FAQ
Check out the Mountain Radio User Manual for more detailed information.
Each of our radios is purpose-built for specific backcountry sports. Determining the optimal radio for you will depend on your activities of choice, as well as personal preferences. Check out our Recommendations by Sport chart to see our team’s detailed suggestions for each activity.
We designed our award-winning Mountain Radio with climbers and backcountry skiers in mind, but they have proven popular for a wide range of activities, from camping / hiking to mountain biking. The radio transmits the maximum power legally allowed for use without a license (2-watts), which gives it great range (see Range Testing video here) while maintaining a compact and lightweight design (6.5oz).
The compact design makes the radio a great choice for many human-powered activities where weight is a priority. Other activities like hunting and motorsports, where extending range is more important than weight, could consider a GMRS radio like our 5 Watt Radio (Range Comparison video coming soon).
The Mountain Radio has an IP56 (snowproof and splashproof) waterproof rating, which will have you covered in heavy rain or wet spring skiing. If your activity requires greater waterproofing, we recommend you consider our Waterproof Hand Mic attachment or our 5 Watt Radio which are both rated IP67 (submergible to 1 meter).
Watch a video of our Mountain Radio range testing here.
The Mountain Radio transmits the maximum power legally allowed for use without a license (2-watts). The maximum line-of-sight range is over 25 miles, however, 1 to 5 miles is more typical in backcountry terrain.
The toughest environments for radio communication are cities and urban centers where large buildings block signal and the air is filled with other radio waves causing signal noise. In these environments, expect to get up to 1 mile of range. All distances listed above are tested with the radio’s High Power mode (2 watts). The Low Power mode (0.5 watts) will slightly reduce maximum range, but increase battery life.
For more detail, please see our blog post on walkie talkie range.
The Mountain Radio has a specialized rechargeable, removable, and cold resistant lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1550 mAhrs.
Battery life is dependent on how frequently the radio transmits and receives. With normal usage, the battery can be expected to last 4 days (assuming the radio is used 8 hours/day) even in very cold conditions (-20F). The batteries have passed the tests on big mountains from Denali to Everest.
The battery will last over 120 hrs when in standby mode (the radio is on but not transmitting or receiving signals). The battery life was tested in High Power mode (2 Watts), so you can expect a slightly longer battery life in Low Power mode (0.5 Watt).
The battery charges via standard USB-C charging.
The Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio operates on FRS license-free frequencies and no license is necessary.
The Mountain Radio has an IP56 (snowproof and splashproof) waterproof rating, which will have you covered in even heavy rain or wet spring skiing. If your activity requires greater waterproofing, we recommend you consider our Waterproof Hand Mic attachment or our 5 Watt Radio which are both rated IP67 (submergible to 1 meter).
Yes! You can order extra batteries here for your Mountain Radio. For instructions on replacing the battery, see this video.
Our team tested VOX (voice activation) extensively (both when developing the Mountain Radio and testing other radios), but were unable to achieve a level of reliability that we thought was needed for backcountry communication. Oftentimes VOX will be activated by outside noises (like the wind) or potentially fail to activate in a critical situation. Because of this, we instead focused on a convenient attachment system and accessories like the Waterproof Hand Mic to make the radio as easy as possible to use on the go.
The Mountain Radio can connect with all other FRS or GMRS radios using channels 1 through 22. The most important thing to remember is to match both the channel and privacy code (also known as subchannel) on the radios. For a recap on how to select your privacy code, check out this clip from our operations video!
The Mountain Radio is compatible with nearly all USB-C chargers! A USB-A to USB-C charging cable is included with every radio. You can use charging blocks and chargers from your other devices such as: phone or laptop chargers, power banks, solar chargers, etc. As long as the device is capable of outputting 5V 1A and has a USB-C plug, it will be compatible.
For any questions about charging please contact us for assistance!
We now offer our Waterproof Hand Mic as an attachment for the Mountain Radio. The Mountain Radio has a standard K1 type port (dual pin 3.5 mm-2.5 mm) and can also be paired with most other K1 type headsets and external mics.
While we haven't released our own headset, feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to provide suggestions for compatible headsets.
