The Best Handheld Radio For Hunting In 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio

Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio. This Cobra radio can be used anywhere, whether you are on land or in the water. It has a 3 Watt power output, so it can communicate in a variety of situations. With an LCD screen and up to 10 hours of battery life, this radio is just what you need for marine use. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Uniden PRO401HH Professional Series 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio

The Uniden Pro401Hh Handheld CB Radio is a compact and lightweight radio that can be operated with one hand. It features strategically placed controls and jacks on the top, left, and right sides. It comes with an AC adapter and a telescopic antenna, making it the perfect tool for your next trip or adventure. Read Review

3. Best Efficient: Ham Radio Walkie Talkie (UV-5R 8W) Dual Band 2-Way Radio

This UV-5R 8W Walkie talkie is the best choice for your business. It's durable and provides superior range, with a built-in Li-ion battery that can support up to 20 hours of continual usage. No more worries about compatibility or finding accessories! Its compact design means it fits easily into pockets, purses and drawers, making it perfect for several uses. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine radio

This is a two-way VHF marine radio with 1, 2.5 and 5 Watt power selections. It's also a convenient way to save battery life by selecting between low and high transmission power. In most situations, the 1 Watt transmission power is all you need. If you find yourself far away from other stations or if you have trouble getting a response, you may need to boost the transmission power from 1 Watt to 2.5 Watts or 5 Watts. Read Review

Hunting is a great way to spend time in your free time. There are many activities you can do on your own, from just sitting at home to going out and experiencing the world around you. Many of us enjoy hunting for different kinds of animals or even just watching them go about their daily routines. For those that enjoy doing so, then you should really consider getting yourself a handheld radio for hunting. The good thing about having such a device is that it can help save time wherever you go and in whatever you do.

Handheld radios have become more popular than ever before and this is because they have so many benefits when compared to other communication devices like cell phones and walkie-talkies. They are very easy to use and once you get the hang of them, they can make camping even easier as well as make hiking much more enjoyable. Read our reviews on the best handheld radio for hunting for the right choice

