Compact/portable CB radio recommendations wanted.

[JGK]

I know this has probably been discussed before, but we also know Search won't let you use 'CB', so I have to ask. I've done due diligence and looked back through 40 pages of this forum for a past discussion but found none. Here 'goes...



I have a small Midland 40 channel CB (model 77-805) I bought back in the mid 80's for use in hang gliding (wearable with battery pack) that also works in the truck via the cigarette lighter. Its only 4-3/4" wide by 6-1/2" long by 1-1/4" deep. The speaker is in the mic. I don't use it nowadays except when traveling out of town (e. g. family vacations, etc. ) just a few times a year. This, and a magnetic antenna, has served me well to monitor the freeway chatter on 19 of road conditions and "mobile hazards" that tend to impede quick travel times and make my radar detector go off. Of course, it's good backup in an emergency when cell phones are useless.



Anyway, on this last trip it seems reception was not so good. A lot of hiss and interference and not much clear chatter. It may be due to outdated radio electronics or a bad antenna. I already found some threads endorsing the Wilson 500, 1000, & 5000 magnetic antennas as well as the K40 and others. I will look into that. I will also invest in an SWR meter and do some tuning before I start replacing gear.



However, if I was interested in replacing my current radio, what do you gurus recommend? I don't need a lot of bells and whistles. Just a good basic up-to-date portable that I can wedge between the seats for the trip. Good reception and average or better output so I can pass the word along as I hear them is what I'm looking for. I spend far more time listening than talking.



Thanks,

Jay K.

 

[Duluth Diesel]

I have an older version of this Cobra that I let other drivers use when they're driving with me for longer distances. They use this one, and a radio shack magnet mount antenna, and I use my truck mounted cobra.



These are good radios, I've had mine for 5 years and not a bit of trouble.

http://www.cobra.com/index.php?page=shop/flypage&product_id=254&id=1



Also, before buying any CB equipment, I always point people toward this site for CB radio and antenna education.



http://www.firestik.com/Tech_Docs.htm

 

[tURBOdIEZEl]

JKG... . cobra makes a nice little radio. i dont know any hand held brands off the top of me head, but cobra model 19 dx2 is a very small unit...

 

[C. Harlan]

the only thing about the little radios like that, is in all reality, if you have an emergency and happen to be out in the middle of nowhere, you will be stranded... the best thing to do, is go the extra mile, get a good reliable radio, mag mount antenna, and keep it stored when not needed. That is what I do, and it has proved more than beneficial numerous times... Just a word of advice to you. Best of luck with your choice!



-Chris-