Rugged Two Way Radios

[Heirbyadoption]

Looking for recommendations and/or experiences from campers, backpackers, emergency personal, forestry folk, etc regarding two way radios. Looking for something water resistant or proof, decent and reliable range in mountainous terrain, good battery life, NOAA, easy programming, 1 or 2 up to 5 watt, etc...

Any tips, suggestions, warnings, etc?

I am assuming you want a handheld, not a mobile to mount in a vehicle?

Yessir. Hand units to keep in a back pack or on a belt.

[steve-in-kville]

Okay, there's a few different directions to go with this: In a handheld, no mater what brand, you're not gonna find many that put out over 5w. In the terrain you describe, you'll need power. Yes, much can be done with less, but with a rubber ducky antenna, you need power.

Is there a reason that the CB band wouldn't work? CB's are allowed 4w max, but would be an easy alternative. Just use an empty channel. If you're in the woods, you're most likely not gonna hear anyone else anyway.

A quick search found this... has NOAA and all!
https://www.cobra.com/products/hhrt50?c ... gJ4k_D_BwE