Hunting Communications
	There are more options available to the sportsman than ever before.  The sportsman can pick from traditional handheld CB radios, the new FRS radios, and higher powered GMRS and UHF radios.

Keeping in touch with your hunting buddies while in the field is of utmost importance.  For safety reasons, it is always a good idea to let people know where you are at all times.  Should you fall out of your stand or otherwise get injured speedy notification of others can save your life. 

There are several options for field communications which fall into 3 main categories.  The new FRS radios, handheld CB radios, and those requiring a license.

FRS radios

The latest device for communications.  These recently FCC approved radios are coming down in price fast.  They are compact, easy to use, and can be bought with accessories including hands-free headphones/mikes.  With the number of channels available and their limited range, the channels are usually quiet and un-crowded.

They are limited (as part of the FCC approval) to 500mW, with a short fixed length antenna.  This limits their range to a maximum of 2 miles.  Under practical conditions (not from mountain top to mountain top) their range is closer to 1 mile.  FRS radios can be ordered from The Michigan Sportsman Bookstore and More.

CB radios

These aren't your 70's cb.  The newest models models are as compact as the FRS radios and some even have the sideband channels that their big brothers have.  They can also be bought with all of the accessories that the FRS radios have.  Most come with a BNC connector on the top of the radio to which any compatible antenna can be twisted on.  They come with a 4 watt transmitter.  By taking off the stock "rubber duck" antenna and replacing it with a longer whip of telescoping antenna the range is often 1 mile/watt.  Hooking up to a handmade dipole antenna hung up at your favorite hunting spot can get you out to around 10-12 miles.

The mindless bantering that went on in the 70's still goes on today, even when you are far from civilization.  It seems that the FCC has for the most part ignored the 4 watt restriction and people have jacked up the power on custom units.  Its not uncommon to hear conversations with Mexico and it can be a problem to find a clear channel.  If you are willing to put up with that, you can get better range than FRS radios.

Others

Other communications options exist, but are less commonly used.  They include GMRS and VHF/UHF radios.  These radios generally require a license from the FCC.  They can however, provide a superior communications solution if you are willing to go through the trouble.