Privacy codes (also known as sub-channels) are used to filter out unwanted transmissions from other radio users in the area, so you only hear your partners. The radio has 121 privacy codes and 22 unique frequencies, giving you thousands of options to find a clear channel. Here is a video showing how to configure privacy codes on your Mountain Radio.
Channels 23 through 128 on your radio already come with a privacy code preassigned to the channel out of the box. If you happen to hear another radio user on one of these channels, odds are good that it's a fellow Rocky Talkie owner!
The Mountain Radios transmit on FRS license-free frequencies which range from 462 to 467 MHz. These frequencies are part of the Ultra High Frequency band (UHF). See the Mountain Radio User Manual's channel settings section for the complete list of frequencies each channel uses.
As an FRS license-free radio, per FCC regulations, the Mountain Radio is not programmable and is limited to the 22 designated FRS \ GMRS frequencies (between 462 and 467 MHz).
High Power mode uses 2 watts and Low Power mode uses 0.5 watts. You can tell if you are on High Power or Low Power by the “H” or “L” indicator on the screen. To switch between the two on the Mountain Radio, hold down the Volume + button for 2 seconds.
Check the battery life of the Mountain Radio (single press the power button). In order to protect the battery, if the radio is below 15% battery life the battery is too low to transmit and can only receive signals.
If the battery is not low, double check that the radio you are trying to talk with is on the same channel. Next, make sure the radio you are trying to transmit with is on the same privacy code. You will see CT lit up on the screen if privacy codes are activated.
Check out the 5 Watt Radio User Manual for more detailed information.
Each of our radios is purpose-built for specific backcountry sports. Determining the optimal radio for you will depend on your activities of choice, as well as personal preferences. Check out our Recommendations by Sport chart to see our team’s detailed suggestions for each activity.
We designed the 5 Watt Radio to bring the Rocky Talkie experience to a new class of adventure sports that benefit from increased range or submergible waterproofing, like white water rafting, hunting, and overlanding. The radio has a waterproof rating of IP67 (1-meter submersion) and uses the maximum power legally allowed for a handheld GMRS radio (5 watts) to maximize range (watch our range comparison video). The 5 Watt Radio comes standard with our Steel Gator Clip to keep radio stable in bumpy terrain. This can be swapped for our Carabiner attachment.
The 5 Watt Radio includes useful features for the backcountry, including access to 11 weather channels and NOAA weather alerts, as well as dual-channel monitoring and transmitting. The radio’s GMRS designation unlocks 8 repeater channels to relay & extend your transmission range, as well as a removable antenna. Each radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna installed.
Looking for a lighter-weight or license-free radio option? Check out our award-winning FRS Mountain Radio.
Watch our Range Testing video here.
True to its name, the 5 Watt Radio transmits the highest GMRS power (5-watts) permitted under FCC regulations. The max range is over 35 miles, however, 2 to 8 miles is typical in backcountry terrain.
Urban environments are the most difficult for radio range, and it’s safe to expect less than 1.5 miles of range while in the city. The metal buildings and interference in cities are a worst case scenario for range.
The radio’s GMRS designation unlocks 8 repeater channels to relay and extend your transmission range, as well as a removable antenna. Each radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna installed. This can be swapped for a larger, higher gain antenna for increased range.
The 5 Watt Radio has a rechargeable and removeable Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1800 mAhrs.
Battery life is dependent on how frequently the radio transmits and receives. With normal usage, the battery can be expected to last 5 days (assuming the radio is used 8 hours/day) even in very cold conditions (-20f).
The battery will last over 150 hrs when in standby mode (the radio is on but not transmitting or receiving signals). The battery life was tested in High Power mode (5 Watts), so you can expect a longer battery life in Low Power mode (0.5 Watt).
The battery charges via standard USB-C charging.
The FCC does require a license to use GMRS radios. Getting a GMRS license is a quick and easy process. Simply apply online, pay the $35 fee, and enjoy your GMRS license for 10 years. Only one license is necessary per family (including grandparents, parents, siblings, children). See our blog post for getting a license here.
The 5 Watt Radio was not only designed to be waterproof, but to continue to function reliably while in the wettest conditions. The IP67 waterproof rating protects the electronics from damage up to 1 meter submersion. The radio was also designed with a fully waterproof speaker/microphone system that allows water to drain quickly.
