HAM Help!

Hey guys! I have an upcoming trip and I have been trying to figure out a way to upgrade my HAM reception (mostly 2-way comm is used) without breaking the bank.

I am using a Baofeng Handheld with an upgraded antenna, but it still lacks range. I have looked at this alternative: https://www.ebay.com/itm/NAGOYA-UT1...300198?hash=item2336720fe6:g:1Q4AAOSwPhdVRBwR but am looking for other suggestions. One thing to note is that I am not looking to purchase a huge HAM radio - Really want to keep the setup easy and clean.

I know that the best surface to mount on is a roof, as it is a large grounding plane. Although, does anyone have experience mounting directly on a bumper? I have an ARB bumper with antenna tabs on the front and would love to utilize the passenger side one so I don't have to remove the antenna from my roof before it gets ripped off on trees.

Any suggestions and/or parts recommendations is appreciated! PFA

 

Yes. It sucks. Unless you're 1000' feet from who you're wanting to talk to, I'd avoid mounting it there.

Mag-mount and a 2m/70cm antenna coupled with the Baofung would be my suggestion.

Can't offer any reasonally prices items. When I went that route is was fairly expensive.

 

I have my antenna mounted on a ditch light bracket. It works great.

I think using the tab on your bumper would work ok. Not as good as the roof or hood area but better than a magmount.