Welcome to our roundup of the best hunting radios where we’ll break down the features and pros and cons of the top hunting radios available today. Using two way radios while hunting is becoming more popular. As a matter of companies are now making radios with features suited to hunters, such as camo, headsets, charging options for your truck or car, waterproof and rugged to name a few.
We always try to give you the most options possible so we will list more than one buying option, when it’s available. That way you can quickly compare prices on the radio you’ve decided to buy!
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Midland – GXT1050VP4 Handheld GMRS 50 Channel Walmart Amazon
- Close Second: Motorola Solutions Motorola Talkabout T465 Walmart Amazon
- Top Low Priced Option: Retevis RT68 Two Way Radios Long Range Amazon
- Best for Long Range: BAOFENG UV-5G (UV-5X) GMRS Radio, Long Range Amazon
- Top For Waterproof: Cobra ACXT1035R FLT CAMO Waterproof Walkie Talkies Walmart Amazon
- Best For Big Groups: Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies Rechargeable (10 Pack) Amazon
- Top For Under $50: Motorola 25-Mile Talkabout T260 2-Way Radios Walmart Amazon
Imagine being in a heavily wooded area and right in front of you you see a huge buck but your hunting partner is too far away to call to. That’s where quality hunting radios come to the rescue, ensuring you have reliable communication in the great outdoors.
Not to mention how much you’ll appreciate having a top quality radio if you, or someone in your party, has a medical emergency. Most two way radios also have a weather alert feature which can literally be a life saver.
We’ll Help You Choose
It can be a time consuming hassle finding the perfect hunting walkie-talkie for you and the terrain that you hunt. No one wants to deal with bad sound, lost signals or limited range while out on a hunt. So, we’ve done the homework for you and reviewed some of the best walkie talkies available to uncover which one is really the best 2 way radio for hunting. No more limited range or dropped signals, and no more communication headaches!
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More Details On Our Top Picks:
Midland GXT1050VP4 available on Walmart and Amazon
The Midland GXT1050VP4 is our top pick This walkie-talkie, a slight change from the popular GXT1000VP4 this one is in camo, offers rugged durability and the ability to use AA batteries as a backup to the rechargeable batteries. It is complete with mic headsets, both AC/DC adapters and a a charging station.
On the field, the rechargeable batteries lasted a full day of use, while alkaline batteries provided 10 plus hours of power. The walkies are incredibly reliable, user-friendly, and comfortable to hold. They stay securely on your belt clip for quick access. With 142 privacy codes and 50 channels, your communication remains secure within your group. According to the manufacturer, you can expect a 36 mile range, but we found it was a lot less in dense wooded areas. Closer to 1 mile with great sound.
Pros:
- 50 channels
- 142 privacy codes.
- Clear sound in wooded areas
- Animal calls (wolf, cougar, turkey, and crow and duck)
- Vibrate for quiet notifications
- NOAA alerts
Cons:
- Not completely waterproof, splash resistant only
Motorola T465 Talkabout available on Walmart and Amazon
The Motorola T465 Talkabout – a versatile outdoor radio. These radios are rugged, user-friendly, and deliver clear communication to a 2 mile range in wooded terrain. Battery life is impressive, lasting over 3 days on a single charge after an initial 14-hour charge. This radio is bigger than some of the other models, but we think that all the benefits will outweigh the added weight for most people.
Pros:
- Long range, clear transmission
- Builtin: SOS signal and NOAA alerts
- Two power options : rechargeable and AAA batteries.
- Durable construction will hold up well in an outdoor environment.
- Complete with a carrying case, 2 PTT earbuds.
Cons:
- Occasional static and interference
Retevis RT68 available on Amazon
These Retevis walkies are solidly built and very durable and should last for a lot of hunting trips. They offer an intuitive user interface for ease of use. They provide clear communication as far up to two miles in most situations and feature a 1200 mAh rechargeable battery for extended use. Retevis RT68 ensures you can spend your time hunting, not recharging your walkies. That’s why we rated these hunting radios as the Top pick for low cost radios.
Pros:
- Long range
- Superior audio quality
- No hands operation
- Excellent battery life.
