I'd like to know if I should have any preference between Baofengradio and Baofengtech if I decide to go Baofeng.  As I understand it, the hardware is made by the same manufacturer, but the firmware differs between the two.  I've gotten some recommendations to go with tech rather than radio over on Reddit, so I thought I'd check with you guys.  

What I'm looking for is my inexpensive (preferably not more than $60ish) gateway drug radio to fidget with and learn from as I work towards a license.  I know not to transmit before getting a license, but I used to listen to CB traffic when I was a kid and would like to do some lurking around and listening again, maybe sitting in on nets to get an understanding of how things work.  Also, I live near an airport and am interested in their chatter.  Of course, I want NOAA.

Eventually, I'd like to be able to chatter with my kids on the other side of the state, which I don't expect my starter radio to accomplish.  I'll get to that in time.

I know the generally popular entry-level model is the Baofeng UV-5RM and I've been looking at the 10W. I've been recommended a couple of other models from Baofengtech like the BF-F8HP-PRO, but I don't know enough yet to know what makes them better or worse for my use case than the UV-5RM and they are at a higher price point (I could get two 5RMs for about the same price as the other models).  

Also, I have the The Baofeng Radio Bible: The Comprehensive and Easy-to-Follow Guerrilla's Guide to Become a Pro with Your Baofeng Radio in No Time and Stay Connected When It Matters Most book, so I have some level of comfort within the Baofeng ecosystem.  Are there other brands that have readily available publications about how to use specifically their models?

So, 

1. If getting a Baofeng, Baofengradio or Baofengtech?
2. UV-5RM, BF-F8HP-PRO, or a different model?
2. If not Baofeng, what?

Quote from: EBuff75 on September 30, 2026, 09:37:04 PMDay 30 - Donate to others in need

Sometimes preparedness is helping others out, because we know that someday we might be the ones that need that help.

Truer words were never spoken.  I also think it ties into the idea that community - before, during and after an emergency - may be the most important prep of all.

I expect to finally be in a position to put time to this soon and I really, really appreciate this post.  

I have a question about call signs.  I assume I would get a call sign upon passing the Technician test, but I also see that call signs vary based on level attained for the Sequential Call Sign System.  Do you get a whole new call sign each time you advance to a more advanced license?  

Quote from: ZombieDeath on September 23, 2026, 09:59:11 PMAs I get older, I've realized I want to carry less weight. Since I already carry my CCW, spare mags, two knives, a Zippo with a screwdriver insert, a mini Bic, a card wallet, and a prybar, I've decided to stop keeping those redundant items in my bugout bag. Between what I carry on my person and the dedicated trauma/GSW kit I keep in my vehicle, my old 55lb bag has become unnecessary.

I've officially retired the "big BOB" in favor of a smaller, more streamlined "baby BOB." Here is the scaled-down loadout I've transitioned to:

*  Sewing kit
*  Small repair kit (duct tape, hose clamps, zip ties, and a small case with assorted screws/nails)
*  Fire kit
*  Compass and signal mirror
*  Extra socks
*  Rain poncho
*  Small umbrella
*  Power brick
*  Two 55-gallon trash bags
*  50 rounds of 9mm
I haven't weighed this new setup yet, but it's likely around 10 lbs. I believe it covers the essentials for a SHTF bug-out scenario. This "baby BOB" actually used to be my everyday carry (EDC) bag, which I had previously stopped using.

Honestly it seems like your missing some of the 10Cs of survival. Not saying that is the gospel. Just seems things are missing from this BOB. But also not sure what your use case is. So I'm not sure comparing your list to a master list of 10C or similar list would do you any good. 

A use case and complete kit list - might help us better evaluate your kit and make suggestions. 

For one I would ditch the hose clamps. And look into a material that is more universal and could provide more uses. Like simple heavy wire and/or cordage. You can make actual hose clamps with wire. It's very simple. And wire has a thousand more uses than hose clamps. 

It seems like a lot of your preps are heavy on store bought. Versus skill and universal materials you can do many things with. 

Water treatment comes to mind. As do a few other things that you might benefit from. But again we need a use case - your planned bugout and area of travel. With a basic risk assessment including weather. 

I'm not sure you've really thought out what you might face, what gear might best accomplish that, or what skills you might consider adding. That can greatly multiply your capabilities and lesson the amount of separate things you need to carry. 

Quote from: MacWa77ace on September 25, 2026, 09:14:34 AM@Moab No I've always referred to it as GBHB.

I have never seen that. Lol.

That's a wrap!  I know that this was mostly me posting here, but I'm sure that there were other people out there doing stuff this month.  I know that I've seen postings in other areas about BOBs, vehicle preparedness, and more.  Feel free to claim all that as part of Preparedness Month if you want and post it here.  

Now we've all got an entire month to get ready for Halloween!  

Day 30 - Donate to others in need

I get all sorts of charity appeals which I just pile up until I have a chance to go through them.  Well, I did that tonight, picking out a half-dozen or so from the pile and making various donations to them.  Most of them were local organizations that provide food, housing, or other assistance to those in need. 

Sometimes preparedness is helping others out, because we know that someday we might be the ones that need that help.

Quote from: MacWa77ace on September 24, 2026, 11:45:10 AM@jdavidboyd the ones that screw tighten can be used as attachment hardware to connect small diameter items like long sticks to make a lean to. Reinforce a cracked tool handle or rifle stock. 

Ah, that makes perfect sense.  Great idea, and I apologize for ever thinking it was strange.

Houston, CAPCOM, we have reestablished contact with the lander.

Day 29 - Shopping for guest room supplies and winter vehicle bag food

I went shopping tonight and picked up a few items for my guest room toiletries stash, so it should be all set now.  

I also made a list of food items to go in my winter emergency bags that I pack for each vehicle.  Basically, a bunch of stuff that won't mind being in a cold car, like peanut butter, trail mix, energy bars, etc.  There are a couple more things that I'd like to add, but I got most of it tonight. Other than the food, the bags are already packed with spare clothes, gloves, hat, blanket, canned heat, lighters, etc.  They won't go into the vehicles just yet, but I usually add them in late October or early November, so I'm not that far off.