SHTFPreparedness may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
If the grid fails, it will take our ability to communicate with it. Everyone outside walking distance will fade to memories if we can no longer reach out. The convenience of simply picking up a phone to communicate will suddenly vanish. This HAM radio guide for preppers will re-open communication channels around the block and around the world.
HAM radio is one of the few forms of emergency communication for information exchange across vast distances. From simple verbal communication to the exchange of text to the sharing of images, HAM radio can do it all. You just need to know the best type of radio to use especially when the cell phones are turned off and the televisions are silent. Overall, the ability to share information and intelligence could mean the difference between comfort and concern when you are no longer in touch with the rest of the world.
How Will HAM Radio Be Used When SHTF?
Information exchange is vital to our success during SHTF. Whether it’s knowing what’s happening over the next hill or across the country, information provides a complete picture of the world.
Undeniably, CB radios and walkie-talkies are ok for talking across your property or your town, but that’s the extent of their capabilities. In most cases, especially for “blister-pack” walkie-talkies, their range is severely overstated. In contrast, HAM radios, with their increased wattage, improved antennas, and additional frequencies, can reach the edge of the horizon and beyond.
HAM radio allows you to communicate over various distances:
- Line of sight distances – approximately 0-60 miles depending on many factors
- UHF/VHF, also called 2-meter/75-centimeter, also called 144 MHz/440 MHz
- These frequencies often use repeaters to extend their range by receiving a signal and then repeating the signal on separate frequency
- NVIS – approximately 500 miles using specialized antennas
- HF 6- to 160-meters–some bands are better suited for NVIS than others
- Around the country and the world
- HF bands 6- to 160-meters
HAM Radio Modes
First, when thinking HAM, we often associate it to only talking into a microphone. There is value in verbal communication. From warning signals at checkpoints to welfare checks with neighbors, when the SHTF there will be times when sending a runner is too slow or impossible. Without a doubt, HAM wins every time.
Additionally, HAM radios, with the proper equipment, can also trade text messages during SHTF. The advantage of these protocols is they employ error correction. This increases the probability that your message gets through accurately. Unlike voice that can be subject to interpretation, text messages are much easier to understand.
Finally, there are more fringe aspects of HAM radio related to intelligence gathering. Again, with the right equipment, you can not only trade text but images. You can also download NOAA weather maps and satellite imagery. During a grid-down event, what would you give to see tomorrow’s weather? How about tracking down the source of a local broadcast? These are all a part of HAM radio.
HAM Radio Licensing Requirements
Unlike FRS or MURS, HAM radio requires a license. Technically GMRS requires a license, but it’s an easy pay-to-play license.
You must have a HAM radio license to broadcast. If you want to talk, you need to be licensed. You can have all the equipment in the world to listen. But to key up, you need your ticket. One caveat to the licenses. During an emergency, you don’t need one. However, HAM radios have a learning curve, so it’s best to get licensed and practice now before you need these skills.
If you can read and memorize a few basic concepts, then the only thing between you and a HAM license is a few hours of studying. One other note, the requirement to know morse code was removed many years ago.
Technician License
The entry-level HAM ticket is a technician license. At this level, operators may use most “line of sight” frequencies. This includes the 2-meter and 75-centimeter bands. The one high-frequency band where access is granted is the 6-meter band. While this band isn’t too popular, it will grant you long distant comms.
The 2m and 75cm are used for short distances. Often you will find dual-band radios that cover both frequencies. We will get into this in a bit.
General License
The general HAM license is the sweet spot for preppers. With a general license, you get access to most of the amateur-allowed HF spectrum. These frequencies include 10m up to 160m (and a few others).
These frequencies garner you the ability to work long distances and around the world. With the right equipment (radio, antenna, etc.) the communication world is your oyster. Heat up the clouds and prepare to share information!
Extra License
The extra license opens up a few additional radio frequencies for the amateur operator. Once you get into HAM radio, you will need to decide if the additional studying is worth the bands.
radio frequencies
HAM Radio Testing and Resources
The great thing about studying for your HAM radio license is that it’s pretty easy. Each test (technician, general, and extra) comprises a round of multiple-choice questions. Even better, they give you the entire question pool to study!
For the technician and general tests, there are 35 questions and you need to get 26 or more correct to pass. The test pools for each are 423 and 454 questions, respectively. If you have the mind to, you can memorize them.
If memorization isn’t your thing, there are several guides, websites, and applications that can help you study.