You'll have an easier time deciding with our Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio recommendations. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding Uniden PRO401HH Professional Series 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio
Our Score:
9.8
Cobra
  • Everything You Need – This Cobra Handheld Marine Radio comes ready to use with the included drop-in battery charger, AC charger, DC charger, LiON battery pack, antenna, owner’s manual, spring loaded belt clip, and wrist strap.
  • Safety First – Scan channels to find conversations in progress and have instant access to Channel 16 for emergency situations. Use the Tri-Watch feature to monitor three channels at once (Channel 16 and two user selected channel).
  • Sea Ready – Floating design and orange core makes retrieving your radio easy if dropped overboard, and meeting JIS7 (IPX7) standards allows your radio to be submersed for 30 minutes at one meter deep.
  • Clear Communication – Burp Feature vibrates the water out of the speaker grill and improves speaker performance, while the noise cancelling microphone blocks background noise for clearer conversations.
  • Maximum Coverage – This VHF marine radio allows operation of channels in the US, Canada, and internationally at 1, 3, or 6 watts with for short and long range communication, and access to NOAA weather channels.
TOP Choice #2 Uniden PRO401HH Professional Series 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio
Our Score:
9.6
Uniden
  • Designed for use in the citizens band (CB) radio service, the PRO401HH mobile radio will operate on any of the 40 CB frequencies authorized by the (FCC).
  • The Uniden PRO401HH delivers the convenience of a handheld CB radio with the security of knowing you have the longest range possible so you can always stay in touch.
  • You can use rechargeable (9 AA Ni-MH) or alkaline (9 AA) batteries (not included). The included DC power cable will also charge your AA Ni-MH batteries. A switch inside the battery compartment lets you select rechargeable or alkaline batteries.
  • It’s compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 1 pound making it easy to operate with one hand. The design features strategically placed controls and jacks on the top, left, and right side.
  • Whether you're in your car, truck, Van or bike, over the road, camping out or just out hiking the trail, The high performance PRO401HH s you're never out of touch.
  • Features a low-power setting to conserve battery life and a high-power setting so you can extend your range When needed.
  • Included Components: Uniden Pro401Hh Handheld Cb Radio
  • Complete Set: Package contains a full set of accessories, no more worry about looking for compatible accessories. Best choice for your business. We provide 30-day hassle-free return, 18-month warranty, hardware and tech-support provided.
  • Dual-band standby, Enables you to monitor and transmit on two channels at the same time. 128 channel memory, fully in compliance with the FCC part 15B and part 90 regulations, you may need to apply for a radio license to use this device.
  • Power Source: Rechargeable 2100 mAh Li-ion Battery, Supports 12-20 Hours continual use, one more extra battery supports non-stop communication, car charger adapter also included.
  • Power Output: High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (for Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • Wide Compatibility: The Greaval UV5R Dual-band ham radio covers the most commonly used frequency range, compatible with many other radios such as the BF-F8HP/UV 82HP, etc. Bit-Trading is authorized by Baofeng officially through Amazon's Brand Registry. The Greaval UV5R is made by Baofeng on behalf of our trademark and compatible with other UV-5R models.
  • Instant Channel 16/9/Triple Watch - Triple Watch mode monitors channels 16 and 9 for a signal while you listen to the currently selected channel. The marine radio checks channel 16 and 9 for activity every 2 seconds.
  • All USA, International, and Canada Channels - The MHS75 covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, keeping you up-to-date with all the latest marine activity.
  • 1 /2.5/5 Watt Switchable - Select between 1, 2.5, and 5 Watts for short- and long-range communication - this is also a convenient way to save a little battery life. In most situations, the 1 Watt transmission power is all you need. If you find yourself far away from other stations and have trouble getting a response, you may need to boost the transmission power from 1 Watt to 2.5 Watts or 5 Watts.
  • JIS8 Waterproof Level - Uniden MHS75 VHF Hand Held Radio won't give up no matter how wet it gets. Whitecap splash, gusty spray, tidal wave, whatever, this radio can take it. The Uniden MHS75 2-way Marine Radio is built rugged to take the rigors of being out on the water, day in and day out with a full JIS8 waterproof rating. It also features a floating design, and is submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet.
  • All NOAA Weather Channels with Weather Alert - This radio comes preprogrammed with NOAA weather channels. The Emergency/Weather Alert allows it to function as a severe weather warning radio and will also alert you to any local or national emergencies. If the NOAA issues warning while this feature is turned On, the radio sounds an alert tone. You will then hear the emergency/weather broadcast.
  • High resolution dot matrix LCD display. Programmable function keys. Speaker mic Jack.
  • Compact Case Design. Water Activated Emergency Strobe light. Oversized full dot matrix display. E20 Easy to Operate Menu System
  • High capacity 1850 mAh Li-Ion battery. 3 hour desktop rapid charger. 12VDC and 110VAC charging cables and charging cradle included.
  • 3-year Waterproof Warranty. Floating / Submersible IPX7 Waterproof rating (3.3 feet or 1 meter for 30 minutes). Built in FM Broadcast band receive
  • All USA, International and Canadian channels. Selectable 6W / 2.5W / 1W output power. Receive WX and FM radio bands 76MHz to 108MHz
  • 【Support CHIRP Programming USB Cable:】 Works with Windows 7/10 System,you can program your Ham portable radio using this durable programming cable!
  • 【Antenna: 】VHF and UHF Dual-band handheld have High Gain Antenna.
  • 【After service:】 Fast shipping and 100% USA 1 Year Warranty and 30 days no reason return, any other problem please feel free to contact us.
  • 【Power Source:】 Rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion Battery, Power-saving Features to extend battery life; Low battery alarm advises you when to recharge or replace the batteries.
