PNW 2020 Summer BDR Run - WA

Nice! Might have to pick that up!

Edit - ordered

 

Awesome. Yeah I can coordinate more on this in the next week or so. Need to figure out if anything is shifting around with work but I should be good. Will check on exact dates. I am in Lake Stevens now so may wait until you guys get a bit further north, but we’ll see. Thanks for the information everyone!

 

Hola Comrade,

The map is a Google image I used, but I think this is fairly accurate to the actual trail as all other maps I've seen follow the same route. This one in particular was the best visual representation of the different sections.

That said, just to repeat the OP, I haven't been. I'll be picking up the Butler map here soon. And, you can download GPS maps. I haven't picked out any specific spots to camp, but there has been some feedback on potential areas to skip via jumping on the highway. We've still got some time to figure the particulars out, and as always, certainly open to suggestions.

Want this to be a fun run for all us taco peeps.

 

I ordered one too

 

Are you guys just using the Baofengs or are you all running CB now days? I would be interested in getting CB as I mentioned in other thread.

I have some project deadlines in July that are kind of weighing down on my decisiveness. Let me know if you make some dates for certain areas. We are pretty certain we will join in the later half being in Lake Stevens. I will check out that map too. Seems like a good idea. I also paid for Gaia maps
Offline so I may consider trying to download a few areas depending as well. Haven’t had the chance to use it at all yet though lol.

 

Radio wise I have both

 

CB's are really handy while driving and your mic is mounted close to you. I don't like having to keep picking up my Baofeng while driving so if I'm with a group that are using them I have the radio in a chest rig and a lapel mic on the c-rig strap. That's kind of nice because when you're in and out of your vehicle that radio is always on you. I'm actually starting to prefer that now.

never will get rid of CB though. Good info from truckers when traffic suddenly stops and they tell you what lane you're gonna want to be in.

 

That’s one thing I am thinking. Good for long travels and areas I don’t know well. A bit worried about distance when it comes to the Baofengs when I am by myself. Would like to have to most comms possible when it comes to ever getting stranded. Obviously hopefully that never happens but better safe than sorry.

Nice. I got the car jack battery that you recommended last time we were out. The other adapter is still in my “Save for later” checkout on Amazon with 50 other items lol.

What CB would you guys recommend if I was to go for it?

 

I have two Baofengs (no CB), which I'm more than happy to lend out the second one out during the trip. Comms make such a difference on the trail instead of constantly stopping and getting out. July 3rd -13th - updated the OP.

We'd love to have you join. The more the merrier!

 

I have a baofeng and might pick up a couple more.

 

dates marked in my calendar. so we are doing north to south on the trail?

 

Righteous. Yes, start up north and work our way down to the WA/OR border.

 

What to look for when buying a Baofeng?

 

any of them will do but you can get the Mirkit edition on Amazon and they put out an extra watt of transmit power. I emailed them and they claim Baofeng gives them special programming.

But I think a lot of people would say an upgraded antenna would do you better than extra TX power. But you can set TX power to low, mid, high.

can't go wrong with this and an extended battery and battery eliminator for in the truck.
https://www.amazon.com/BaoFeng-Amat...keywords=baofeng+mirkit&qid=1588033955&sr=8-3

Or just get the UV-5R if you're on a budget. Get 10 of them LOL

 

I was reading somewhere that output power would have to be quadrupled to increase/double the range so an extra watt or 2 is probably negligible.

My vote is for UV-5R with an upgraded antenna. Like this

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0772FYKK8/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_hJ4PEb5VVW2BJ

 

Thanks. Went with @JDAM ’s recommendation.

 

So someone on Facebook is talking about going on the BDR and people are recommending chainsaws since some roads might not be clear of snow till late July, so might be something to keep in mind for section 4 with a 6,000ft elevation

 

I have an electric chainsaw that runs off the outlet in the bed. Unless there is a behemoth across the road we should be good.

 

I’ve heard that suggestion a few times. I always have an axe, but will bring a CS as well.

Who knows, if we have to fight through a zombie hoard and run out of bullets, Hollywood has proven a CS is an effective alternative.

 

I have one but it’s not quite even draw for the saw to run from the bed and stops after a moment. What’s the output on your saw?