First, you can download them directly from the source. The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) hosts the test for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). They have links to download the question pools directly.
If you prefer to read your study materials or listen to audiobooks, there are too many books to count.
- Team, Ham Radio (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 308 Pages - 12/06/2019 (Publication Date) - Newstone Publishing (Publisher)
- Audible Audiobook
- Dan Romanchik (Author) - Dan Romanchik KB6NU (Narrator)
- English (Publication Language)
- 10/24/2019 (Publication Date) - Dan Romanchik KB6NU (Publisher)
Next, there are several websites that, for a small fee, offer online study resources and sample exams.
https://www.hamradiolicenseexam.com/
As you would expect, there are also study apps for your phone. Just hit the Apple or Google stores for the one that fits your style of learning.
Finally, local HAM radio clubs often offer “Technician\General in a weekend” where you dedicate a few days to learning and you test at the end of the event. I’ve always heard great things about these classes, and know several people that have passed with flying colors after only these few days of prep.
Types of Ham Radios
We differentiate radio systems by the frequencies they cover, their form factor (size), and the additional features they have. Here are some of the most common types of HAM radio systems.
Handi-Talkies
Handi-talkies can also be called walkie-talkies by non-HAMs. A handi-talkie is best classified as some of the smallest emergency radios you can purchase.
As their name suggests, these radios are sized to be portable and fit nicely in your hand. Most are low-powered (2-10 watts) and support the UHF and VHF bands. This means that you are limited to line of sight. In reality, these reach out to a maximum of 30 miles if the conditions are perfect.
One advantage of HAM’s handi-talkies over blister pack walkie-talkies is that the antennas are exchangeable. Simply put, the bigger the antenna, the better your ability to transmit and receive. Most short antennas will get you out a few miles. Replace this with a ¼ wave or ½ wave antenna and you will achieve the max your radio offers.
Most handi-talkies are fairly limited in their functionality. As the price goes up, you can get features such as digital modes.
Mobile
Mobile radios are the next step up in size and functionality. Most mobile radios are well tasked to fit in a vehicle or as a mini base station. The additional size allows the radios to push a little more power. Many mobiles can push 50 or more watts.
As they are designed to fit into a vehicle, they don’t come with a power supply and rarely come with an antenna. You will need to provide a 12-volt source. This can be a battery or a dedicated power supply (if you are using it as a base station).
There are a myriad of antennas. You simply need to mate up the connector the radio requires with your antenna.
Mobile radios usually cover at least 2-meter or 75-centimeter, often both. There are several on the market that provide HF frequencies as well. Be prepared to pay for these radios, though. Finally, there are several that you can configure as repeaters.
Base Stations
Base stations are where you gain the ability to reach out and touch someone.
Larger size, more power, and better electronics provide functionality that you can’t achieve in the smaller radios. Many output 100 watts and cover many of the high-frequency bands. But that’s just the beginning.
With the additional size, base stations can dedicate space to advanced displays and digital signal processors. The processors filter out transmission noise and bring out even the faintest of signals.
A base station can be a hefty investment. But it doesn’t stop there. When you buy the transceiver, you are only getting the radio. You will also need to purchase a power supply, antenna, antenna tuner, speakers. And you may wish to upgrade the microphone, add an amplifier. Don’t forget the computer so you can take advantage of all the cool digital modes!
Where to Buy a HAM Radio
If you are a beginner operator, I highly recommend only purchasing new radios or purchasing a used one only from an experienced and trusted source. Basically, radios are too expensive to risk getting one that requires repairs or has a spotty history.
Luckily, there are several brick-and-mortar as well as online shops that carry a wide variety of new radios.
Home Radio Outlet (HRO)
Ham Radio Outlet is one of the largest HAM-specific online retailers with a physical presence. Indeed, with stores from the west coast to the east coast, there is bound to be one in your area. If not, check out their online store.
Amazon
The ubiquitous Amazon.com has a wide variety of major brands from ICOM to Yeasu, to AnyTone. In fact, when the Baofeng craze hit the prepper community, you could buy them at Amazon for a price affordable by any prepper.
