Req 8e — FRS & GMRS Overview
8.
Option E—Family Radio Service (FRS) & General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Walkie Talkies. Do ALL of the following:
Family Radio Service (FRS) & General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Walkie Talkies
Option E is the most accessible of the five options — you probably already own or have access to a pair of FRS/GMRS walkie-talkies. These are the radios you see at campouts, on ski slopes, at theme parks, and in warehouses. This option asks you to understand what they are, how they compare to other radio services, and then actually use them in a real-world activity.
What You’ll Complete
- Req 8e1 — FRS vs. GMRS vs. Others: Compare FRS, GMRS, CB, and amateur radio.
- Req 8e2 — FRS/GMRS Details: Understand licensing, frequencies, power, antennas, range, uses, and emergency applications.
- Req 8e3 — Use Radios in the Field: Use FRS or GMRS radios during a hike, event, or team activity and discuss what you learned.
Equipment Needed
A pair of FRS/GMRS walkie-talkies. These are widely available for $20–$50 per pair at outdoor retailers, electronics stores, and online. Popular brands include Motorola, Midland, and Cobra. Many Scout troops already have a set.