The battery is waterproof and fully removable. Finding water in the gap between the battery and the radio is normal and does not compromise the seal between the radio and the battery.
The headset M3 port and USB-C charging port are waterproof as well, although both should be dried before connecting a headset or charging your radio.
Proper care can help ensure your 5 Watt Radio lasts for many years. Before you use your radio, ensure the charging port cover is fully seated to prevent water from getting to the charging port. While the port itself is waterproof, keeping this area dry can help prevent material build up that could damage the port over time. If the radio gets exposed to salt water during usage, the best practice is to lightly rinse your radio with fresh water then allow it to dry indoors.
Yes! You can order extra batteries for the 5 Watt Radio here. For instructions on replacing the battery, see this video (coming soon).
The 5 Watt Radio is compatible with nearly all USB-C chargers! A USB-A to USB-C charging cable is included with every radio. You can use charging blocks and chargers from your other devices such as: phone or laptop chargers, power banks, solar chargers, etc. As long as the device is capable of outputting 5V 1A and has a USB-C plug, it will be compatible.
For any questions about charging, please contact us for assistance!
We now offer our Waterproof Hand Mic as an attachment for the 5 Watt Radio. The radio has a standard waterproof M3 type port and can also be paired with most other M3 type headsets and external mics.
While we haven't released our own headset, feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to provide suggestions for compatible headsets.
In addition to the 22 channels on your 5 Watt Radio, it includes the 8 standard GMRS repeater channels.
These 8 repeater channels are hidden from your channel list by default. To access repeater channels, follow these steps:
- Start with the radio OFF.
- Press and hold the Volume Minus (CT) and Power buttons while powering on your radio.
- Repeater channels are now enabled and can be seen by scrolling past the first 22 channels. These channels are indicated by the REP icon.
For more questions on using repeaters, feel free to contact us.
Yes! The 5 Watt Radio has access to 11 NOAA weather channels.
While your radio is powered on and unlocked, hold the Volume Up (+) button on the side of your radio for 2 seconds. Your radio will begin scanning the 11 regional NOAA weather channels. Once your radio picks up a signal, it will stop scanning and you will hear the NOAA weather updates. If you know the NOAA channel for your area, you can override scan by using the Channel Flipper to manually select the weather channel.
As a GMRS radio, per FCC regulations, the 5 Watt Radio is not programmable and is limited to the 22 designated FRS \ GMRS frequencies (between 462 and 467 MHz).
Our team tested VOX (voice activation) extensively (both when developing the radio and testing other radio brands), but were unable to achieve a level of reliability that we thought was needed for backcountry communication. Oftentimes VOX will be activated by outside noises (like the wind) or potentially fail to activate in a critical situation. Because of this, we instead focused on a convenient attachment system and accessories like our Waterproof Hand Mic to make the radio as easy as possible to use on the go.
The 5 Watt Radio transmits on the standard 22 GMRS frequencies which range from 462 to 467 MHz and are shared with FRS radios. These frequencies are part of the Ultra High Frequency band (UHF). See the 5 Watt User Manual's Channel Settings section for the complete list of frequencies each channel uses.
Yes! As a GMRS radio, the 5 Watt Radio's antenna is permitted to be removeable and replaced.
The radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna (1/4 wavelength, 50 Ω, SMA male) tuned for UHF frequencies. While the included antenna is a great balance of form and function, you can swap on a longer, higher gain antenna to improve your radio’s range. Make sure your radio is turned off, then unscrew the antenna counterclockwise and screw on your other antenna clockwise until its tight.
Rocky Talkies are designed and tested in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and distributed from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Our radios are fully engineered by our small team of adventurers who understand the unique needs of backcountry communication: from maximizing range and battery cold performance, to prioritizing key features and keeping the experience simple.
Over the years, the consumer radio industry has built an unfortunate reputation for cheap, disposable products that often don’t last the season, and batteries that don’t last a full day. We are committed to breaking this mold with durable, high-quality components that are built to last for many years of rugged use. Every Rocky Talkie has a shatterproof LED screen (no glass), rubberized protective covering, and strong attachment system. Our high-quality Lithium-Ion batteries achieve around 4 to 5 days of battery on a single charge and can be replaced down the road to further extend the longevity of the radio.
