2 Way Radiio Range ?

[Blind Bobber]

I bought a set of FRS GMRS hand held 2 way radio units which were rated for up to 7 miles. Last summer while camping in the back of H loop at Detroit Res, state park I could not reach my camp from on the res, by the bridge. I would estimate the distance to be less than 2 miles yet could not reach camp. I realize terrain, trees and other obstructions cut5 down distance but still was disapointed. So before I purchase another setI am seeking some education. Is there a direct wattage to distance ratio? I saw a unit claiming up to 17 miles. Would it be safe to count on this unit for half that or? Any suggestions or input apreciated. Thanks and merry CHRISTmas

[Bucolic buffalo]

Do a search for Real World Ranges for FRS GMRS radio on the internet and a site comes up that does a review and test comparisons for the various radios. It is on The Travel Insider site.

[freespool]

FRS radios only work on line of sight, they don't do terrain very well, plus the manufacturers over state their range.



salmon hugger

[StickFish]

The frequency that FRS operates at is very susceptible to scatter off of just about anything - if you cannot see it don't expect to talk to it without a repeater irregardless of power output. Lower frequencies (generally those under 60mhz) will have more terrain following characteristics the lower you go in frequency.

Last July I was able to go from the boat to the truck on H when I was down near the dam - but lets just say I was using a lower frequency an antenna with some gain and a few more umpaloopas on the treadmill

[Blind Bobber]

Sounds like my expectations are a bit high for this type of radio. Great info, good suggestions. Thanks again
Merry CHRISTmas to one and all!!

blind bobber