As tenkara anglers, we rely on a wide variety of outdoor gear. Some of it is specific to our fishing, like our rod, lines, and flies; some of it is more general outdoor use, like jackets, stoves, and sleeping bags. A final category that we don’t discuss as much we should, is safety.
One of the best ways to keep safe is to maintain situational awareness of your environment. While a lot of us have gotten very comfortable with the digitally connected life style, there are times and places even now where data won’t reach you. This is why its a good idea to keep an “old fashioned” radio in your gear.
In situations where you don’t have data signal, you can often still receive radio signal. For daily use, it will provide entertainment in camp, on stream while making lunch, or chilling out around the fire. In an emergency, it will deliver critical information like severe weather alerts, fire warnings and evacuation notices. Keeping informed with accurate, timely information is a fundamental part of staying safe outdoors.
I’m not “radio expert” or HAM operator. This means I’m looking for something that gives me options but doesn’t overwhelm me with requirements for specialized knowledge. As you can imagine, there are a lot of portable radios to choose from. Several considerations lead me to select the CountyComm GP-7 GEN 5 over other options.
Reputable and Reliable manufacture: CountyComm has been making precision tools to government contract specs for over 30 years. This particular radio is on it’s 5th generation of design. It is a known performer, sold by a company with a reputation for quality products and customer service.
Minimal Interface: The radio is lightweight and has a slim, compact form factor. No app or additional device is required to operate it. The buttons are uncluttered and clearly labeled. Basic info like the clock, battery level, and signal strength are always visible. The backlit LCD screen activates with any button push.
Dimensions: 6.20″ X 2.05″ X .80″ Weight: 5.2 ounces with battery
Functionality: The 27 inch antenna offers AM/FM, Short/Medium/Longwave, and SSB bands; a host of channels to explore. The radio features Autoscan, Direct Frequency Entry, and Variable Rate options for tuning, plus an “Easy Tuning” mode for those who don’t want to use advanced features. It will store up to 850 channels!
I’m getting about 8 hours of use per charge. Available accessories include antennae, cases, and carry pouches. The GP-7 Gen 5 uses removable batteries and USB-C charging standards. There is also an extended runtime kit which includes a wall charger and two batteries for supporting longer operation periods.
The radio’s single .5 watt speaker puts out clear sound and reaches an impressive volume for its size. There is a standard 3.5mm jack for using the included earphone set.
Bonus Point: A lot of products skimp on support information these days. I’m showing my age by saying this, but one touch I appreciate is that the GP-7 comes with a clearly written, hard copy manual. It is big enough to be readable and small enough to keep with the radio. Digital manuals or QR codes are fine for backups, but I don’t want to have to fire up a second device and use power in order to give myself a quick refresher or troubleshoot.
Conclusion: If you are looking for a dependable reciever to round out your safety preperations or camp gear, look no further! The CountyComm GP-7 GEN 5 General Purpose Radio does everything one needs a general purpose radio to do, and does it well.
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CountyComm has kindly provided a coupon code for all Tenkara Angler readers!
Save 10% off your purchase at their website using code TENKARAANGLERMAGAZINE
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