More and more radio manufacturers nowadays are producing the massive number of radios to help many passionate hunters. In facts, it’s very popular now that you can see packs of camouflage radios with extra pre-package of headsets, boom microphone or car charging adapters. Peculiar features have even added great value to the increasing number of two-way radios in the field of hunting. The best two-way radios for hunting are specially created for clarity, range and weather resistance.
Moreover, two-way radios for hunting are known to be tough at the same time and loaded with great features for incoming calls, privacy codes and eavesdrop reducers.
Choosing the Right Two-Way Walkie Talkie for Hunting
Range
If you are looking forward to having your next hunting in dense woods or in mountains, the range should be taken into account in purchasing your two-way radio. Most likely trees and hills will undermine the signals leading to dead spots when using a low-quality radio.
This is the main reason why you must have a more powerful design that can bring strong signal range despite hunting in a difficult and very remote environment. You should also opt for a unit that has the capacity to improve range with built-in repeater channels, longer antenna and adjustable wattage.
Battery Life
How long would you stay outdoors during your hunting? This is a very important question that involves the life of the radio’s battery. What you need is a set of two-way radios with incredible battery life that can extend for a very long time. For best options, you can choose models that work on standard AA or AAA type of batteries.
NOAA Weather Information
Weather is always unpredictable and when you are hunting you need to be informed of the weather condition of your hunting area. Choosing a model with weather information will surely be an asset throughout your hunting. As the weather change in any minute, you need a portable hand-held unit that provides immediate weather updates.
Headset Support
It’s very important not to scare away the animal you want to hunt. More often, holding a unit can cause transmission that can drive away your target. That’s why you need to think of purchasing a type of two-way radio that supports your preferred headset.
Privacy Codes
Another essential feature to consider is the privacy code. This code helps a hunter to filter broadcasts from other hunters. It is so convenient to communicate with your group without intervening messages.
Best Two Way Radios for Hunting: Reviews in 2017
1. Midland GXT1050VP4 36-Mile 50-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio – Best long range two way radio for hunters
Midland’s GXT1050VP4 two-way radio with 22 channels is specially made for the hunter who’s searching for highest range operation in a weatherproof and durable package. These long-range radios can provide superb performance in a hunting situation with 2 to 4 miles in practice.
Features of this model include the following privacy codes:
- Direct or group calling
- SOS siren and more.
- Five animal call alerts.
- NOAA weather radio/alert/scan, silent operation
- Whisper function
This radio’s best feature is the clarity of the sound. In fact, even in whisper mode, human voice can still be heard clearly by other members of the hunting activity. It uses AA batteries, and an optional drop-in charger for long lasting battery life plus it is extremely lightweight.
Drawbacks: On the other hand, this is pretty expensive and you need a license to use GMRS band.
Despite being expensive, the Midland GXT1050VP4 is great products for passionate hunters who want to pursue wild hunting. The exceptional features of this device are more than enough to compensate every penny you will spend buying.
2. Motorola MT350R FRS Weatherproof Two-Way – 35 Mile Radio – Durable Walkie Talkie for hunting
This Waterproof radio is known for being almost impenetrable to dust and the undesirable wet weather conditions you will most probably encounter during your hunting. It has NOAA channels to keep you continuously updated regarding emergency alerts such as flash flood, extreme thunderstorm and winter storms. When you are setting up for a very important kill shot, this Motorola model got its VibraCall feature to rely on.
You don’t have to worry carrying it anywhere because this fits perfectly in pockets which is much convenient than a radio with a clip. This model is definitely a perfect tool for all outdoorsman because of its competitive and tough design. The clarity of the audio is clear as a trademark of Motorola product. Plus it has a mini-USB charger, additional equipment to the package which is easy to carry.
Features:
- Weatherproof
- Competitive design for rigid hunting
- NOAA channels
- Convenient and handy
- Awesome audio clarity
Drawbacks: Presently, this product doesn’t have enough charging station and according to Motorola, it has to be released soon.
3. Midland Consumer Radio GXT1030VP4 36-Mile 50-Channel GMRS Two-Way Radio
The Midland GXT1030VP4 is designed for high visibility with 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Radios plus NOAA Weather and All Hazard Alert. This model comply the JIS4 Standard of exposure to extreme weather condition and showcase the maximum power of 36-Mile Range for GMRS Handheld Radios.
Weather Scan finds the nearest NOAA broadcast to stay up to date with the latest weather and hazard information. It stands out in the crowd with its All Hazards Alert that allows it to receive more emergency announcements which include Nuclear Power Plant Warnings, Child Abduction, Landslide Warnings and Biological Hazard. Also, don’t miss its amazing audio clarity plus it special feature that can allow you to speak quietly without being heard by others.