- USB charging, fast, easy and reliable
- Sturdy construction for many hunting seasons
Cons:
- No ear piece included
Baofeng UV-5G available on Amazon
Baofeng UV-5G is among the top long range hunting radios available today. This walkie is the GMRS version of the well known UV-5R model. What sets it apart is that you don’t need an FCC license, making it a convenient choice. , The Baofeng UV-5G impressed us with its clear communication from just over 1.5 miles away in densely wooded areas. The large 1800mAh rechargeable battery lasts as much as 12 hours with moderate use.
Pros:
- GMRS channels for longer range.
- Pairable with repeaters for extended range.
- Large battery for extended use.
- Automatically scans NOAA
- Weather alerts
- Push to talk
Cons:
- Must manually set privacy code
Cobra ACXT1035R available at Walmart and Amazon
The Cobra ACXT1035R FLT CAMO is a new addition to the Cobra waterproof models designed to survive harsh outdoor environments whether you’re hunting, hiking or just spending a day at the beach. They claim to have a 37-mile range, and our communication reached up to 2.5 miles in a heavily wooded area. With IP67 waterproofing, they can withstand rain and getting splashed, and since it can float, they won’t sink if they get dropped in a lake. If you’re looking for a top quality two way radio that has long-range capabilities, the ACXT1035R is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- 37 mile range
- secure communication with 121 privacy codes
- 22 channels
- NOAA weather channels
- Rewind-Say-Again message playback.
- Durable for long lasting use
Cons:
- A little clunky compared to other models
Motorola T260 Talkabout available at Walmart and Amazon
The Motorola T260 Talkabout is designed to be rugged and withstand all types of outdoor adventures, boasting better battery life and a sleek design, and useful features. We found it to be a reliable choice for under $50. These radios can run on either 3 AAA batteries or NiMH rechargeable batteries. With moderate use, the AAA batteries lasted lasted up to 20 hours but the rechargeable batteries only lasted around 8 hours. While they claim to have a range of as much as 25 miles, in reality they deliver clear reception up to around 800 yards in wooded areas. The T260 is a solid choice for those on a budget.
Pros:
- Small, easy to carry.
- Durable
- Great battery life
- NOAA channels
- Weather alerts and updates
- Scanning feature – connects to clear channels
- Nice, clear reception in wooded areas
Cons:
- Range is limited in some terrains such as woods and mountains
- Audio of built in speaker can be improved
Retevis RT22 available on Amazon
The Retevis RT22 offers 16 channels and a VOX for hands free use. While it’s powerful for FRS radios, it’s more suitable for larger groups. Each unit includes a 1000mAh rechargeable battery along with a a charging cable, and can be attached to your belt with a belt clip. These two way radios are lightweight and thin for easy holding. The privacy codes ensure clear communication within your group. While not as rugged as some options, the RT22 offers great value for larger groups.
Pros:
- Great for big groups
- Good value for 10 walkies of this quality
- Easy to carry design – lightweight and thin
- Large belt clips
- Sound quality is nice and loud
Cons:
- Not as durable as other models
Top Tips For Using 2 Way Radios While Hunting:
Using two-way radios responsibly and effectively can enhance your hunting experience while maintaining safety and camaraderie within your group. Proper planning and communication can make a significant difference in the success of your hunting trip.
Here are some tips to know:
Frequency Management:
When using two-way radios for hunting, it’s crucial to understand and comply with local radio frequency regulations. Familiarize yourself with the frequencies allocated for your region and the hunting party. This prevents interference with other users and ensures clear communication.
Group Communication Plan:
Before heading out on your hunting expedition, establish a clear communication plan with your group. Designate specific call signs or code words for different situations, such as signaling when game is spotted, when you need assistance, or when it’s time to regroup.
Terrain Considerations:
Keep in mind that the effectiveness of two-way radios can vary depending on the terrain. In hilly or densely forested areas, signal strength might be reduced. Consider using higher-powered radios or repeaters to improve signal reach in such environments.
Whisper Mode:
Many two-way radios have a whisper mode or low-volume setting. Utilize this feature to communicate quietly with your hunting partners, reducing the risk of scaring away game due to loud or abrupt radio chatter.
Battery Management:
To ensure your radios remain functional throughout the hunting trip, carry spare batteries and keep them warm in cold weather, as low temperatures can drain battery life quickly. Turn off radios when not in use, and monitor battery levels regularly.
Hands-Free Accessories:
Invest in hands-free accessories such as headsets or lapel microphones to allow for discreet communication while keeping your hands free for hunting activities. This minimizes movement and noise that might alert game to your presence.