- QYT Tri-Band Mobile Radio, Dual Watch, Dual Standby, Best Choice For New Ham User, Radio Size: 3.85*1.37*4.64In Weight: 0.9lb
- FCC Part Certified and comply with Part 15B + Part 97
- 【Tri-Band】2m/1.25m/70cm
- 【Function】CTCSS/DCS/5Tone/2Tone, Comes with 2 Tone,5 Tone, DTMF functions, RF Output Power: 25W/20W (VHF/UHF)
- 【Package】QTY KT-8900R Mobile Radio, Microphone, Car Power Cable, Fuse, Mounting Bracket, Screw Sets, User Manual
- If you are not satisfied with it in 1 month. Please feel free to Contact with us if you have any query. We will give you prompt reply and good after service
- ☛AnyTone AT-778UV Mobile Radio is complied with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations. complies with Part 15B and Part 97 of FCC rule, FCC ID is T4K-778UV. Frequency Range: VHF:136-174MHz UHF:400-490MHz
- ☛25W/15W/5W DualBand VHF/UHF Mobile Radio Transceiver! 180 degree rotatable TFT LCD displayFull alloy body for heat radiation. It is with VOX Function too.
- ☛Narrow Band compliant,Lighted Keypad mic, Built-in Speakers in both Radio & Mic,Built-In cooling Fan,DC power cable with fuse holder & More!!Single call, group call, selective call and emergency call are all available.
- ☛ Please download the Programming Software from support in AnyTone website.You can find the AnyTone website address in the user's manual.
- 2.5mm 1 pin plug, Listen/receive(not transmit) Walkie Talkie Covert Acoustic A ire Tube earpiece.
- With coiled PU cable for retractable use. The earpiece normal length Approx 65cm(25.6in) ,Extend length approximate :130cm(51.2in)
- Open Ear Insert Earmolds are designed for use on two-way radio acoustic tube type surveillance earpieces. Great for use in crowded or loud environments.
- Works with standard, HYT, Yaesu, Alinco, Motorola and Adi transceivers and also fits radio speaker mics,and similar devices with 2.5mm connector.
- Excellent for use in police, military, nightclubs, bars, paintball, security, restaurants, hotels, bouncer, warehouses, and noisy environments.Talk and listen without holding the radio.
HAM Radio Flea Markets
Next, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention HAM flea markets. On one hand, these are events are a wonder to behold. On the other, they are paralyzing to the novice due to their enormity. I’ve never seen so many radios, accessories, and components in one place. Most of the gear is used. It is best to go with an expert who can help you assess anything you want to purchase.
HAM Clubs and Silent Keys
Finally, there are local clubs. Throughout my life, I’ve been the beneficiary of others’ generosity. I’ve also tried to share and give in return. Not only are HAM clubs some of the best places to learn, but everyone seems to have a spare accessory or two. Sometimes you can get the best values if club members know you are just starting out and looking to invest or upgrade.
When a HAM operator passes away, club members refer to them as a silent key. When an operator passes, their family can be eager to sell or pass along their gear to another enthusiast.
Recommended Prepper HAM Radios
Let’s look at some of the most popular HAM radios for preppers.
Baofeng UV Series
I firmly believe that the inexpensive Baofeng radios started the recent prepper communication drive. While they aren’t the most rugged radios or the easiest to program, they are inexpensive. Comparatively, you can buy 3 or 4, plus accessories, for the cost of one of the other radios in this list. For that price, they are disposable. They also have a huge following, which means there are lots of resources to learn from.
The Baofeng BF-F8HP is the third generation of this dual-band (2-meter and 75-centimeter) UV-5R.
- Upgrades from our Previous Generation UV-5R: Twice the Output Power (8 watts up from 4 watts output), New Hardened Durable Radio Shell, 30% Larger Battery, V-85 High Gain Antenna (Twice the Antenna Performance), USA Support + In-depth User Guide Included; A PC03 FTDI Programming Cable is Recommended for Easier PC Programming
- High / Med / Low Power Settings (8W, 4W, 1W); Frequency Range: VHF: 136-174 MHz(Rx/Tx). UHF: 400-520 MHz(Rx/Tx); Broad (Wide) / Narrowband (Narrow) Selectable
- The BF-F8HP was designed in the USA and because not everyone is a radio-expert we really wanted to focus on providing an easier user experience! That starts with the new in-depth manual that guides you through the capabilities and customization of the BF-F8HP. On top of that the BF-F8HP also includes exclusive concierge customer help and warranty support. This concierge service is only available on select BaoFeng models such as the BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and UV-5X3
- Kit Includes: BF-F8HP, 2100mAh Battery, V-85 Dual Band Antenna, CH-5 Charger, CH-5 110V Adapter, Earpiece Kit, Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, User Manual
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
When you purchase one, get a programming cable and a larger antenna.