Its SOS is made to send out a sound intended for emergency situations and The Group Call for “direct calls” within the group. It also uses silent notification through its Vibrating Alert.
Features:
- 50 Channels with Up to 36-Mile Range,120V Charger.
- NOAA/All Hazard Weather Channels with Alert and Weather Scan
- Meets the JIS4 Standard of exposure to heavy rain for 30 minutes
- 142 Privacy Codes
- Vibrate Alert.9 Levels of VOX for Hands-Free Operation
Drawbacks: You must obtain a license from the FCC to transmit on the GMRS frequencies. Some people operate on these frequencies illegally, but there is a risk being discovered and fined by the FCC.
4. Baofeng UV-82 Two-Way Radio (Black)
Baofeng UV-82 got everything you want! Its Quality FM transceiver is a dual band handheld and a much better version of the famous UV-5R. This brand new model is manufactured with advanced Baofeng circuitry, a dual position PTT and enhanced audio.
The UV-82 comes with a much bigger case for better holding. Baofeng UV-82 is very handy and convenient with bigger keys to make it easier for bigger fingers to press. In addition to keys, its built-in flashlight lens is bigger is also larger to provide big and bright coverage for a wider coverage.
The Baofeng UV-82 has improved sound quality with its huge built-in speaker belts for better communication in a group. For stronger transmissions, the UV 82 works at up to 5W and uses an 1800mAh Li-Ion battery pack for long lasting power. This better version has dual Push-To-Talk key for an instant switch of A/B transmissions in just a single button.
Features:
- Baofeng circuitry
- Bigger case and keys
- Larger built-in flashlight lens
- Dual position PTT
- Enhanced audio
- Large built-in speaker belts
- 1800mAh Li-Ion battery
Drawbacks: Manual storage of memory is not possible in this model. Using some software will help do the storage.
5. Uniden Atlantis 270 Handheld Floating 2-Way 6W VHF Marine Radio – Black
The Uniden Atlantis 270 possesses all NOAA emergency weather channels and all marine channels from the USA to international marine channels. Plus it complies with the standard of the IPX7 submersible. With its magnificent backlit LCD display, it is very easy to use, whether its day or night.
Features:
- JIS7/IPX7 Submersible Waterproof level and a Design to Float1/2.5/6W (VHF) + Power Boost PTT Key
- 10 Hour Battery Life
- NOAA Weather Channels
- Dual and Triple Watch Operation
- Weather Alert Watch mode
- Emergency 16/9 Channel Monitoring
- Large, Easy-To-Read Backlit LCD Screen
- AC & DC Adapter and Charging Cradle Included
- Glow Seals
Drawbacks: In case you got a marine radio that has DSC capability, then you need to have a 9-digit MMSI (maritime mobile service identity) number. A long time broadcasting may affect its operation.
6. Cobra MR HH425LI VP 15-Channel VHF/GMRS Two-Way Marine Radio
The Cobra MR HH425LI VP Marine Professional Series VHF/GMRS Radio helps you to communicate with your group in almost any type of surroundings. This is a great radio for the boatman, packed with amazing number of features, range and power to be aware of the weather and maintain a consistent communication.
This radio can use the VHF band for better operation on channel maps in US, Canadian and International channels. It also allows you to switch instantly with a press of a single button to its GMRS channels plus a super clear UHF/FM reception. Moreover, it has 15 channels and 121 privacy codes.
Features:
- Illuminated function keys and large LCD display for high visibility even at night.
- Operates on all US, Canadian and International VHF channels
- 15 GMRS UHF/FM channels
- Access to all 10 NOAA channels for 24-hour weather and hazard information.
- Compliant to JIS7 standards
- Manufacturer’s 3-year warranty
Drawbacks: Uncoded and coded squelches take a second to unlock. FRS frequencies 1-7 are only for to GMRS power and 8-14 frequencies are excluded.
Final Verdict
After discussing the markets top choices, hopefully, you learned from the detailed guidance that you may apply on your next hunting adventure. Choosing the proper radio is crucial to help passionate hunters and may also save a life from unexpected circumstances.
We won’t recommend something based only on one marketing aspect or hunting perspectives. You may choose between a certain product and more expensive one for your next hunting mission.
We got the rankings to make sure you will bring the right and suitable hunting tool to take with you for your next hunting mission. Never hesitate to share your thoughts with us. Talk to us about your hunting needs.
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