We have a dedicated customer support team of US-based adventurers who are passionate about radios and are HAM-certified. If you have any additional questions about our radios, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us here.
You can definitely pair your Mountain Radio with the 5 Watt Radio. The first 22 channels are the same on both radios and you can match the privacy codes as well.
Both the Mountain Radio and 5 Watt radio are compatible with all other FRS and GMRS radios.
There is no limit for how many Rocky Talkies you can use together, or in combination with other brands of FRS or GMRS radios. Only a single radio can transmit on a given channel and privacy code at one time.
Rocky Talkie products are backed by a 2-year warranty.
For all US orders, we offer complimentary expedited shipping with FedEx 2-day (1 business day processing). Orders received before 11AM MT on business days will be shipped the same day. All orders beyond that time will ship the following business day.
View our Shipping Policy here.
While your radios will definitely work outside of the US and Canada, radio regulations vary, so we always recommend looking up the local radio regulations for your destination country.
The US Transportation Security Administration allows for Lithium-Ion batteries to be stowed in your carry-on bag, but not a checked bag.
We rely on specialized manufacturing partners in China, Taiwan, and Italy for parts and electronics assembly, and label our products as made in China.
Our team is entirely US based, and we design and hand-test all of our products at our headquarters in Colorado.
Rocky Talkie is a Climate Neutral Certified Brand. Our team has established a partnership with Climate Neutral, a globally recognized nonprofit organization working to eliminate carbon emissions. With their help, we have measured and offset all of our brand’s annual cradle-to-customer emissions. To learn more, please visit our Sustainability page.
As a small company we are working hard to expand our regions of sale, however due to radio frequency regulations we are currently unable to sell our products outside of the USA and Canada. We don't have any firm timelines to begin selling outside of those countries but please stay tuned!
Rocky Talkies have not been tested in zero gravity, but the range in outer-space will be stellar!
FAQ
Check out the Mountain Radio User Manual for more detailed information.
Each of our radios is purpose-built for specific backcountry sports. Determining the optimal radio for you will depend on your activities of choice, as well as personal preferences. Check out our Recommendations by Sport chart to see our team’s detailed suggestions for each activity.
We designed our award-winning Mountain Radio with climbers and backcountry skiers in mind, but they have proven popular for a wide range of activities, from camping / hiking to mountain biking. The radio transmits the maximum power legally allowed for use without a license (2-watts), which gives it great range (see Range Testing video here) while maintaining a compact and lightweight design (6.5oz).
The compact design makes the radio a great choice for many human-powered activities where weight is a priority. Other activities like hunting and motorsports, where extending range is more important than weight, could consider a GMRS radio like our 5 Watt Radio (Range Comparison video coming soon).
The Mountain Radio has an IP56 (snowproof and splashproof) waterproof rating, which will have you covered in heavy rain or wet spring skiing. If your activity requires greater waterproofing, we recommend you consider our Waterproof Hand Mic attachment or our 5 Watt Radio which are both rated IP67 (submergible to 1 meter).
Watch a video of our Mountain Radio range testing here.
The Mountain Radio transmits the maximum power legally allowed for use without a license (2-watts). The maximum line-of-sight range is over 25 miles, however, 1 to 5 miles is more typical in backcountry terrain.
The toughest environments for radio communication are cities and urban centers where large buildings block signal and the air is filled with other radio waves causing signal noise. In these environments, expect to get up to 1 mile of range. All distances listed above are tested with the radio’s High Power mode (2 watts). The Low Power mode (0.5 watts) will slightly reduce maximum range, but increase battery life.
For more detail, please see our blog post on walkie talkie range.
The Mountain Radio has a specialized rechargeable, removable, and cold resistant lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1550 mAhrs.
Battery life is dependent on how frequently the radio transmits and receives. With normal usage, the battery can be expected to last 4 days (assuming the radio is used 8 hours/day) even in very cold conditions (-20F). The batteries have passed the tests on big mountains from Denali to Everest.
