Raise the Bar on Backcountry Communication with Rocky Talkie 5-Watt Radios
Good communication makes for a good day and safe travel protocol in the backcountry. On the most basic level, good communication is about staying in touch with your ski partner(s) while climbing and skiing. When the terrain splits your group or different paces cause separation, two-way radios let you stay in touch and manage travel.
Whether you’re simply looking to set up a photo or need to share critical terrain and safety beta, two-way radios let you communicate quickly and efficiently in the backcountry. The Rocky Talkie 5-Watt backcountry radios set a high bar for extended range, bomber construction and ease of use.
Rocky Talkie 5-Watt GMRS Radio
The Rocky Talkie 5-Watt radios are purpose-built handheld backcountry radios. They operate on the GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) channels and are built with adventure in mind. They are impact-resistant and waterproof, rated IP67, and submersible to one meter.
The first thing you’ll notice when you grab a Rocky Talkie radio is its solid feel. They are rugged and built for true backcountry use with a simple interface and a full five watts of transmission power for an extended, pro-grade range in the mountains.
The Rocky Talkie 5-watt radio is a big upgrade from standard FRS (Family Radio Service) radios, which are limited to 2 watts of power. The move to GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) allows the bump to five watts and results in a superior range compared with similar FRS radios. The Rocky Talkie 5-watt radios offer performance on par with a professional 5-watt VHF radio.
The Rocky Talkie 5-Watt GMRS radio includes 30 different channels, 22 of which are compatible with FRS radios. It also includes access to 11 weather channels and NOAA weather alerts, plus dual-channel monitoring and transmitting. In addition, its focus on GMRS bandwidth unlocks access to eight repeater channels to relay and further extend its transmission range. Look for repeater options in your area.
What is a GMRS Radio?
Without getting too technical, a radio’s transmission power is directly related to its wattage rating. Recent changes in FCC regulations have allowed significant improvements in the wattage of non-commercial handheld two-way radios. Once relegated to under two watts of transmission power (basic consumer-grade FRS radios), GMRS radios, like the Rocky Talkie 5-Watt model, boost backcountry communication to offer pro-level comms in mountainous terrain. The GMRS system uses channels in the 462 MHz and 467 MHz frequency bands. GMRS radios are also compatible with some channels on lower-powered FRS radios, so you can mix and match radios from other brands.
The FCC does require a license for GMRS radios. But it only costs $35, doesn’t require a test, lasts 10 years and covers your entire immediate family. Read about the GMRS radio license process.
Built for Adventure
Beyond its rugged, waterproof build, the Rocky Talkie 5-Watt radio is thoughtfully designed for backcountry use. Details like a burly clip system, safety leash and carabiner attachment options are clearly designed for backcountry skiing, climbing and mountaineering. The radio interface is simple, without too many buttons or button sequences to keep straight for standard communication needs.
In addition, Rocky Talkie offers a couple of key accessories to dial in the radios to your needs, including a remote mic and a longer antenna. The remote mic is especially handy for backcountry skiing as you can zip the radio into a pocket on your backpack and clip the mic to your shoulder strap. The remote mic setup lets you make or respond to radio calls without digging for the radio or fumbling with buttons. The extended-length antenna boosts your range in mountainous terrain.
Pro-Grade, Reliable Radio Comms
The Rocky Talkie 5-watt radio’s number one advantage is its 5-watt power. Although they may look like small FRS radios, they offer professional-grade communication on all levels. Five watts is the standard for professional VHF radios and allows for clear communications over long distances.
The usable range for the Rocky Talkie 5-Watt is several miles at a minimum and up to more than 10 miles, given an ideal line of sight scenario in the high alpine. And we are talking clear, crisp comms, not broken static-filled garble. The Rocky Talkie 5-Watt has performed as well as my 5-watt Icom VHF radio in the field.
The addition of the remote mic sets you up with convenient access and secure storage of the radio. You are way more likely to use your radio if it is easily accessible, and it doesn’t get much easier than a remote mic clipped to your shoulder strap.
Do yourself and your ski partners a favor; step up to the Rocky Talkie 5-Watt radio for your backcountry ski radio needs. Good communication with your ski partners makes for a safer backcountry experience.
Check the availability of Rocky Talkie 5-Watt backcountry radios – $165
Read about designated radio channels for backcountry zones in Colorado, Utah and Washington
See what else we carry on our ski packs – read our backcountry ski packing list article
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