Maine

Icy roads and cold temps in the NMW. But it was nice getting away for a couple of days.

 

I am in need of a NMW trip.

 

Does anyone have a Diono carseat I could check out in person, in their 3rd gen DC? I would love to just buy one and assume it would be perfect based on reviews, but if the seat doesn't work, I am unsure that my Tacoma will make it through the rear facing years. Willing to meet up anywhere in Maine and will provide beer as compensation for your time.

 

Spotted at Hannys last night in Brunswick. I feel like the owner is on here, but cant recall who

 

Winter camping is not without its challenges. But good to get out nonetheless

Saw a total of five moose, and a huge bald eagle.




Cleaning all the ice out from inside the tires before it freezes totally solid

 

I am planning to do studded tires after the ice this winter and my road and driveway are very hilly. My wife's FWD van gets out of the driveway way easier. For those on 285/70/17 for AT/MTs, did you go to a skinnier studded tire? I do have about 400#s in the back of my truck.

 

Smaller tires give you more psi pressure.
You need to make a decision if you want to float or dig.

 

https://twitter.com/usgs/status/1483839182313340939?s=21

 

Just out here making sure I put enough salt on my taco ‍

 

And how did that turn out?

 

Extra salty

 

Ya, we all need seasonal Salt Life stickers on our trucks!

 

I swear I can hear my truck rusting!

It needs a wash bad! I hope the fluid film is doing it's thing.

 

I have been contemplating upgrading my communications ability for when I am in the NMW (and other off-grid areas in Maine). I currently have a couple of usable FRS walkie talkies. They have been adequate for close vehicle-to-vehicle comms and for person-to-person while hunting/hiking.

I "think" my needs are:

1. same as above, comms with people in my immediate group.
2. Comms with people I might meet up with in the back country. If we don't have the same radios, can we still talk?
3. Ability to communicate at a further range than FRS. Nothing dramatic, but longer is better, right?
4. Still want flexibility of handheld for out-of-vehicle use.
5. Don't think I want to get into much programming. Radios should be usable as purchased.
6. Possible emergency comms.
7. I don't want to go the HAM route.
8. USB charging would be a plus.

So, FRS, GMRS, or MURS? From what I have read they all have their own advantages and disadvantages. What are your experiences? Do you have any recommendations for make and model? I have read a few reviews of radios, and watched a few videos. I trust and respect what my fellow Mainers think more than some of these other reviews. I really appreciate and real-world advice you can give me!

 

Come on! I know some of you are using more than 2 cans and a piece of string!

 

I have a few of the handhelds I picked up at Cabelas a bunch of years ago.

 

We had access to 4 of these on a moose hunt several years back. They worked great. I think we were only a mile or two apart though. I considered buying 2. I called and spoke with someone and they recommended UHF for use in heavily forested areas as it penetrates better than VHF. Now you've got me thinking again. I'm not sure of the compatibility with other radios. Checks off a few boxes.

https://www.twowayradiocenter.com/vertex-standard-vx-261/

I currently use (for emergencies) a handheld CB with an extendable antenna.

 

Myself and @ME OFF Rd use GMRS in our trucks. We like the range and the clarity. We do also have a few cheaper handheld units from the big box stores that we can loan out to others who may not have radios. Those work well with FRS/GMRS compatibility on certain channels. But the handhelds obviously have much less power output, so less range.

 

I thin kyou showed me before, but I can't remember. What make and model? I may consider an in-truck(?) unit.

 

The one I have is a no-name knock off that required some programming to get the GMRS channels in. I have heard good things about the dedicated GMRS units from Midland though.