  • 【Speaker Mic:】 Remote Directional Microphone & Speaker transmits high quality sound even in loud environments and helps to provide a really perfect long range distance communication
  • 【Tri-Power:】High /Medium /Low Power Switchable, Programmable Radio Supports Keyboard or PC programming (meets all your needs in Outdoor /Home /Workplace use, etc.)
  • 【4 Pack Two Way Radio】16 Memory Channels FRS462MHz and Up to 3 Miles Range In Open Area Without Obstructions (as Rural Areas, Suburbs or Seaside). If in Cities or Towns, Reach 0.6-1.2 Miles(Exactly Depends on Your Surroundings). Using 16 Position Rotary Channel Switch To Change The Different Channel. The Channel Frequency Can Be Programmed In the Frequency Range, You Can Program Any of 50 CTCSS Tones and CDCSS Tones on Each Programmed Channel; Easy to Use for Both Adult and Children.
  • 【1500mAh Li-ion Rechargeable Battery】 Large Capacity Battery Allow You Can Charge 2-3 Hours Then Use It for 8-9 Hours Continuous Use.
  • 【USB Charger Design】 The Charger is USB Cable Version, You Can Charge the Walkie Talkie with USB Plug for Your Phone, Power Bank and Also the USB Port from You PC Laptop or Car. Charging Even You are Outside with Power Bank.
  • 【18-Month-Warranty】All eSynic Product Come With 18-Month-Warranty, 30-day Free Return and Lifetime Customer Support. Our eSynic Puts Users in the Center, Making Your Life more Convenient.
  • 【Multifunction for Wide Application】50 CTCSS/ DCS Function/ Emergency Alarm Function and Built in LED Torch Light, Clearly Seen in the Dark. Handheld Two Way Radio Great for Biking and Hiking, Hotel Management, Villas, Restaurant Kitchens, Outings, Outdoor Mountain Climbing, Construction Sites, Factory Warehouses, Car Driving, Cruise Ships, School, Churches, Retail Stores and Supermarkets, Security Personnel, Construction Personnel, Safety Maintenance Personnel.
8 Retevis RT21 Walkie Talkies
Our Score:
8.7
Retevis
  • Long range walkie talkies with high-quality covert air acoustic earpiece so that no worry about the quality
  • Enhanced accessories including the solid shell are reliable for long term use; durable belt clip and VOX function support your hands free operation
  • Rechargeable walkie talkies; intelligent charge control unit allows you to charge it alone and enjoy your leisure time
  • Easy to operate;same channel can work directly easy for all of the age to use together
  • Keep away from the irrelevant call; they will shield other people chatter and ensure you and your team have quiet and smooth talk
  • Our walkie talkies is only FRS walkie talkies;the FCC ID is 2AAR8RETEVISRT21;our walkie talkies meet FCC rule part 95
  • 【Up to 30h Standby Time 】With a large-capacity 1500mAh lithium rechargeable battery. Working Time: 12 hours, Standby Time: 50 hours. Less than 5h to be fully charged quickly. Anti-drop two-way radio can withstand harsh environments. Support program to be compatible with other brands' radios. ( Software only support PC, not Mac) The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz;
  • 【UHF RADIO with Safer TALK】Add private CDCSS code in 20 channels to prevent irrelevant signals from interfering with your conversation. 360°Rotate the channel knob easy to switch the channel, adjustable volume level keeps sounds clarity without noise and distortion. The backlit LCD display can easily read the status of the channel and setting. A built-in speaker and mic with additional ear-bud attachments. Communicate effortlessly in noisy areas like carnivals parties and concerts.
  • 【FCC Certificated 5 Watts Radios】SAMCOM Walkie Talkies FCC ID : 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes Two-Way Radio x2; 1500mAh Battery x2; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x2; K-Type Earpiece x2; Dock Charger (US Standard) x2; Belt Clip( Already Assembled); Radio :1.19*1.18*11 inch
  • 【TWO WAY RADIO LONG RANGE】5 Watts strong penetration high power walkie-talkie and long antenna guarantee the stability of the communication process. High mode provides strong penetrating power between the construction area. Low Mode saves battery life and long use.
  • 【2 Way Radios with Dual PTTs】Left Side PTT allows you to make "direct calls" to the same channel members. GROUP PTT allows you to talk to other people simultaneously even they are not on the same channel. Ideal for on-site business applications, help work crews connect, coordinate and collaborate to get the job done right. Suitable for hotel front desk, retail, restaurants, grocery. Security guard, Supermarket, Construction area, Field, School, Church, Policy Office, Wedding.
  • 🔶【FCC certificated Handheld Radio】SAMCOM Walkie Talkies FCC ID : 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes : Two-Way Radio x6; 1500mAh Battery x6; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x6; K-Type Earpiece x6; Dock Charger (US Standard) x6; Belt Clip (already assembled); Suitable for hotel front desk, retail, restaurants, grocery. Security guard, Supermarket, Construction area, Field, School, Church, Policy Office, Wedding.
  • 🔶【Programmable Walkie Talkies】Start your conversation out of the box with no setting needed. The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz; Built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery. Working Time: 12 hours, Standby Time: 50 hours.Radio :1.19*1.18*11 inch. Customize your own radio with our free programming software ! ( Software only support PC, not Mac)
  • 🔶[ Dual Channles & PTT Buttons ] You can configure the SAMCOM FPCN30A radio to receive and transmit two channels ( Single Channel and GROUP channel ) simultaneously. GROUP channels allows you to stay in touch with all members even they are not on the same single channel and not missing any important information.
  • 🔶【Two Way Radio Long Range】20 channels with 5W strong penetration and long antenna ensure you can talk freely with your family and friends for hiking, hunting, climbing. Up to 30 miles in open areas &1-5 miles in build-up areas. High Power (5W) provides strong penetrating power between the construction area. Low Power (2W)Mode saves battery life and long use.
  • 🔶【SAMCOM 2 Way Radio】Add CDCSS code in each channel to prevent irrelevant signals from interfering with your conversation. 360°Rotate the channel knob easy to switch the channel, adjustable volume level keeps sounds clarity without noise and distortion. The backlit LCD display easily reads the status of the channel and setting. Speaker mic with additional ear-bud attachments. Communicate effortlessly in noisy areas. Anti-drop two-way radio can withstand harsh environments.
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What to Look For in a best handheld radio for hunting?

