As someone who’s spent a fair bit of time in the great outdoors, I’ve learned a thing or two about the importance of navigation. Now, I’m not talking about the kind you use to find the nearest gas station on a road trip. I’m talking about the kind that can mean the difference between life and death when you’re stranded in the wilderness. And in this day and age, that means understanding GPS technology.

GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a network of satellites that orbit the Earth, transmitting signals that can be picked up by devices on the ground. These signals are used to calculate the device’s exact location, anywhere in the world. It’s a powerful tool, and it’s revolutionizing the way we approach wilderness rescues.

When you’re lost in the wilderness, every minute counts. The longer you’re exposed to the elements, the greater your risk of hypothermia, dehydration, and injury. Traditional search and rescue methods can take hours, even days, to locate a lost individual. But with GPS, rescuers can pinpoint a person’s location in a matter of minutes.

GPS technology is not just about speed, though. It’s also about accuracy. In dense forests or rugged mountain terrain, it’s easy for rescuers to miss a person, even if they’re just a few feet away. But with GPS, they can zero in on a person’s exact location, reducing the risk of a missed rescue.

But here’s the thing: GPS technology is only as good as the device it’s used on. That’s why it’s so important to have a reliable, high-quality GPS device when you’re venturing into the wilderness. And no, I’m not talking about the GPS on your smartphone. While that might be fine for city navigation, it’s not designed to withstand the rigors of the great outdoors.

When choosing a GPS device, there are a few key features to look for. First and foremost, it should be rugged and waterproof, able to withstand drops, dust, and water. It should also have a long battery life, as you never know how long you’ll need it. And it should have a clear, easy-to-read display, so you can quickly and easily read your coordinates, even in harsh lighting conditions.

Another important feature is the ability to send and receive messages. Some GPS devices come equipped with two-way satellite communication, allowing you to send an SOS signal and communicate with rescuers in an emergency. This feature can be a literal lifesaver, enabling you to convey vital information about your condition and situation.

It’s also worth considering a device with mapping capabilities. Detailed topographic maps can help you navigate unfamiliar terrain and plan the safest route. And with some devices, you can even download maps and updates via satellite, so you’re always equipped with the most up-to-date information.

But remember, while GPS technology is an incredible tool, it’s not a substitute for knowledge and skills. You should still learn how to read a map and compass, understand basic survival skills, and know what to do in an emergency. Because when it comes down to it, technology can fail, but your knowledge and skills can’t.

So, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a weekend hiker, don’t underestimate the power of GPS technology. It could be the difference between being lost and being found. But remember, it’s just a tool. The real key to survival is you.

The world of AK variants is as diverse as it is contentious, with every gun enthusiast seeming to have a firm opinion on which model reigns supreme. Among the cacophony of voices, one recommendation often rings out: “Just get a WASR!”

The Romanian-made WASR series has carved out a niche in the U.S. imported firearms market, often hailed as the gold standard of affordable AKs available in the country. Century Arms, one of the largest firearms importers in the U.S., attributes much of its success to the “massive demand” for the WASR.

The question that remains is whether the WASR lives up to its legendary reputation. Is it the go-to AK variant for those on a budget? To answer these questions, we’ll delve into our experiences with the rack-grade WASR-10 in 7.62×39, from firing and handling to a thorough inspection by a qualified AK gunsmith.

The WASR series, imported by Century Arms, is built by Cugir Arms Factory in Cugir, Romania. The factory has a rich history, evolving from an iron-processing facility established in 1799 in the hills of Transylvania. The WASR-10 is essentially a semi-automatic version of the Pistol Mitralieră model 1963 (PM md. 63), a licensed version of the Soviet AKM. With its simple wood furniture and well-known design, these Romanian rifles are a no-frills variant of the AKM.

The WASR we have today is the result of years of improvements. One of the most significant upgrades is the elimination of “trigger slap” in current models through an aftermarket trigger. This issue, which involves the bolt slapping back into the hammer as it travels, impacting the disconnector/trigger and snapping it back into the shooter’s trigger finger, is thankfully uncommon in modern AKs like the current WASR-10 offerings from Century.

Before testing, we had local AK expert Josh from Copperhead USA in Tempe, Arizona, inspect our WASR. It’s important to remember that AKs often require real gunsmithing, unlike other platforms where swapping internal components is relatively straightforward. AK tolerances can vary greatly, even from the same factories at different times. If you’re considering delving deeper into the AK platform, investing time and money in learning to be competent rather than just enthusiastic is well worth it.

