The Midland radios referenced seem to be the best performers, but remember those are GMRS radios that require a license for each individual user.
An alternative would be a MURS radio, such as the Motorola RDM2020, RDM2080, or an RDV radio programmed for MURS frequencies. MURS (multi-user radio service) operates on VHF frequencies, whereas GMRS such as the Midland GXT radios operate on UHF. The difference: VHF frequencies propogate better outdoors; that is they can bend around trees, hills, and foliage. UHF does not do as well outdoors, but rather is best used in steel, concrete, and urban environments due to its ability to “penetrate” these materials and provide further range in buildings.
Here is an example: I had a VHF “base station” setup on MURS (2 watts). A friend of mine lives 8 miles away in a somewhat hilly area with a large hill separating us. My base station had a unity gain antenna on it while he was operating with a portable radio. The result: static communications but he could hear me on the second floor of his house. Similarly, where my MURS VHF base station was set-up, a couple years later I installed a GMRS UHF repeater at my house (25 watts) with a 5db gain antenna. I put the antenna 15ft ABOVE where the MURS antenna was previously mounted on the house. The result: my friend with a 4 watt UHF GMRS handheld radio could not talk to me through the repeater nor could he receive transmissions from me when I used the repeater as a base station.
Just a point: different radios have different purposes and the same goes for frequencies. For hunting, camping, and OUTDOOR use, I always recommend a VHF radio if you will not use a repeater. In most cases, a 2 watt VHF radio will outperform a UHF 4 watt radio when used in a wooded outdoor environment.
Keep in mind, the Motorola RDM and RDV radio will be a “business class” radio versus the GXT consumer series. This means is should be more durable and have a higher life expectancy. The price reflects this also.
Good luck and safe hunting! -Alexander, AlphaComm
