[elpinta]

Only issue is that if something ‘big’ happens, the air waves are off-limit to hams as well (perhaps some RACES traffic, that is all).
That said, one could still remain on the air regardless.

[elpinta]

Some antenna info here (beyond VHF/UHF range):
http://www.w0ipl.net/ECom/NVIS/nvis.htm

Radios start at about $100 (VHF/UHF handhelds) or >$500 for HF (see antenna info above).

[hoosierham]

One of the first thing the Nazis did was collect all the ham radios(and many hams along with them);FDR's U.S. only ordered hams silent and encouraged the sale or donation of late model commercial items to the gov't.I think the Brits collected and warehoused their hams' gear.

Don't expect the internet to stay up and open in case of obama declaring an emergency .

The laws have long allowed for use of any radio regardless of license if necessary to preserve life and property(like a sinking ship)but that doesn't mean they won't confiscate the "illegal" radio afterwards;as in the case of a California ham who call for help on a police channel using his modified 2 meter radio.

But for people who store thousands of dollars of emergency rations,and survival gear,spending another $1000 or less on any of several hf/vhf/uhf transceivers with general coverage receivers might be prudent.

Only independent units can be counted on if through gov't or other calamities the networks are shut down.That means independent power ,too.

[GOPJ]

Only issue is that if something ‘big’ happens, the air waves are off-limit to hams as well (perhaps some RACES traffic...

I don't understand. What would be considered "big"... What does RACES stand for?

[steve86]

Only issue is that if something ‘big’ happens, the air waves are off-limit to hams as well (perhaps some RACES traffic, that is all). That said, one could still remain on the air regardless.

I have considered purchasing a used 2M portable to use (for transmitting) ONLY during emergencies (unlicensed). Who cares if I have an FCC license if WW3 or CW2 is going on? Especially if a totalitarian government is making the rules! Good thing about analog radio -- there is no IP/ethernet address to trace, and if you are on the move, no usable triangulation.

[Clinging Bitterly]

Two things:

In the event TSHTF, I’m not going to care so much about government blackouts or who’s licensed. What I do will be MY decision based on the particular circumstances.

That said, operator skill is a good thing to have and you get that from experience. So, I’d advise anyone who has the interest, get licensed and operate legally, gain the experience.