The battery will last over 120 hrs when in standby mode (the radio is on but not transmitting or receiving signals). The battery life was tested in High Power mode (2 Watts), so you can expect a slightly longer battery life in Low Power mode (0.5 Watt).
The battery charges via standard USB-C charging.
The Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio operates on FRS license-free frequencies and no license is necessary.
The Mountain Radio has an IP56 (snowproof and splashproof) waterproof rating, which will have you covered in even heavy rain or wet spring skiing. If your activity requires greater waterproofing, we recommend you consider our Waterproof Hand Mic attachment or our 5 Watt Radio which are both rated IP67 (submergible to 1 meter).
Yes! You can order extra batteries here for your Mountain Radio. For instructions on replacing the battery, see this video.
Our team tested VOX (voice activation) extensively (both when developing the Mountain Radio and testing other radios), but were unable to achieve a level of reliability that we thought was needed for backcountry communication. Oftentimes VOX will be activated by outside noises (like the wind) or potentially fail to activate in a critical situation. Because of this, we instead focused on a convenient attachment system and accessories like the Waterproof Hand Mic to make the radio as easy as possible to use on the go.
The Mountain Radio can connect with all other FRS or GMRS radios using channels 1 through 22. The most important thing to remember is to match both the channel and privacy code (also known as subchannel) on the radios. For a recap on how to select your privacy code, check out this clip from our operations video!
The Mountain Radio is compatible with nearly all USB-C chargers! A USB-A to USB-C charging cable is included with every radio. You can use charging blocks and chargers from your other devices such as: phone or laptop chargers, power banks, solar chargers, etc. As long as the device is capable of outputting 5V 1A and has a USB-C plug, it will be compatible.
For any questions about charging please contact us for assistance!
We now offer our Waterproof Hand Mic as an attachment for the Mountain Radio. The Mountain Radio has a standard K1 type port (dual pin 3.5 mm-2.5 mm) and can also be paired with most other K1 type headsets and external mics.
While we haven't released our own headset, feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to provide suggestions for compatible headsets.
Privacy codes (also known as sub-channels) are used to filter out unwanted transmissions from other radio users in the area, so you only hear your partners. The radio has 121 privacy codes and 22 unique frequencies, giving you thousands of options to find a clear channel. Here is a video showing how to configure privacy codes on your Mountain Radio.
Channels 23 through 128 on your radio already come with a privacy code preassigned to the channel out of the box. If you happen to hear another radio user on one of these channels, odds are good that it's a fellow Rocky Talkie owner!
The Mountain Radios transmit on FRS license-free frequencies which range from 462 to 467 MHz. These frequencies are part of the Ultra High Frequency band (UHF). See the Mountain Radio User Manual's channel settings section for the complete list of frequencies each channel uses.
As an FRS license-free radio, per FCC regulations, the Mountain Radio is not programmable and is limited to the 22 designated FRS \ GMRS frequencies (between 462 and 467 MHz).
High Power mode uses 2 watts and Low Power mode uses 0.5 watts. You can tell if you are on High Power or Low Power by the “H” or “L” indicator on the screen. To switch between the two on the Mountain Radio, hold down the Volume + button for 2 seconds.
Check the battery life of the Mountain Radio (single press the power button). In order to protect the battery, if the radio is below 15% battery life the battery is too low to transmit and can only receive signals.
If the battery is not low, double check that the radio you are trying to talk with is on the same channel. Next, make sure the radio you are trying to transmit with is on the same privacy code. You will see CT lit up on the screen if privacy codes are activated.
Check out the 5 Watt Radio User Manual for more detailed information.
Each of our radios is purpose-built for specific backcountry sports. Determining the optimal radio for you will depend on your activities of choice, as well as personal preferences. Check out our Recommendations by Sport chart to see our team’s detailed suggestions for each activity.
We designed the 5 Watt Radio to bring the Rocky Talkie experience to a new class of adventure sports that benefit from increased range or submergible waterproofing, like white water rafting, hunting, and overlanding. The radio has a waterproof rating of IP67 (1-meter submersion) and uses the maximum power legally allowed for a handheld GMRS radio (5 watts) to maximize range (watch our range comparison video). The 5 Watt Radio comes standard with our Steel Gator Clip to keep radio stable in bumpy terrain. This can be swapped for our Carabiner attachment.
