Everyone please understands that getting the FCC license for any GMRS radio does ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to increase the range of the radio. The license is a piece of paper so the FCC may track who is using GMRS frequencies, nothing more. They used to do the same for CB users in the 70's. They do not track FRS freqs because of the low output power of FRS radios. Range is affected by output power of the radio but mostly by obstacles between you and the other radio. Trees, walls, buildings, hills, etc. reduce the range considerably. A true test of range is on open water or unobstructed Line-Of-Sight from one hilltop to another. (Not everyone has a boat) Buy three different sets from different brands and try them near a lake to test, return the ones that are not to your liking.
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| Since I already owned a cheaper pair of two way radios, I had a hard time justifying the purchase of these. But the $25 rebates convinced me that this was the time to do it. I have used my older ones while working on the house. In my case, I was on the roof and just wanted to be in contact with someone in case I needed help. Have also used them when traveling as a group, staying in contact with someone in a car ahead and perhaps clarifying directions or upcoming turns, etc. Have also used them while shopping at the mall. I anticipate using the T-6300 for the same things as well as staying in touch with the shore while kayaking. One of the features which was also a selling point was the inclusion of the weather channel. I could have lived without the clock and stop watch functions (since I have them on my watch). I would like to have had the added features of the T6320, but when would I really need an altimeter and barometer? The compass would have been useful though. Regarding the 6310 with its FM radio, I really would not want to be using up my batteries if I were on an extended hiking trip. The perfect combination for me would be to include the compass and drop the stopwatch. However I think I will be pretty happy with my new units and even happier when the rebate checks come in. Trying to figure out how to operate all of the features does seem a little formidable, initially, but it gets easier as you practice. It does have some great features such as the vibrating alert, changes in call tones, voice activation etc. I am a little nervous depending upon the built in swivel beltclip but for relatively passive activities like going to the mall it should be fine. I am having a hard time finding a holster for it probably because Motorola felt there was no need to supply one since it comes with the built in detachable clip. They do make a holster which also is an armband holder, but it is a little pricey. Regarding the reception, I have not found them to be any stronger than my older units but I have not had the opportunity to test them very much yet. All in all, I think it is an excellent unit. It looks nice, has a lot of features, is ergonomically designed, and has several accessories. I think my favorite will the the headset with microphone which can be used with the voice activation feature.
Overall it was the features, rebates and Motorola reputation that led me to buy this unit. |
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