Two-way radios are now a must-have accessory for most hunting professionals. To such an extent, that there is now an impressive range of walkie talkies on the market, designed and built exclusively for this outdoor sport.
And, we’re not just talking about radios adorned in camouflage. We’re talking about the addition of emergency features for hunters, extended ranges, weather-resistant exteriors, and hands-free features for the ultimate hunting experience.
With all of these factors to consider when picking your perfect two-way radio, we’ve searched out the best hunting radios on the market and broken them down into their pros, cons, and must-know specifications to make your job of picking out your favorite that little bit easier.
Best Walkie Talkies For Hunting
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Best For Higher Budgets
1Motorola MS350R 2-Way Hunting Walkie Talkie
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Best For Low Budgets
3Retevis H-777 Long Range Hunting Walkie Talkie
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1. Motorola MS350R 2-Way Hunting Walkie Talkie
- Up to a 35-mile range
- Receives NOA weather alerts
- Silent vibrating ringer
- 22 channels and 8 repeater channels
As one of the biggest brands in the industry, Motorola’s MS350R 2-Way Radio is one of the best on the market.
The radio’s durable design and tech-savvy features mean it can both withstand harsh environments and it can be relied on in remote locations. It’s also light enough to carry around without feeling the burden of it in your backpack, or on the handy belt clip that comes with it.
Receiving both FRS and GMRS frequencies, and with 121 privacy codes to choose from, you should have no problem keeping in contact with your group, and with little interference from outsiders.
Supporting both rechargeable NiMH batteries and alkaline AA batteries, this guy will never let you down while you’re out adventuring, and its handy vibrate feature allows you to silence the radio when you need it.
The one drawback to this two-way radio that must be mentioned is that it is not completely waterproof. So, while it will withstand a bit of light rain, it should never be submerged in water.
Specifications
Pros
- USB and battery charging options
- Silent ringing options for reduced noise interference
- Hands-free capabilities
- 121 privacy codes
Cons
- Only water-resistant, not waterproof
- Belt clip could be more durable
2. Midland GXT1000VP4 Hunting Walkie Talkie
- NOAA Weather Scan
- Channel scan feature
- CTCSS/DCS privacy codes
The GTX1000VP4 is a good all-around walkie talkie with an impressive range. These radios can reach up to 36 miles when used at maximum power, which may be too much for general purposes, but can definitely come in handy during emergencies. Other features include NOAA weather scanning capabilities, a channel scanner, and over 140 different privacy codes.
This is a great tool to bring along when hunting with a partner or a small group. However, you may want to get a bigger battery or bring a few spares. The radio’s strong output heavily consumes battery power.
Specifications
Pros
- Great max range
- High channel security
- Convenient weather scanner
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not the best out-of-the-box battery
3. Retevis H-777 Long Range Hunting Walkie Talkie
- Privacy codes available
- Supports up to 16 channels
- Emergency alarm feature
- Built-in flashlight
Sitting happily at the affordable end of the market, Retevis offers newbies the chance to dip their toes into the world of walkie talkies. Despite its cost advantages, the Retevis H-777 still offers up a myriad of perks that any two-way radio user is looking out for.
Featuring 16 channels, this compact and lightweight walkie talkie uses a CTCSS and DCS function that helps to reduce any interference on the channel, improving the connection considerably,
As well as being able to clip this radio onto your belt, this gadget comes with a handy earpiece so you can enjoy the hands-free experience while you’re on the go.
An added bonus is the built-in LED flashlight safety feature, that is bound to come in handy if you ever find yourself staying out after sundown. This, along with the emergency alarm will make sure you’re always safe while out on the field.
Specifications
Pros
- Supports USB charging
- Long-range in dense areas
- Choose from high and low power modes to save energy
- Belt clip included for easy transportation
Cons
- Only partially waterproof
- Coverage is known to be poor indoors
4. Cobra MR HH450 Handheld VHF Hunting Walkie Talkie
- Camo design
- Automatic replay feature
- Access to NOAA weather alerts
- Two power modes to conserve energy
With years of experience in the industry, Cobra knows a thing or two about designing effective two-way radios for a range of sports and activities.
All of their radios, including the Cobra MR HH450 Handheld VHF Radio, are thoughtfully designed to provide a durable and practical product.
Along with access to a number of different channels, the NOAA weather alerts and Channel 16 for emergencies, this clever radio is fully water resistance, will automatically replay the last 20 seconds of any missed communications, has an in-built silent operation setting and even floats on the top of the water so you don’t have to worry about losing it in rivers.