The 5 Watt Radio includes useful features for the backcountry, including access to 11 weather channels and NOAA weather alerts, as well as dual-channel monitoring and transmitting. The radio’s GMRS designation unlocks 8 repeater channels to relay & extend your transmission range, as well as a removable antenna. Each radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna installed.
Looking for a lighter-weight or license-free radio option? Check out our award-winning FRS Mountain Radio.
Watch our Range Testing video here.
True to its name, the 5 Watt Radio transmits the highest GMRS power (5-watts) permitted under FCC regulations. The max range is over 35 miles, however, 2 to 8 miles is typical in backcountry terrain.
Urban environments are the most difficult for radio range, and it’s safe to expect less than 1.5 miles of range while in the city. The metal buildings and interference in cities are a worst case scenario for range.
The radio’s GMRS designation unlocks 8 repeater channels to relay and extend your transmission range, as well as a removable antenna. Each radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna installed. This can be swapped for a larger, higher gain antenna for increased range.
The 5 Watt Radio has a rechargeable and removeable Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1800 mAhrs.
Battery life is dependent on how frequently the radio transmits and receives. With normal usage, the battery can be expected to last 5 days (assuming the radio is used 8 hours/day) even in very cold conditions (-20f).
The battery will last over 150 hrs when in standby mode (the radio is on but not transmitting or receiving signals). The battery life was tested in High Power mode (5 Watts), so you can expect a longer battery life in Low Power mode (0.5 Watt).
The battery charges via standard USB-C charging.
The FCC does require a license to use GMRS radios. Getting a GMRS license is a quick and easy process. Simply apply online, pay the $35 fee, and enjoy your GMRS license for 10 years. Only one license is necessary per family (including grandparents, parents, siblings, children). See our blog post for getting a license here.
The 5 Watt Radio was not only designed to be waterproof, but to continue to function reliably while in the wettest conditions. The IP67 waterproof rating protects the electronics from damage up to 1 meter submersion. The radio was also designed with a fully waterproof speaker/microphone system that allows water to drain quickly.
The battery is waterproof and fully removable. Finding water in the gap between the battery and the radio is normal and does not compromise the seal between the radio and the battery.
The headset M3 port and USB-C charging port are waterproof as well, although both should be dried before connecting a headset or charging your radio.
Proper care can help ensure your 5 Watt Radio lasts for many years. Before you use your radio, ensure the charging port cover is fully seated to prevent water from getting to the charging port. While the port itself is waterproof, keeping this area dry can help prevent material build up that could damage the port over time. If the radio gets exposed to salt water during usage, the best practice is to lightly rinse your radio with fresh water then allow it to dry indoors.
Yes! You can order extra batteries for the 5 Watt Radio here. For instructions on replacing the battery, see this video (coming soon).
The 5 Watt Radio is compatible with nearly all USB-C chargers! A USB-A to USB-C charging cable is included with every radio. You can use charging blocks and chargers from your other devices such as: phone or laptop chargers, power banks, solar chargers, etc. As long as the device is capable of outputting 5V 1A and has a USB-C plug, it will be compatible.
For any questions about charging, please contact us for assistance!
We now offer our Waterproof Hand Mic as an attachment for the 5 Watt Radio. The radio has a standard waterproof M3 type port and can also be paired with most other M3 type headsets and external mics.
While we haven't released our own headset, feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to provide suggestions for compatible headsets.
In addition to the 22 channels on your 5 Watt Radio, it includes the 8 standard GMRS repeater channels.
These 8 repeater channels are hidden from your channel list by default. To access repeater channels, follow these steps:
- Start with the radio OFF.
- Press and hold the Volume Minus (CT) and Power buttons while powering on your radio.
- Repeater channels are now enabled and can be seen by scrolling past the first 22 channels. These channels are indicated by the REP icon.
For more questions on using repeaters, feel free to contact us.
Yes! The 5 Watt Radio has access to 11 NOAA weather channels.
