I know the Uv5R is the most popular radio in the world for peepers, but for a little extra coin you should check out the BAOFENG AR152.
It runs the same software as the Uv5R but It has a significantly larger battery, and it fits in standar comm pouches and has much better ergonomics. Amazon has them at 10 watts for $75 bucks with some other goodies. For not much more, it’s a huge upgrade from the 5r, and a great budget radio option before you’re ready to get into big money and encryption.
I also 3d printed a lock out for mine, that’s the black basket on top of it.
(Sad HAMS will be ignored lol)
It runs the same software as the Uv5R but It has a significantly larger battery, and it fits in standar comm pouches and has much better ergonomics. Amazon has them at 10 watts for $75 bucks with some other goodies. For not much more, it’s a huge upgrade from the 5r, and a great budget radio option before you’re ready to get into big money and encryption.
I also 3d printed a lock out for mine, that’s the black basket on top of it.
(Sad HAMS will be ignored lol)