Two-Way Radios - One Pair

We reviewed several different models of 2-way radios before settling on this pair of Motorola EM-1000 units. They don't have the longest advertised reception range out there, but that number is a lot of bull anyway. Most of these units are good for a couple of miles in actual use in terrained areas, although you can get a lot more distance if over water or from a mountaintop straight down.

Features we liked:

Alert button - When the alert button is activated, the radio transmits an alert siren that is sent to the other radio in the set to warn of impending danger or an emergency

NOAA weather alert channel - warns of incoming storms

Good speakers and mics - not the garbled noises that pass for talking on some radios

Quasi-private - not perfectly private conversation, but does allow blocking of others on the same channel

Built-in flashlight - just a handy feature that has obvious benefits

GMRS channels - higher quality bands you can use, but you must have the appropriate personal license

This an effective and inexpensive tool for staying in touch while camping, backpacking or boating. Each unit weighs 7 ounces and comes with a belt clip. Each unit requires three AA batteries. Rental rate is for one pair. You can combine pair sets to maintain communication within larger groups.