Specifications
Pros
- Fully water-resistant
- Silent mode available
- Supports both rechargeable lithium batteries and AA batteries.
- Floats on the surface of the water
Cons
- No headset so must be operated manually
5. Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Hunting Walkie Talkie
- 22 FRS/GMRS channels
- 121 privacy codes
- 11 NOA weather channels
- 35-mile range
If you’re heading off on an adventure into the great outdoors, then you won’t find a better buddy than the Motorola Talkabout T465 Two-Way Radio.
With access to 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, users actually have the choice of more than 2,600 combination codes. It’s never been easier to find a channel with little to no interference!
Safety features on this radio are unparalleled. Users will feel at ease with the automatic weather alerts, built-in LED light and the emergency alert button that sends a signal out to nearby radio users if you’re in trouble.
Other features that make this gadget one of our top picks include the hands-free voice activation capabilities, vibrating alert option, and the choice of a rechargeable NiMH battery or AA batteries when on the go.
And, if you’re in need of a recharge while you’re out and about, you’ll find two micro-USB chargers to plug into your car.
Specifications
Pros
- Dual power capabilities with reusable batteries and USB charger
- Huge range in the great outdoors
- Voice-activation capability
- Built-in flashlight for use in the dark
Cons
- Very limited range in urban areas
6. BaoFeng BF-888S Hunting Walkie Talkie
- 6-km range
- USB desktop charger
- VOX function
- FRS compatible
The long battery life of BaoFeng BF-888S makes it the best choice for camping. On standby, it can last up to 4 days. Even on constant use, it has enough power for a full day’s service. Moreover, it has a battery save function and a low voltage alert that alerts you about low battery.
Other features that make this ideal for camping are its emergency alarm function, built-in flashlight, VOX function, and weatherproof case. When it comes to durability, the BF-888S delivers as well. It will still work even if gets accidentally dropped from a 4-feet height. The only downside to this model is that it doesn’t come pre-programmed for FRS. You’d have to program it via your computer to avoid interference with local law enforcement.
Specifications
Pros
- Durable construction withstands accidental drops
- Built-in emergency flashlight
- Outstanding sound quality
- Long battery life
Cons
- Layout of control buttons takes getting used to
- Long antenna gets in the way
Hunting Walkie Talkie Buying Guide
Weight and Size
When you’re carrying everything you need on your back for hunting, from your rifle to your food supplies, you don’t want your walkie talkie to add unnecessary weight.
It’s easy to find reliable, lightweight, and compact walkie talkie units that are very affordable, but you may find that these are not as durable as the slightly more heavyweight gadgets. Bulkier walkie talkies will cost a little more, but will suit hunting experts and will see them through very many seasons.
Features
There’s so much to consider when you’re buying a walkie talkie, from the all-important range to how weatherproof the radio is. Below, we discuss everything you need to know to make the right decision for your hunting needs.
Range
When it comes to walkie talkies, the range is perhaps the most important thing to bear in mind, as it determines the maximum distance between which radios can transmit and receive communications.
While all radios will have a maximum range, you have to consider the terrain of where you’re hunting as large hills and dense forests can all interfere with your radio signal. If you’re out hunting in the sticks, you’re going to want to invest in a walkie talkie that can tackle these large obstacles with an impressive range.
You’ll also find that in a built-up urban environment, the range will drop considerably low due to the many barriers it must transmit through.
Generally, the range of FRS radios maxes out at around 7 miles, which means you’ll probably want to go for a GMRS radio for serious hunting. The most powerful of these can reach a range of up to 50 miles. For such products, make sure you check our best long range walkie talkie reviews.
As a general rule of thumb, always choose a walkie talkie that is over and above the range that you’ll need. This allows it to account for any interference that might appear.
Batteries and battery life
Walkie talkies eat up a lot of power while you’re out on the field, so we’d always recommend a unit with a powerful battery when you’re hunting.
2 way radios for hunting usually come with several different battery options, so you can charge up on the go, in your car, or at home. Some simply require standard AA batteries, so it’s a good idea to always have a few spares on your person.
Other radios feature a USB port and can be charged in vehicles or connected to solar chargers, while some of the more expensive models come with rechargeable batteries and useful charging docks.
If you opt for a walkie talkie with rechargeable batteries, you’ll have the choice of NiMH or NiCd batteries. While both are solid options, NiMH batteries are considered superior as they operate at a wider temperature range and usually last longer after a full charge.