The programming cable lets you quickly program this otherwise unwieldy radio.
- The PC03 is the recommended hassle free radio programming cable designed for use on the Kenwood K1 Jack standard commonly used on many two way radios including: Baofeng, BTECH, Kenwood, Retevis, TYT, pxton, Tidradio, Kenwood, Wouxun, Radioddity, along with several more brands.
- The PC03 is the genuine USB programming cable you want for easily connecting your radio to your computer. No Driver Issues - No old drivers needed - Plug and Play
- Unlike the common "clone" USB programming Cables available Amazon - These cables just work! You will still need need to download the programming software needed for your radio.
- Works with BaoFeng's Latest Radios: UV-5X3, BF-F8HP, and UV-82HP
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
An improved antenna will get everything possible out of this radio, including increased reception and transmission range.
- Certified Original Nagoya Antenna - with an exclusive manufacturing partnership with BTECH
- New Release - May Require a Rubber spacer (included) and has an extended antenna cover to protect your radio SMA male base from the elements
- This antenna is almost 16 inches long and is a must for outdoor and camping usage. This is a soft flexible antenna able to withstand more 'roughness' than a stock radio antenna, all while boosting the signal of your radio significantly!
- Compatible with all BTECH, and BaoFeng Radios - Ideal for UV-5R, BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, and SMA female connections
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
If you want some extra reach in a small package, invest in a Dual-Band J-Pole roll-up antenna.
Other Handi-Talkies
Upgrading from the Baofeng, there are several radios from Yeasu, ICom, and Kenwood. A great option is the Yeasu FT-65. This handi-talkie is also dual-band and 5 watts. It is more rugged with an IP54 rating.
- VHF/UHF Commercial Grade Dual Band Handheld Transceiver - Compact Design, Measuring W 2.1” x H 4.1” x D 1.2” (52.5 x 104.5 x 31 mm) - Rugged Construction; Meets IP54 Rating (Dust/Water protection) , MIL-810-C,D and E - One Watt Powerful Audio Output and Clear Audio from the Big Front Speaker - 5 Watts of Reliable RF Power within a Compact body
- Three Selectable TX Power settings (5 W (High)/2.5 W (Middle)/0.5 W (Low)) - Over 9 hours Operating time with Supplied 1,950 mAh Li-Ion Battery pack *1 - Optional High-capacity 2,500 mAh Li-Ion Battery Pack (SBR-26LI) provides over 11.5 hours of Extended Operating Time *1 - 3.5-Hour Rapid Charger (SBH-22) Included (Using SBR-25LI) - QRK (Quick Recall Key) : Four User Programmable Keys for Quick Access to Favorite Functions
- Large White LED Flashlight, Alarm and Quick Home Channel Access for Emergency Signaling - Versatile Scanning Capabilities : Programmed VFO Scan, Memory Scan, Priority Channel Scan, Weather Alert Scan - WX Channels with "Severe Weather" Alert (US Version) - VOX Operation with Optional VOX Earpiece Microphone (SSM-512B) - PC Programmable with Optional Programming Cable (SCU-35)
- Transceiver-to-Transceiver Cloning with Optional Cloning Cable (SCU-36) - FM Broadcast Receiver Equipped - ARTS (Automatic Range Transponder System) - DTMF Operation - CTCSS/DCS Operation
- Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) - Battery Saver Function - Automatic Power-Off (APO) Feature - Transmitter Time-Out-Timer (TOT) *1 (Tx) 6 sec. : (Rx)6sec. : (Standby) 48 sec Duty Cycle
The ICom IC-T70A has a similar set of features to the Yeasu, including dual-band, 5 watts, and the ability to store over 300 frequencies.
Mobile Radios
Moving up to mobile radios, you get more bang for the buck. The AnyTone AT-778UV is a dual-band transceiver. It can push 25 watts in a compact package.
- If you are not satisfied with it in 1 month. Please feel free to Contact with us if you have any query. We will give you prompt reply and good after service
- ☛AnyTone AT-778UV Mobile Radio is complied with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations. complies with Part 15B and Part 97 of FCC rule, FCC ID is T4K-778UV. Frequency Range: VHF:136-174MHz UHF:400-490MHz
- ☛25W/15W/5W DualBand VHF/UHF Mobile Radio Transceiver! 180 degree rotatable TFT LCD displayFull alloy body for heat radiation. It is with VOX Function too.