Avoid Unnecessary Chatter:
Maintain discipline in radio usage by limiting non-essential conversation. Excessive chatter can be distracting and counterproductive, potentially scaring away the very game you’re trying to locate or approach.
Practice Radio Etiquette:
Adhere to good radio etiquette by waiting for a break in ongoing conversations before transmitting. Pause and listen for a moment to ensure the channel is clear before speaking, preventing your message from being garbled or lost in cross-talk.
Emergency Communication:
Establish a clear protocol for emergency situations. Designate a specific distress call or phrase and ensure all members of your hunting party understand its meaning. This is vital for swift response in case of accidents or unexpected dangers.
Carry a Map:
Always have a map of your hunting area with you, and use it in conjunction with your radios to pinpoint your location accurately. This can be crucial in helping your group coordinate and navigate effectively
Some Differences In Walkie Talkies
Here is some additional information on two way radios. Each type of radio has it’s good and bad and some models work better in certain areas (heavy woods for example) than others.
Family Radio Service (FRS):
FRS walkie-talkies are great if you need something for communicating within a small area. They are ok for hunting if you aren’t going too far into the wilderness. They’re affordable and straightforward and easy to use.
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS):
GMRS radios have a longer range than FRS, with clear transmission for longer distances. Perfect for hunting over larger areas. Note that using GMRS radios may require an FCC license.
FRS and GMRS radios both operate in the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band.
Camo Walkie Talkies:
Radios with camouflage work great for hunters since they seamlessly blend into your surroundings and all your gear. These radios are generally very durable and have features like things like noise cancellation, no hands operation and IP.
To ensure you get the best hunting radios for your outdoor adventures, consider your needs, where you hunt and the terrain. Heavy woods, mountains and other outdoor environments can impact the range of your hunting radio. Considering these things first, will help you get the biggest bang for your buck in a hunting walkie talkie.
Features Of The Best Hunting Radios
Selecting the perfect walkie-talkie for your hunting adventures requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice:
Range:
This will tell you approximately how far you can transmit or receive signals. In short, how far away from one another you can be and still talk back and forth. If you hunt in mountainous or densely wooded terrain, opt for long-range two way radios. Keep in mind that actual range may vary depending on the type of terrain and how much distance you have between you and other group members. It’s advisable to consult with hunters familiar with your hunting area to get a real world idea of what range you’ll need in your walkies.
Durability:
When hunting you will often encounter harsh conditions, difficult terrain, water, and unpredictable weather, all your equipment needs to be well built and able to last through these tough conditions. Your equipment is able to take a beating, whether from falls, cold weather, or adrenaline-induced mishaps. Any hunting radio worth the money should live through at least some level of mishap.
Waterproof:
It’s practically guaranteed that you’ll use your radio in rain, snow, or even during water crossings during it’s life. Choose walkies, and all your other equipment, that are shockproof and waterproof to ensure they can withstand tough conditions and inclement weather.
Battery Life:
A walkie-talkie’s battery should last throughout your hunting day to prevent disruptions in communication. For a full day of hunting, aim for a battery that supports at least 8 to 12 hours of continuous use. Rechargeable options may cost a little more up front, but in the long run they can be convenient and save you a little money too.
Channels:
Many hunting walkie talkies give you several channels to chose from, this means you can change from one channel to another so you can avoid heavy traffic channels. The more channels a walkie has, the more likely you can find a private channel.
Privacy Codes:
Many models of radios have privacy codes to be used on each channel. These codes help keep communication within your group and reduce problems with interference with others in the area ensuring you’re talking only to members of your own group.
Weather Alerts:
Walkie-talkies with NOAA weather channels provide real-time weather updates while you’re out hunting. These alerts are essential for safety, especially in areas with rapidly changing weather conditions.
Headset Quality:
A good headset can minimize unexpected noise and disturbances while hunting, ensuring clear communication with your group. Look for comfortable and reliable headsets, and consider models with quality noise cancelling capabilities for the clearest transmission and reception.
- Weight and Size: Mobility is crucial while hunting, so opt for as small and light of a walkie talkie that you can find that still have the features you need. Bulky equipment can add unnecessary weight to your gear and hinder your movements.
- Value: There is a connection between the price you’ll pay for your hunting radio and the level of features you’ll get. You will get what you paid for. However, that doesn’t mean that some of the less expensive models we’ve listed above won’t be worth it for you. The cheaper models may not have all the features or less range or battery life, but will they work for you and the locations you hunt in? If so, why spend more for features you don’t even need?
