rowdyray277

also for SHTF comms one needs to have batteries that can be portable for the radios and solar rechargeable .

https://www.amazon.com/LiFePO4-Battery-Miady-Rechargeable-Maintenance-free/dp/B07X5G2FFW/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=12V+8Ah+Deep+Cycle+LiFePO4+Battery%2C+2000+Cycles+Miady+LFP8AH+Rechargeable+Battery%2C+Maintenance-Free+Battery+for+Fios%2C+Power+Wheels%2C+Solar+System%2C+UPS+and+More&qid=1605554161&sr=8-1

I will be invested in this type, they are very powerful for the size, less weight than lead acid and can be recharged many times.

Set them up in ammo cans as portable power supplies and you can power/recharge many electronic items.

The encrypted DoD MARS stuff is useless to other HAM operator's because few will have the equipment to talk back to you. 

I talk all over the World on 100 Watts and Wire.  Comms in SHTF will likely be without constant power, so being able to use your radio in the field under other than sitting in your shack conditions will be more important skills to have IMHO.

Most 3pers say they have Ham radios in their closet and will bring them out when its time.  Well 2 things, 1) its TIME !   2) bringing them out when your already under duress is way too late.  Learn hot to use your radios now.  Establish local networks now.

https://www.youtube.com/user/hoshnasi

https://www.youtube.com/user/EricHofer1004

https://www.youtube.com/user/davecasler

Those are my favorite channels to learn from.

 Start by getting your Technician License, this will give you VHF/UHF privilege's and you can connect by radio  within a 50 mile radius using the repeater network in your area.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Authentic-N9TAX-VHF-UHF-Slim-Jim-J-Pole-Dual-Band-2m-70cm-Antenna-jpole/222236729091?hash=item33be575f03:g:OM0AAOSw~gRVtuLk

this is great antenna for a base unit or filed comms, use it with your Baofeng until you get a better radio.