Communications
HAM Radio Operation
Communicate when all else fails
Why Learn This Skill
When cell networks are overwhelmed or disabled, HAM radio operates independently. A licensed HAM operator can communicate locally (VHF/UHF), across the country (HF), and even globally. In every major disaster, HAM radio operators have been the communication backbone when all other infrastructure failed.
Step-by-Step Guide
Get Licensed (Technician Class)
The Technician license is the entry level and covers VHF/UHF bands (most useful locally). Study at HamStudy.org or using the ARRL handbook. The exam is 35 multiple choice questions, $15 fee, no Morse code required. Most people pass with 10–20 hours of study.
Choose Your First Radio
For local comms: a dual-band HT (handheld transceiver) like the Baofeng UV-5R ($25) for budget, or Yaesu FT-60R ($150) for quality. For regional: a mobile VHF/UHF radio for your vehicle. For long-range: upgrade to General class license and HF radio.
Learn Your Local Repeaters
Repeaters are mountaintop or building-mounted relays that extend your range dramatically. A 5-watt HT that reaches 5 miles directly can hit a repeater and reach 50+ miles. Find local repeaters at RepeaterBook.com. Program them into your radio before you need them.
Join a Local Club
ARRL clubs provide Elmers (experienced mentors), public service events for practice, and community during emergencies. ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) groups are the organized emergency comm backbone.
Practice Regularly
Monitor local repeaters, check into nets (scheduled on-air meetings), participate in ARRL contests. Skills degrade without practice. In an emergency is not the time to learn how your radio works.
Pro Tips
- Store your handheld radio in a Faraday cage along with spare batteries — protect it from EMP
- Learn to program repeaters manually, not just via software — programming computers fail
- GMRS radios require a license ($35, no exam) and are legal for family comms
- Get a General class license to unlock HF (worldwide) communications
- A $25 Baofeng is worth having, but test it before your life depends on it
Common Mistakes
- Not getting licensed — transmitting without a license is a federal offense
- Buying a radio and never using it until an emergency
- Not having programmed repeaters — a radio without programmed repeaters has severely limited range
- Not having spare batteries and a charging plan
- Ignoring GMRS as a family communication tool — complements HAM very well
Recommended Tools & Gear
Related Threats
Scenarios where this skill is critical.