Our WASR-10 was in good shape when we unboxed it, as expected from a basic imported AK. However, AKs require many parts to be pressed and/or riveted together, and if done incorrectly, it can lead to serious issues down the line. Josh checked the headspace, as it’s possible for an AK to fire out of battery, which can cause serious problems. Our WASR was found to have good headspace after appropriate gauging. Josh also noted that it had a tight chamber, which we’ll discuss later. It’s not uncommon to find a canted (i.e., tilted) front iron sight post on an imported AK, but luckily, our WASR’s sights were fine.

The rest of the issues were purely cosmetic, but it’s important to have some knowledge of the platform to make those distinctions. The gas block was slightly canted, and the slant brake muzzle device didn’t sit flush on the muzzle due to the detent retaining it being slightly too long. It appeared the bolt carrier had been dropped at some point, as there was a small ding on the top of the carrier just forward of the recoil spring assembly. The safety was also remarkably tight, even after bending it out, which is another common issue with many AKs.

The wood furniture was nothing special; in fact, it even manifested some unexpected issues during testing. The trigger was a typical spongy AK trigger with a tactile reset and a curved bow. Based on everything we saw, this wasn’t a cherry-picked rifle and is a good measure of what you can expect from a WASR-10.

Testing was straightforward — the best way to test a new rifle is to fire it. In particular, firing an AK with a tight chamber helps fit the bolt to the chamber, reducing that issue. We loaded 500 rounds of Red Army Standard steel case 7.62×39 ammo into four different types of mags for our break-in range day. These included US PALM AK30R magazines, XTech MAG47 polymer magazines with steel locking lugs, Magpul MOE magazines, and Bulgarian steel 30-round mags from GunMag Warehouse.

The first mags of all four types presented no issues. However, the second XTech mag failed to feed on the last round, which also set the bullet back in the casing far enough to make us discard that round. Other than that, the only magazine issue we experienced was difficulty seating them, which is a combination of needing to break in the mag release lever and the mags themselves.

As we fired round after round, the rifle’s entire barrel and handguard were rippling with heat and smoke, but it kept going. After firing 500 rounds of steel-case ammo in less than 30 minutes during our aggressive break-in test, the WASR-10 held up remarkably well. Sure, it had a few minor issues out of the box, but most were purely cosmetic, and none would be insurmountable without a minor repair or continued use to break in the components.

With an MSRP of $1,070, the WASR-10 from Century Arms isn’t the cheapest AK you can buy, but it remains one of the best value-for-money options on the market. If you’re shopping for your first AK or simply want a reliable, durable rifle, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re expecting a flawless finish, 1 MOA accuracy, and the ability to add a modern sighting system without purchasing an aftermarket mount, you might want to consider a different AK or even a different platform altogether.

AKs continue to be a staple of the American firearms market, even as prices rise. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, and fun-to-shoot AK, the WASR-10 from Century is a solid choice. As it turns out, its reputation is well-deserved.

Our Thoughts

The WASR-10 is indeed an interesting piece of hardware. Its reputation as a budget-friendly yet reliable AK variant is well-earned, as our experience suggests. The Romanian roots and the long history of the Cugir Arms Factory lend an air of authenticity that is hard to ignore.

The AK platform is not without its challenges, as indicated by the need for real gunsmithing. That said, the WASR-10 seems to have overcome many of these issues, thanks to years of improvements. The elimination of the “trigger slap” is a significant enhancement, making the WASR-10 a more user-friendly option for AK enthusiasts.

We appreciate the thorough inspection by our local AK expert, Josh. It’s a reminder that a well-built AK requires careful assembly and the right expertise. The WASR-10 passed the test with flying colors, only showing minor cosmetic issues that don’t affect its functionality.

The WASR-10’s performance during testing was commendable, holding up well despite the aggressive break-in test. This robustness, coupled with its affordability, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable AK variant.

It’s worth noting that the WASR-10 isn’t for everyone. If you’re after a flawless finish, pinpoint accuracy, or the ability to add a modern sighting system without additional expenditure, you might want to look elsewhere. However, for those seeking an affordable, reliable, and enjoyable AK experience, the WASR-10 is a solid choice, and its reputation is well-deserved.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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In the face of an emergency, communication is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. It’s the third pillar of the tactical triad: shoot, move, communicate. It’s also a key component of many non-combat emergency preparedness frameworks. Every pilot is taught the three main priorities during training — aviate (keep the aircraft flying), navigate (ensure you’re heading in a safe direction), and communicate (maintain contact with air traffic control).

No matter the emergency situation, the significance of communication should never be underestimated.