FAQs
The whole purpose of this article is to help you choose the best hunting radio for you. Only you can decide what features and budget work for you. We’ve given you a lot of information in this article so far, here are a few more things you may want to consider.
Being able to communicate with your group, or call for help in an emergency, is vital when hunting. These additional frequently asked questions, and their answers, may help narrow your choice down even more.
Why Use A Two Way Radio For Hunting?
Using walkie-talkies while hunting offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Safety: You can let others in your group know about hazards, or call for help if needed
- Better Coordination: Stay in sync with others in your hunting party
- Dependable Communication: Walkie-talkies are more dependable than cell phones in remote areas with unreliable cellular service.
- Easy to Use: Handheld radios allow easy group communication, avoiding the distraction of typing on a phone while hunting.
Can I Get More Out Of My Radio?
To optimize your walkie-talkie’s performance, consider the following tips:
- Learn how to use all the features on your walkie, read the owners manual
- Use a channel with minimal chatter to reduce interference.
- Get the most out of handsfree use – use a reliable earpiece or headset
- Know how to access your emergency alert feature
Is It Legal To Use A Radio For Hunting Deer?
Yes, it’s ok to use hunting radios while hunting, though it’s important to know your local laws and regulations. Some states may have rules against using electronic devices to relay where game is located, so always follow local hunting laws to avoid penalties.
What’s The Maximum Range For Two Way Radios?
Some walkie talkies claim ranges of up to 50 miles. However, these ranges are typically tested under ideal conditions and may not hold in areas where it is hilly or has dense woods.
Which Is Best In Dense Woods UHF or VHF?
VHF (Very High Frequency) radios tend to perform better in open areas, while Ultra High Frequency (UHF) radios penetrate dense woods more effectively. UHF radios are often easier to carry and smaller due to their shorter antennas. The choice depends on your specific hunting environment.
How Long Do Walkie-Talkie Batteries Last?
Walkie-talkie battery life varies depending on factors like usage and battery type. In order to be able to continually communicate all during your hunt day, aim for a battery that lasts between 8 to 12 hours of continuous use.
Can I Mix and Match My Hunting Radios Brands?
Generally no. Most radios from different brands don’t work with one another because they are using their own frequency and coding systems. You’ll have better luck using 2, or more, radios that are the same make and model.
The Best Hunting Radios – The Bottom Line
There are a lot of reasons why you’d want to include a two way radio when you go hunting. Safety, communication, coordinating with your group are just a few. These radios can be good for other activities too. Anytime you venture into a more secluded area for a nature walk, bird watching, etc. it’s a good idea to be able to reach out if you need to.
Cell phones won’t work in many of the more remote locations where you’ll be hunting. That’s why a radio is vital. No one expects to get hurt or sick or caught in bad weather but those things do happen. instead of spending a horrible night in the cold, now you can use your radio to call for help. Much better option, isn’t it?
So, we hope that this rundown of the top hunting radios narrows the field and makes it easier to choose. After all, you don’t want to waste time looking for a radio, you want to be hunting!
Best Overall
Our top overall pick for the best hunting radios is the Midland GXT1050VP4 It has good quality earpieces, offering privacy and excellent sound even over extended distances. The GXT1050VP4’s durability ensures it can withstand various weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for hunters. If you prefer a different style, you can opt for the silver and black Midland GXT1000VP4.
The Midland GXT1050VP4 takes the top spot, every hunting radio listed above are reliable and easy to use. They can be used to talk with others over medium distances in wooded areas, making them worthwhile investments for many hunting seasons to come.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Midland – GXT1050VP4 Handheld GMRS 50 Channel Walmart Amazon
- Close Second: Motorola Solutions Motorola Talkabout T465 Walmart Amazon
- Best Low Priced Option: Retevis RT68 Two Way Radios Long Range Amazon
- Best For Long Range: BAOFENG UV-5G (UV-5X) GMRS Radio, Long Range Amazon
- Top For Waterproof: Cobra ACXT1035R FLT CAMO Waterproof Walkie Talkies Walmart Amazon
- Best For Big Groups: Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies Rechargeable (10 Pack) Amazon
- Top For Under $50: Motorola 25-Mile Talkabout T260 2-Way Radios Walmart Amazon