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Review on Dakota Alert M538-HT MURS Wireless VHF Transceiver: License Free Handheld 2-Way Radio for Multi Use Radio Service (MURS) by Kenny Hrdlicka

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Feedback from a longtime contact

I'm an experienced radio operator. I have been using CB for 45 years, ham radio for 19 years and lead a radio disaster response team. I wanted to see if it's worth going to MURS as a backup frequency based on how well it correlates with the MW band. That's why I started the Dakota Alert Radio. For €70 you can't go wrong. This gave me the 2 mile range between wearables that he advertises. There's no background noise, so the sound is crystal clear with no distractions. The next step is a Motorola or Kenwood radio (professional VHF). It will cost you around $200 or more (depending on the number of channels it has). I've already bought one of these and immediately ordered a second one. The benefit of more expensive radios for me is that the antenna is detachable and I can use an SMA adapter to connect to the MURS bottom plate for longer distances. I can also program custom frequencies. This Dakota Alert will NOT do that. If you also want to use it in harsh environments, you should consider a professional radio. From what I've found so far, the Dakota Alert has the same transmission capabilities as a high-end radio. Both have an output of 2 watts. Finally, the range of the MURS radio appears to be on par with a good portable CB like the Midland 75-822. Buy a Rattail and increase the range of this radio.

Pros
  • CB and radio equipment
Cons
  • Can't remember