California backcountry
While I understand your desires, some of the requirements are contradictory. In order to be able to pick up 'anything' you might receive, I'd suggest a digital scanner. That is even more important since many fed agencies are the first to go digital.
But the problem with digital scanners is that they are comparatively battery hogs. I run an analog scanner and carry 3 sets of fully charged batteries with me, and they're all drained after an extended weekend. A means to recharge them, such as a solar cell, could be as much weight to carry as another set of batteries or two. How long (in days) are your outings?
Antennas are another issue. When hiking or backpacking, you are probably better off with the stock antenna that comes with the scanner. If you are camped, then you might be able to put up something more grand; but I find it better to just find a 'high spot' to camp. Elevation will get you better signal reception anyway.
When it comes to specific scanners; I'd recommend the PSR-500 digital or PSR-300 analog. But I will admit that the Unidens are smaller. You'll have to decide which tradeoffs work for you. Good luck.
I venture in to the backcountry of California myself, and I always have a scanner or two with me. My focus is usually listening to agencies like BLM, Cal Fire, USFS, National Parks, etc. I do also have DOJ, DEA and other similar agencies programmed; but don't recall hearing any traffic on them when not near a metro area. When I hear traffic on FRS or the like; it is usually a parent and a child playing nearby.
While I understand your desires, some of the requirements are contradictory. In order to be able to pick up 'anything' you might receive, I'd suggest a digital scanner. That is even more important since many fed agencies are the first to go digital.
But the problem with digital scanners is that they are comparatively battery hogs. I run an analog scanner and carry 3 sets of fully charged batteries with me, and they're all drained after an extended weekend. A means to recharge them, such as a solar cell, could be as much weight to carry as another set of batteries or two. How long (in days) are your outings?
Antennas are another issue. When hiking or backpacking, you are probably better off with the stock antenna that comes with the scanner. If you are camped, then you might be able to put up something more grand; but I find it better to just find a 'high spot' to camp. Elevation will get you better signal reception anyway.
When it comes to specific scanners; I'd recommend the PSR-500 digital or PSR-300 analog. But I will admit that the Unidens are smaller. You'll have to decide which tradeoffs work for you. Good luck.
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