Weight And Size

Both weight and size play a major role in carrying all you need. Two-way radios are small and lightweight, so they can be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. Although smaller units can be more affordable than larger models, they might not offer as many features or provide the same protection. Heavy-duty, impact-resistant two-way units that are heavier and more durable are a better choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be tough.

Channels & Privacy Codes

Two-way radios that are license-free have a fixed frequency they can transmit on. PMR446 The majority of two-way radios without a license have 8 to 16 channels. These tune the frequency at which handsets communicate. There are usually privacy codes in addition to channels. These codes do not protect your transmissions, contrary to the title. They allow you to talk freely and without being interrogated by others. This can prove problematic if your use them in an area such as a ski resort, where many other two-way radios are in use.

Weatherproofing

You can't keep your two-way hidden in your bag, but there is a good chance it will be exposed to other conditions than the cool, mild, early summer sun when there is a gentle breeze blowing. It is important to consider the weatherproofing of your two-way. If you reside in an area with moderate temperatures and light to predictable rains, some models can withstand splashing water.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.

Maximum Range

When choosing a 2-way radio, the first thing to think about is how far you want them to travel. Consumer 2-way radios with a transmit power of 0.75W and the PMR446 frequency can travel up to 10 km. This could be possible only in the ideal circumstances: high above ground with no obstructions between radios. This range is unlikely to be achieved unless you use your walkie-talkies to connect between mountaintops. The maximum range in a dense urban setting is more likely to be lower. A good radio will provide sufficient range to reach the majority of people. You will require more power and range than that. They are more costly than the license-free model and require a license.

Battery Type

Many two-way radios can be powered with regular alkaline batteries. Others have rechargeable batteries that include a dock. Two-way radios should not be used for longer than one day without power access. A model that takes both regular and multiple batteries is a better option if you are going on camping trips. We recommend regular 2-way rechargeable radios. This is because used batteries are expensive and can cause damage to the environment.

Number Of Handsets

You will need as many handsets as you can afford when purchasing two-way radios. While a twin-set may suffice for camping trips, busy warehouses might need more to ensure everyone is connected. The price per handset drops when you purchase in bulk. To meet every customer's requirements, we offer many two-way radio packages. If you need to add more handsets, we also have single handsets.

Emergency Features

Your two-way radio is a great tool for emergency planning, whether you are camping, hiking or hunting. An Emergency Alert radio sends an alert to all radios within your radio group in case you need immediate help. There are many types of emergency alerts available, and they vary from brand to model. Some alerts combine a beacon flashing S.O.S with international Morse Code, others send a loud alarm to members of the group. These alerts block any activity on radios and get louder until someone responds.

FAQs

Is VHF Or UHF Better?

The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.

Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?

Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.

What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?

Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.

Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?

Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?

Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.

How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?

You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.

How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?

Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.

Conclusion

It's challenging to determine the greatest product while deciding what to buy. We wanted to help you narrow things down by offering a list of best handheld radio for hunting above so you can make a better-educated decision before purchasing anything that might never work for you.

Would any of these ideas strike a chord with you? If that's the case, keep these in mind before making any purchases! You may also look into Standard Horizon HX210 Handheld VHF Radio to find another option that is a good fit for you.


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.