Headset
Imagine spending all morning lining up that perfect shot for somebody to radio in and scare off your prey. Luckily, this is easily avoidable thanks to handy headsets that hookup to your walkie talkie.
Not only do headsets help avoid noise interference, but they lend themselves to hands-free capabilities too.
Depending on the model, you can choose from wireless Bluetooth headsets or slightly more affordable headsets that hook up to the walkie talkie with a wire.
NOAA Weather Alerts
As a primarily outdoor sport, it’s always good to stay up-to-date with the weather forecast while you’re hunting.
Nowadays, you can find a selection of two-way radios on the market that constantly scan the NOAA channels and will send you an alert if there is anything coming your way like a wildfire, landslip, or storm.
Some will also let you tune into the weather channel, so you can get a brief overview of what the day’s looking like. Weather radios, in general, are very important parts of warning systems for emergencies and can be a good additional tool for a hunting trip.
Weatherproof
Walkie talkies are exposed to all kinds of weather during their lifetime, so it’s important that they’re weather-resistant to a certain degree.
Being weatherproof isn’t just about being water-resistant. It also includes the ability for the radio to operate in extreme temperatures, whether it be a swelteringly hot summer’s day or sub-zero winter night.
Ideally, you’ll want to get a completely waterproof two-way radio. These can experience heavy rain and can even be submerged in water for 30-minutes before they start to show signs of damage.
The temperature range that the radio can withstand is also extremely important to consider. The last thing you want is a walkie talkie to stop working in the freezing cold while you’re in the middle of nowhere. Of course, the ideal temperature range for you depends entirely on where you’ll be hunting.
Channels and Privacy Codes
Whether your walkie talkies have FRS or GMRS frequencies, the standard number of channels on a two-way radio is 22. This includes access to 7 shared FRS/GMRS channels, 8 General Mobile Radio Service channels, and 7 Family Radio Service channels.
All of these channels are available to the general public, and using them may result in interference from other hunters in the area.
If you’re looking to communicate privately with your group, you’ll need to invest in a walkie talkie that supports private codes. Privacy codes help to filter out broadcasts from other radio users.
This means that your group can share a channel and code combination, that can only be accessed by those with these exact sets of numbers. Please note that this does not guarantee privacy. Should someone just happen to be tuned into your channel with their privacy code feature, they may still be able to hear your transmissions.
Some two-way radios have more than 100 privacy codes, which, when combined with channels can result in thousands of possible combinations. These are great options for hunters at work in busier locations.
If you are going to be using GMRS channels, you must acquire a license from the FCC.
Voice Activated Transmission (VOX)
High-tech two-way radios often come with a handy little feature that is also known as VOX. This allows you to use your radio handsfree by activating the microphone at all times, instead of having to push a button-down for the same result.
When the microphone picks up your voice, it will automatically begin to transmit. It will stop broadcasting once you’ve stopped speaking.
Most models that feature VOX, also come with a headset.
Emergency Features
When you’re out hunting in no man’s land, it’s a good idea to always prepare for the worst, and have an emergency plan in place.
Your emergency radio is a pretty useful piece of equipment when it comes to this.
If you find yourself in a situation where you require immediate help, some radios have an Emergency Alert function that sends an alert signal to other radios in your group.
Some models even go the extra mile and, when the alarm is sounded, send out a bright beacon that flashes SOS in morse code or sends out a high-pitched alarm signal.
Other beneficial features include a built-in flashlight that comes in handy at night or in low-light conditions.
Pricing Range
A good walkie talkie isn’t something that you want to skimp on when it comes to hunting. Sometimes paying that extra $50 for a durable and reliable radio with emergency features and a larger range can be more than worth it. You can expect to pay hundreds of dollars for the top of the range walkie talkies.
You will still find walkie talkies at the lower end of the budget for under $100 though these may not have as many features as you would like as a hunting professional.
Our Verdict
Deciding which two-way radio is the best for your hunting needs is a decision that should be taken seriously. After all, this isn’t just about communicating clearly with the rest of your group, but it’s also a way to keep you safe if an emergency situation should arise.
Hopefully, this extensive buying guide and review of the best walkie talkies for hunting will give you a good idea of what you can get from a gadget at different ends of the pricing scale. Whether you’re looking for a two-way radio with the largest range, most weather resistant features, or longest battery life, you’ll find something for your liking in this list.
