Midland GXT500 (14 Channels) Two Way Radio

Pros: range, AA Batteries, belt clip, ease of modification
Cons: low battery vibrate malfunction, thickness, call button location

I'm a long term user of 2-way radios. I primarily use them out in the hills, woods and fields of the Cannon River Valley. I've primarily owned Motorola in the past. The Motorola's are tough, well designed and fairly compact. Their problem is range. They ...

Pros: small, light weight
Cons: Actual range in forested, hardwoods is less than 1 mile.

Had been shopping for a pair of radios for a couple years. We hunt remote areas and communication is critical. Wanted to avoid units of "toy" quality. When these units appeared on the market, the advertised 14 mile range got my attention. Yeah, I know the "ideal" conditions disclaimer, but expected them to at least work within the 3-5 miles needed.