa 1997 when I was 17 I made a case like that. It was a gun carrying case that I stuck a RadioShack Pro-2042 and battery inside. Then I drilled a small hole out the back for the antenna. It came with me on family vacation. Accompanying me was my C or D cell battery powered Super Nintendo that I used with the small portable TV. LOL! To this day my little cousin thought that was bad azz and still remembers it. I almost forgot. Kids these days have that stuff built-into the car. I made it first! Hand made! LOL

 

[pb_lonny]

Thanks. I plan on painting it, once I am 100% happy with it and the layout.

 

[PDXh0b0]

I'd add a quansheng uv-k6 😉 you could add the mods or add a ham-it-up to listen to hf

 

[pb_lonny]

I had a UV-k6 in the past, I was not a massive fan but they might be better now. Some of the mods were cool.

 

[sloop]

Nice setup..but you need accessory battery packs (AA) for the radios. Also having used baofengs I would want something more dependable, especially concerning water resistance. You want something that's rated to be in 3 feet of water for 30 minutes and still work (VX6R example). Yes, I know they are cheap enough to replace easily, but you do get what you pay for. Buy 3 of the U 17TH and you could have bought a VX6R (for example), which is a much better radio.

 

[pb_lonny]

An update - Mk2

Portable Radio Go Kit MK2 - March 2025

I am an amateur radio operator (HAM) from Launceston Tasmania - VK7AAL. I am also a keen software developer, in both JustBasic and Python.

vk7aal.blogspot.com

 

[KK4JUG]

Where did you hide the coffee pot? That may actually be more important for some of us than for others.