Baofeng UV-5R HT - thoughts?

[davet753]

Originally Posted by ChrisW6ATV

As long as there are still good brands of ham radio equipment available, from companies that support radio activities, hamfests, and DXpeditions, I will stay away from the cheap Chinese stuff. The ONLY thing they have to recommend them is that they are CHEAP, no other reason at all. My ham radio hobby is worth more to me than needing to own a $40 transceiver.

You are right, other than price there is no other reason to buy a Baeofeng.

However, a big $ investment for a radio hinders people from getting into the hobby, and if more folks don't start getting active in ham radio, the hobby as we know it today is going to be in big trouble. I know clubs who buy the Baofengs by the case and sell to new licensees at (or below) cost just to get them on the air. The newbies that get them invariably end up purchasing a Yaesu, Icom, or Kenwood later on as they grow into the hobby.

I do agree with your point about buying from companies who support the hobby. I own a Yaesu FT450D HF rig, Yaesu FTM400D 2 meter Fusion rig, and a Yaesu VX8DR HT, and a Yaesu 2900 in one of my cars. If Yaesu is ticked off at me for owning a $35 Baeofeng after spending what I've spent on Yaesu gear, I can't help it