- ☛Narrow Band compliant,Lighted Keypad mic, Built-in Speakers in both Radio & Mic,Built-In cooling Fan,DC power cable with fuse holder & More!!Single call, group call, selective call and emergency call are all available.
- ☛ Please download the Programming Software from support in AnyTone website.You can find the AnyTone website address in the user's manual.
For a compact and rugged single band (144 MHz) radio, I recommend the Yeasu FT-2980R single-band transceiver. This radio sports the ability to push 80 watts at its maximum settings.
- Massive Heatsink guarantees 80 Watts of RF Power with No Cooling Fan Needed (Four selectable power output levels are provided: 80/30/10/5 Watts) - Loud 3 Watts of Audio Output for noisy environments - Large 6 Digit Backlit LCD ensure excellent visibility
- Excellent Receiver Performance - Alpha-Numeric Channel Display - 200 Memory Channels for serious users
- CTCSS and DCS Encode/Decode Built in - Versatile Scanning Capability - WX Channels with "Severe Weather" Alert
- Smart Search Operation - DTMF Direct Access Microphone Included - Wide/Narrow Deviation Selection - RF-Squelch
- Interactive Programming Menu - Supply Voltage Display - 4-level Display Dimmer - Dual Watch FT
For the complete mobile solution, there is the Yeasu FT-891. This mobile package covers 6-meters to 160-meters and can transmit with 100 watts of power.
- Stable 100 Watt Output!
- Compatible With ATAS-120A Automatic Tune Antenna!
- All Mode Operation - AM - FM- USB - LSB - CW
In contrast to the other radios here, the FT-891 has a detachable head (screen) that lets you mount the radio where convenient and mount the head where visible. While it may be true that this radio has the price tag of some base stations, it also has these capabilities in a much more portable package.
Beginner Base Station
Base stations represent a major investment in your HAM radio hobby. With that in mind, I’ll recommend a simple base station that is fully featured, but not overkill.
The ICom IC-718 is an all-band radio that covers 10-meters to 160-meters. Comparatively, it doesn’t have the digital signal processing features (e.g., noise reduction), or digital modes of more full-featured radios. It also does not have digital modes like its big brothers. Where it lacks in features, it gains in gains in simplicity.
In comparison to the experts, as a beginner HAM, you will benefit from the ease of use of the IC-718. Instead, as you journey farther down the path, you will learn more and benefit from the advanced features of other radios. Learn the basics now, invest in advanced tools later.
HAM Radio Training Opportunities
HAM radio skills are perishable. Specifically, if you don’t use them, you’ll lose them. In this case, you need training.
The good news is that HAM radio is a popular hobby and there are several organizations dedicated to keeping skills sharp. The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) are both civilian organizations dedicated to the use of HAM radios during emergencies.
Both groups practice regularly and hold local and national events devoted both basic and advanced skills such as passing simple messages, and coordinating complex networks for data exchange.
The prepper community has its very own radio organization for communications. Specifically, I’m talking about the American Redoubt Radio Operators Network (AmRRON). AmRRON is a collection of prepper radio operators. AmRRON has formalized radio communication from frequencies, time windows, and digital modes.
Chiefly, they host formal networks where operators practice exchanging situation reports in both spoken and digital forms. For the past several years they have hosted T-Rex, and an annual exercise based on potential nation-wide grid down events.
Each T-Rex event selects a potential disaster and presents a week’s worth of build up with mock-news reports sent via the internet and radio. Next, as the event builds, it kicks off for real with the announcement that the grid has failed and they instruct you to power down your house and in similar fashion power up your communication gear. Finally, over the weekend, the networks operate according to the AmRRON’s operating instructions. I’ve never seen a more professionally run exercise. Even if you don’t take part fully, you can gain a lot by just following along.
Saying 73 to HAM Radio for Preppers
Communication is something that we take for granted. We use cell phones. Radios are always on in the background. The television is always on. The internet is a constant and consistent form of connection between us.
But what if the lights go out, the internet goes down, and all radio services stop. How will you communicate?
HAM radios for preppers are one of the best methods for exchanging information for when all the familiar methods have gone. It takes tools. It takes knowledge. Most importantly it takes proficiency. Undeniably, there is no better time than now to start on your path to communicating with ease.
