With continuous advances in technology our ability to communicate with one another in the field is better than ever. Whether you’re calling home to say you’ll be late for dinner, or keeping in touch with a fellow hunter in the bush we are certainly less alone than in times gone by.In more populated areas like those we typically encounter in Southern Ontario, taking your cell phone with you on your hunt, particularly if you hunt alone, can be a life saver. Just remember to keep it turned off when you’re hunting. And for those remote hunts, if your budget allows, a satellite phone will keep you in contact with civilization from just about anywhere on the planet.
Another affordable option is to buy one of the two basic types of portable radios that are available to the general consumer; GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) or FRS (Family Radio Service).
Two-way radios operate at ultrahigh frequency (UHF) between the ranges of 462.5625 and 467.7125 MHz. There is no license required for GMRS units up to 2 watts in Canada, but be careful if you intend to use them in the States, because an FCC license may be required. Many GMRS units have a range of nearly 12 km making them ideal for a variety of outdoor activities.
FRS units are less expensive and do not require a license in Canada or the US, but have a shorter range, often less than five kilometers, and a fewer number of useable channels. Both types have a typical talk time of 8-10 hours without recharging, or replacing batteries.
The ability to keep in touch is not only convenient it can potentially be a lifesaver. But remember the range of your GMRS of FRS unit is greatly reduced in hilly terrain or dense cover. Always…always know your device and its limitations.
Modern communication devices are just one more tool to add to the hunters backpack and used responsibly they can add a whole new level of safety to your outdoor pursuits.
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