In the realm of emergency preparedness, the value of various radio equipment and communication methods are often the subject of intense debate. Even within the handheld radio sub-category, there are thousands of models to choose from. However, communication has a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other gear debates: it takes two to communicate.

If there’s no one to talk to, or the person on the other end can’t receive your call, the quality of your gear becomes irrelevant. Every emergency communication plan must consider this interoperability factor.

So, it’s clear that you need several handheld radios to ensure your family and friends can stay connected during emergencies, and each handheld radio should be able to communicate with as many people as possible. The ubiquitous Baofeng UV-5R (or its sibling, the F8HP) is often the standard choice for an affordable and versatile radio — it’s not a bad option for beginners, but it’s far from the best choice.

If you’re considering buying a handheld radio for the first time, or you already own a few and have decided it’s time to upgrade, you should carefully consider your options. In this article, I’ll introduce some of my favorite radios at different price points for those who are looking for something more sophisticated and powerful than the old UV-5R.

My selection criteria for these recommendations are as follows:

* Availability – Are the radios in stock at retailers where the prepared citizen can purchase them? Are the radios prohibitively expensive? I’ll discuss choices at three price points that should fall within the budgets of every reader.

* Interoperability – Can this radio be used to communicate with other radios of different makes and models, so that you have the opportunity to communicate with the broadest possible set of people?

* Usability – This addresses the learning curve associated with the radio, and whether there needs to be a major support system for users. I’ll be focusing specifically on analog radios and avoiding those primarily or exclusively intended for digital modes of operation (DMR, P25, etc.).

* Durability – How rugged is the radio? Consider factors such as water resistance, drop rating, button durability, antenna connection strength, and general build quality.

* Ecosystem – This covers supporting equipment and compatibility with accessories from other manufacturers.

Starting at the low-end, I recommend the Baofeng UV-9R Plus. Despite being a Baofeng, it’s a good first radio, or a strong consideration as a replacement for your old UV-5R.

The UV-9R Plus is a cost-effective alternative to radios such as the UV-5R, offering the same capabilities but in a rugged package more suitable for hard use in a disaster or civil defense scenario.

The UV-9R Plus can be purchased for only $30 – depending on color – and can be obtained from retailers such as Amazon. For about $50, you can get a package with two batteries, programming cable, shoulder-mounted speaker mic, earpiece, charger, etc.

The UV-9R is an analog VHF/UHF, FM ham radio that is software unlockable to get out of the 2m and 70cm ham bands. As such, you’re able to talk with anyone else using analog FM on or around the 2m and 70cm bands, from other Baofeng users to those running high-end rigs.

From a user perspective, the UV-9R is just another Baofeng, so anyone with experience using a Baofeng will be able to pick it up and go. The menu interface is the same as a UV5R, and it works with the popular Chirp programming software as well.

The UV9R Plus is IP67 rated for dust and water resistance. This means the radio is completely protected from dust and can survive immersion in 1m of water for a short period of time. Dropping this radio in a puddle or using it in a rain or dust storm is no problem.

The radio also claims to be drop-proof. Possibly related to this — and definitely an improvement over a UV-5R — is an extended collar protecting the volume/power knob, helping reduce the likelihood that it gets accidentally turned at a tactically inopportune time. The collar may also protect it from breakage to a degree.

Where this radio shines, even in comparison to the next one that I’ll be discussing, is the screw-down, three-point connector for shoulder mics and push-to-talk (PTT) add-ons. This radio enables you to use tactical accessories without compromising the waterproofing.

The greatest drawback to the UV-9R Plus is that this transceiver is essentially the “end of the line” in terms of where you can go from here. This is a result of the proprietary nature of its pinout connection. While the body is similar in form to, say, a Motorola or Hytera connector, the pinout isn’t compatible. This is a notable difference from the UV-5R, which uses a non-proprietary Kenwood two-pin connector.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t accessorize or run the radio with high-end accessories. This is because multiple vendors, such as Disco32 and Armorwerx provide NATO-spec U94 PTTs with Baofeng Multipin downleads. They can be had in amplified or non-amplified version, depending on whether you’re using a military-grade, low-impedance headset (such as Peltor Comtacs) or using a more budget-friendly, high-impedance rig (such as Howard Leights with a multi-mount microphone). But before you spend hundreds of dollars on adapters and specialized accessories for your Baofeng, consider if that money would be better spent on a more capable radio.

