Following is a copy of e-mails between some Placentia, Calif., RACES members dated July 18, 2017
I purchased a Baofeng about a year ago when my sister purchased one as her first ham radio. I purchased one too. My first impression is this is an illegal radio for FRS. I think FCC requirements for FRS requires a definite antenna dimension and only .5 watt transmit power.
“…the FCC, doesn’t really care all that much, any more, about what happens on the FRS and GMRS frequencies, and as long as you don’t do anything too egregious, they may be content to ignore you.” (http://codegreenprep.com/2013/04/the-best-radio-for-frsgmrs/)
But, for our purpose, using them for RACES operators and CERT groups in emergencies seems to be a clever solution. I love the high power and being able to screw in a much better antenna. I want successful performance from a radio (See also: Rat Tail Tiger Counterpoise below).
I think a good emergency radio should be programmed in the field. The Baofeng is darn near difficult to program without a computer. The price is terrific. E-ham gives an overall score of 3.9 for all the models combined. The most recent reviews show the radio to be improving. “The older ones aren’t as good with desense and intermod, but the triple powers are quite a bit cleaner. The latest versions bring reports of “broadcast quality”.
I am somewhat surprised that Newegg is selling the model you are thinking of buying. Their description is way better than Amazon:
The GT-3TP Mark-III is upgraded version of GT-3 with Tri-Power (8W/4W/1W). The 23CM High Gain Antenna allows GT-3TP to transmit in 11KM. It also comes with upgraded frame material, buttons and knob, Antenna Interface, Radio Frequency IC, Frequency-Modulated Receiver Chip, Power Amplifier IC, etc.UPGRADE* Tri-Power: High / Med / Low Power (8W/4W/1W)* 23CM High Gain Antenna: allows GT-3TP to transmit in 11KM* Big buttons & knob: GT-3TP has built in PTT key, CALL key, and MONI key on the left side of the radio* Antenna Interface: Fine copper-made antenna connector outperforms other antenna connectors and improves communication.* Radio Frequency IC: Upgrade SQ to enhance the anti-interference ability* RDA1846S add an new tail tone elimination function, when transmit and receive signal between 50Hz with 55H* Improve the receiver AGV switching noise when signal strength changes severe* Frequency-Modulated Receiver Chip: the RDA5802N has a powerful low-IF digital audio processor, this make it have optimum sound quality with varying reception conditions* Power Amplifier IC: Low crossover distortion, Low quiescent circuit current* LED Flashlight: high lumens degrees* Shell: Upgrade Dustproof, waterproof and drop resistance abilitySPECIFICATION* Mode: Simplex or semi-duplex* Memory channels: Up to 128 channels* Frequency stability: 2.5ppm* Antenna impedance: 50 ohm* Voltage: Lithium-Ion 7.4V/1800mAh* Squelch adjustable from 0 to 9PACKAGE1x GT-3TP Mark III1x 7.4V 1800mAh Li-ion Battery1x 23CM Antenna1x Car Charger1x Belt Clip1x User Manual1x Adapter1x Desktop Charger1x Headset
When I purchased my Baofeng, I specified their largest battery capacity. I recommend you do the same. Because RACES operators need to be able to support CERT, they all should have a good FRS radio. This radio serves both RACES and FRS needs in one package. I would definitely carry this as my secondary radio in an emergency.
Summary: I think the radio is a good purchase for the price.
By the way, I found out that you can attach a Rat Tail Tiger Counterpoise to most HT radios including the Baofeng and improve its performance: https://everydayready.wordpress.com/2016/04/07/diy-rat-tail-for-the-baofeng-radios/