Portable ham radio
CommunicationA handheld or portable amateur-radio transceiver for licensed operators.
- Approx. cost
- $30–$700
- Weight
- 8 oz – 4 lb
- Used in
- 2 kits
Purpose
Communicate over long distances and through repeaters when other networks are down.
Used in kits
- Storm Chasing Support Kit
Home Emergency
- Ham Radio Field Day Kit
Electronics & Radio
Alternatives
- GMRS radio— Simpler license, less range and flexibility.
Maintenance notes
- Keep batteries charged and firmware/programming current.
- A better antenna helps more than more power.
Buying considerations
- Handhelds are portable; a mobile/base radio reaches much farther.
- Program your local repeaters before you need them.
⚠️ Safety notes
- Transmitting on amateur bands requires a license. In a genuine emergency, any station may use any means to call for help.
Page history & editing
Revision status: approved Last edited 2026-07-01 by human editor