I give the Baofeng UV9R Plus a rating of 7 out of 10. For the price, you really can’t beat it. It makes a much better first option than a Baofeng UV-5R. Even in the most inexpensive package, it comes with a lot of supporting equipment out of the box that even lower-end Yaesu radios (which come in at a slightly higher price point) don’t have.

The only downside really is the proprietary connector, which may make some people think twice, at least if they wanted to work this into a tactical kit.

The Radioddity GS5B may seem like a strange choice for a recommendation at a mid-level price point. Its $109 MSRP puts it in the range where you might want to consider a Yaesu FT-65 or maybe even a Yaesu FT-60. However, for many people, such as those for whom preparedness is about things such as natural disasters or public safety, the GS5B really shines. In fact, my personal radio for my search and rescue kit is a GS5B.

The GS5B is almost always available from retailers such as Amazon and is often on sale for about $85 with Prime shipping.

The GS5B is a dual-band, VHF/UHF radio that’s software unlockable and functions in the MURS and FRS/GMRS bands as well.

The GS5B has its own proprietary programming software, and to be honest, it isn’t the best. However, this is mitigated by the fact that the radio can also be programmed via Bluetooth with a phone app while on the go. Both of these options have some learning curve associated with them, and this may be the weakest point of the radio for many people.

The GS5B is IP56 rated, meaning it’s not entirely dust or water-tight, but is definitely rain-proof and should be good to go for dust in most areas of operation. I’ve personally used this radio for over a year, both as a SAR volunteer and personally. I keep it in my car in Texas heat, take it with me on family trips from the East Coast to the Grand Canyon, and use it during search and rescue operations. I’ve never had an issue with this radio at all.

The GS5B uses a two-pin Kenwood connector just like your old UV-5R does. All your UV-5R accessories should still work with it — all of mine do. If this radio is just a step up from a Baofeng for you while you consider moving on to a higher-end radio, you could buy all the high-end accessories such as PTTs you want right now and leverage any other radio using the Kenwood connector in the future.

The Radioddity GS5B does fairly well in all the evaluation criteria, with adoption perhaps being the lowest score because of lack of Chirp software support. However, it has specific features which make it attractive over other radios in a similar price point, depending on personal use case.

The first is dual monitor combined with dual PTT. This radio can simultaneously receive both the A and B channels you have configured, even if they are in different bands. The dual PTT allows you to talk on either, without having to switch between your A and B channel first (as you’d need to on most other handheld radios). This can also be used to monitor a broadcast channel for news and a group or family communications channel.

The high-visibility color and integrated flashlight make this an excellent choice for use in public safety situations such as search and rescue, hurricane or earthquake preparedness, etc. These features do, however, detract from the value of this radio in a civil defense/minuteman type of use case where concealment may be a necessity.

The Yaesu VX-6R is my personal favorite handheld radio, and the one analog ham radio that I’d really trust my life to. That’s a tall claim, but this is one that has never let me down over many years of frequent use.

All major ham radio stores carry the VX-6R. Unlike its Chinese compatriots, it may not always be readily available on Amazon, though certain accessories may be had from there. Expect to spend approximately $250 on one of these radios.

The VX-6R does a lot out of the box, and far surpasses the other radios that I’ve discussed in terms of information gathering. Its wide-band receiver capabilities enable it to listen in on HF and shortwave transmissions, AM airband traffic, and broadcast radio. However, since it is an FCC-compliant ham radio, it does come locked to the 2m/1.5m/70cm VHF and UHF ham bands.

Unlike the Chinese radios, which often play fast and loose with FCC rules, the VX-6R does require a hardware MARS (Military Auxiliary Radio System) modification to open it up for use on FRS/GMRS and MURS frequencies. This can be purchased as a $35 add-on service from distributors such as Ham Radio Outlet and Gigaparts, or it can be done yourself, if you’re so inclined.

Recently, support for the VX-6R has reached Chirp, so it’s no longer necessary to purchase a third party programmer such the one from RT-Systems, though their programming cable is quite good. The radio doesn’t come with a programming cable.

The requirement of a hardware MARS/CAP mod is probably the biggest hurdle to adoptability of this radio for non-HAM purposes. One must either be comfortable with working on electronics or willing to spend a little extra to purchase the radio from a source that can do the modification on your behalf.

Unlocking Your VX-6R with the MARS Mod

Unlocking the VX-6R is straightforward but does require some basic electronics skills and tools. You will need a soldering iron and soldering wick to perform the operation.

Step 1. Remove the battery and peel back the protective film in the battery compartment to expose the circuit board.

Step 2. Identify the soldered jumpers (4th and 5th from the left) underneath the cutout on the PCB.