While your radio is powered on and unlocked, hold the Volume Up (+) button on the side of your radio for 2 seconds. Your radio will begin scanning the 11 regional NOAA weather channels. Once your radio picks up a signal, it will stop scanning and you will hear the NOAA weather updates. If you know the NOAA channel for your area, you can override scan by using the Channel Flipper to manually select the weather channel.
As a GMRS radio, per FCC regulations, the 5 Watt Radio is not programmable and is limited to the 22 designated FRS \ GMRS frequencies (between 462 and 467 MHz).
Our team tested VOX (voice activation) extensively (both when developing the radio and testing other radio brands), but were unable to achieve a level of reliability that we thought was needed for backcountry communication. Oftentimes VOX will be activated by outside noises (like the wind) or potentially fail to activate in a critical situation. Because of this, we instead focused on a convenient attachment system and accessories like our Waterproof Hand Mic to make the radio as easy as possible to use on the go.
The 5 Watt Radio transmits on the standard 22 GMRS frequencies which range from 462 to 467 MHz and are shared with FRS radios. These frequencies are part of the Ultra High Frequency band (UHF). See the 5 Watt User Manual's Channel Settings section for the complete list of frequencies each channel uses.
Yes! As a GMRS radio, the 5 Watt Radio's antenna is permitted to be removeable and replaced.
The radio comes with a compact and high-performance 3 inch antenna (1/4 wavelength, 50 Ω, SMA male) tuned for UHF frequencies. While the included antenna is a great balance of form and function, you can swap on a longer, higher gain antenna to improve your radio’s range. Make sure your radio is turned off, then unscrew the antenna counterclockwise and screw on your other antenna clockwise until its tight.
Rocky Talkies are designed and tested in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and distributed from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Our radios are fully engineered by our small team of adventurers who understand the unique needs of backcountry communication: from maximizing range and battery cold performance, to prioritizing key features and keeping the experience simple.
Over the years, the consumer radio industry has built an unfortunate reputation for cheap, disposable products that often don’t last the season, and batteries that don’t last a full day. We are committed to breaking this mold with durable, high-quality components that are built to last for many years of rugged use. Every Rocky Talkie has a shatterproof LED screen (no glass), rubberized protective covering, and strong attachment system. Our high-quality Lithium-Ion batteries achieve around 4 to 5 days of battery on a single charge and can be replaced down the road to further extend the longevity of the radio.
We have a dedicated customer support team of US-based adventurers who are passionate about radios and are HAM-certified. If you have any additional questions about our radios, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us here.
You can definitely pair your Mountain Radio with the 5 Watt Radio. The first 22 channels are the same on both radios and you can match the privacy codes as well.
Both the Mountain Radio and 5 Watt radio are compatible with all other FRS and GMRS radios.
There is no limit for how many Rocky Talkies you can use together, or in combination with other brands of FRS or GMRS radios. Only a single radio can transmit on a given channel and privacy code at one time.
Rocky Talkie products are backed by a 2-year warranty.
For all US orders, we offer complimentary expedited shipping with FedEx 2-day (1 business day processing). Orders received before 11AM MT on business days will be shipped the same day. All orders beyond that time will ship the following business day.
View our Shipping Policy here.
While your radios will definitely work outside of the US and Canada, radio regulations vary, so we always recommend looking up the local radio regulations for your destination country.
The US Transportation Security Administration allows for Lithium-Ion batteries to be stowed in your carry-on bag, but not a checked bag.
We rely on specialized manufacturing partners in China, Taiwan, and Italy for parts and electronics assembly, and label our products as made in China.
Our team is entirely US based, and we design and hand-test all of our products at our headquarters in Colorado.
Rocky Talkie is a Climate Neutral Certified Brand. Our team has established a partnership with Climate Neutral, a globally recognized nonprofit organization working to eliminate carbon emissions. With their help, we have measured and offset all of our brand’s annual cradle-to-customer emissions. To learn more, please visit our Sustainability page.
As a small company we are working hard to expand our regions of sale, however due to radio frequency regulations we are currently unable to sell our products outside of the USA and Canada. We don't have any firm timelines to begin selling outside of those countries but please stay tuned!
Rocky Talkies have not been tested in zero gravity, but the range in outer-space will be stellar!