Step 3. Use your heated soldering iron and soldering wick to loosen and remove the jumpers, and make sure that everything is cleaned up.

Step 5. Reset the microprocessor by holding down the [mode], [0], and [V/M] buttons simultaneously while powering on the unit.

Step 6. Press the [F] key when prompted to do so.

If you have any pre-existing channel settings, this will wipe them out, so you’ll need to reload them with your programming software. However, at this point in time, you’re good to go and can transmit outside of the amateur radio bands.

Resilience is another place where the Yaesu VX-6R shines. It’s marketed as submersible and has a JIS7 rating that’s roughly equivalent to an IPx7 rating. It can be submerged in about 1m of water for 30 or so minutes without any damage. The waterproofing is bolstered by both a gasket-and-screw system on the accessory jack, as well as a locking battery compartment.

Underneath the battery is a removable waterproof membrane that allows access to the circuit board area necessary for conducting the MARS/CAP mod or for installing expansion modules.

The Yaesu VX-6R has a solid accessory system. Amplified and unamplified PTTs with the waterproof connector can be had from Disco32 or Armorwerx, allowing you to use both high-impedance commercial and low-impedance military headsets with the radio. While this handset’s dimensions are shorter than many of its competitors, including the others covered in this review, there are vendors such as Spectre Gear which make MOLLE-compatible radio pouches specifically for its form factor.

Additionally, while the VX-6R is an analog radio (though it does support the proprietary Wires protocol for talking to Internet-linked radio systems), the same waterproof connection is used by the Motorola/Vertex Standard EVX-S24 digital (DMR) radio. Thus, for groups leveraging Tier 2 DMR to communicate, you can have one gear setup which supports both radios as needed.

With a wide-band receiver, tri-band transmit, good third-party support, and rugged construction, the Yaesu VX-6R is perhaps the ultimate analog radio for the preparedness-minded individual. Perhaps its only drawback is the belt clip, which lacks spring loading and should not be clipped through PALS webbing without a dummy cord.

For those who like quantifiable points of comparison, here’s a breakdown my rating on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the highest rating) for each radio against each criteria:

Communications is key to mission success and survival. Just like firearms, having the best you can afford and will carry and train with regularly is important. The quality, availability of aftermarket accessories, and ease of operation is also a key consideration. But unlike firearms, you can’t make your choice solely based on your own preferences — your radio needs to work with the radios carried by everyone you need to talk to.

While none of these radios are perfect, they each have their strengths, and I own them all for different purposes. The UV-9R is a rugged radio that anyone who has ever used another Baofeng platform will instantly understand, but which will hold up to more abuse than the UV-5R at a similar price point.

The Radioddity GS-5B’s unique features make it an excellent choice for public safety volunteers, and it’s earned a place in my SAR turnout kit. The Yaesu VX-6R’s rugged reliability, wide-band receiver, and capacity for expansion makes it a tool I’d trust my life to.

Regardless of your budget or what you’re preparing for, you should ensure you have multiple methods of communication with as many people as possible. Even if your cell phone is your primary day-to-day comms device, don’t forget that it’s fragile, susceptible to fast battery depletion, and reliant on signal from a network of towers that can be easily disrupted.

A quality handheld radio can communicate directly with your friends and family — no network or monthly payments required — and will be durable enough to withstand a variety of outdoor activities. These radios are my personal recommendations depending on your budget, but that doesn’t mean they’re the last word. I encourage you to use this framework to determine what’s important to you and evaluate your options accordingly.

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Editor’s Note: This article has been modified from its original version for the web.

Our Thoughts

The importance of communication in survival situations cannot be overstated. The author’s emphasis on it as a fundamental element of the tactical triad, along with shooting and moving, sets the tone for the rest of the article.

The author’s analysis of different handheld radios is thorough and insightful. The focus on factors such as availability, interoperability, usability, durability, and ecosystem provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating these devices. This approach is particularly useful for beginners or those looking to upgrade their equipment.

The author’s recommendations are well-reasoned, taking into account various price points and needs. The detailed examination of the Baofeng UV-9R Plus, Radioddity GS5B, and Yaesu VX-6R provides readers with practical options to consider.

The article also underscores the importance of adaptability and compatibility in emergency communication equipment. It’s a crucial reminder that the value of a radio lies not just in its individual features, but also in its ability to connect with others.

Finally, the author’s emphasis on the importance of having multiple methods of communication, including handheld radios, is a valuable takeaway. It serves as a reminder that being prepared is not just about having the right equipment, but also about having a robust and adaptable communication strategy.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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