I Made a MISTAKE When I Bought My Emergency Radio..

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Practical Preparedness

Practical Preparedness

2 жыл бұрын

I made a critical mistake when I bought my Emergency Radio. Twice! Let's talk about the key features to look for when buying a quality Emergency Radio, and what to watch out for.
DISCLAIMER - There may be Affiliate links below. This means I could receive a small commission if you use certain links. These help to support the channel and allow me to continue making videos, so if you use them, thank you! No links below will cost you anything additional to use. You can further support the channel by using the following link when shopping on Amazon - amzn.to/3oT3SEk
Here are a couple models with replaceable batteries.. Just don't forget to remove the battery while in storage (to avoid vampirism where battery is slowly depleted) or have an extra battery on hand that is properly stored:
Kaito Voyager - amzn.to/3nkNRqK
Kaito KA500 (AA battery compartment AND rechargeable NiMH) - amzn.to/3faKQ87
Kaito KA700 (replaceable Lithium 18650 Battery) - amzn.to/3JZ0Loi
Midland ER310 (6 AA backup) - amzn.to/31OAxUj
Sangean (replaceable NiMH Battery, although less common size) - amzn.to/3Gl47zD
FosPower (cheaper option but has AAA backup) - amzn.to/3Go7gPe

Пікірлер: 455
@personalemail2167
@personalemail2167 2 жыл бұрын
My mom got a hand crank radio/flashlight from Marlboro miles back in like 1999. That thing is still kicking! They just don’t make things the same anymore unfortunately
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Very true!
@cinsforgiven7
@cinsforgiven7 2 жыл бұрын
Marlboro Miles! That’s a blast from the past!!!🤣
@personalemail2167
@personalemail2167 2 жыл бұрын
@@cinsforgiven7 right?! I heard they started the program again.
@sandybarbee8401
@sandybarbee8401 2 жыл бұрын
Marlboros ? 1999 ? Is your Mom still kickin' ?
@personalemail2167
@personalemail2167 2 жыл бұрын
@@sandybarbee8401 🤣 she sure is! But she got the jab…so that will likely take her out before the affects of smoking will.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
I built one of those pedal-power chargers that college students talk about! It won't power the 110V TV, but it has a dynamo with a USB port, so I can charge the smaller devices, or a 6V power bank, so I can have lighting in any room- which I also built. It gives you a little exercise in the winter 😁
@ernststravoblofeld
@ernststravoblofeld 2 жыл бұрын
I bought one exactly like that, specifically to hand crank. It's been working great for years.
@ADKMan
@ADKMan 2 жыл бұрын
I have the same exact radio and have used it at my off grid place......1-2 minutes of cranking will get me all evening listening to one of the two stations I can pick up......but yes the battery could be an issue!! I bought it knowing it was cheap but it's now 5 years old and still going!! But in a long term event anything with a battery could be an issue!! Can only be charged so many times...will run out of batteries eventually plus age.....it you have owned for a few years before the event ...it's life during an event is all ready shortened!!
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Great points. They definitely have a place, even in a bag of some sort.
@patmills2089
@patmills2089 2 жыл бұрын
I just spent last week poring over the reviews of the different companies emergency radio/ battery/ charger for car, camping, emergency bag. Plus, I would like to give them as gifts. Thanks! I did narrow down to a few companies that different reviewers and professional reviewers recommended. I'll look forward to you next video!
@K-Kil
@K-Kil 2 жыл бұрын
A removable battery is a MUST in these. I have had my weather radio for years, and I am finally to the point where the battery won't hold a charge and needs too be replaced. Another plus is that you can add a piece of paper between the battery and terminal so that it does not self discharge. This makes the battery last waaaay longer over the years.
@valerief1231
@valerief1231 2 жыл бұрын
Great idea about putting the paper between the battery and terminal!
@redstarling5171
@redstarling5171 2 жыл бұрын
good tip, mine came with an info paper in-between battery i just left it in until i need it
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
I do that to LED beside lamps when I travel, so they don't accidentally turn on in the bag during a 4-hour drive to the hotel. Lately, I take all the batteries out of everything, then install them when i unpack at the hotel.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 Жыл бұрын
@@valerief1231 I take out one cell and tape it to the radio, so it doesn't discharge. If you use quality cells, like Energizer, it won't leak, but the dollar-store batteries WILL leak, so I put those in my LED torch, which I use a lot. Personally, i have dedicated AM, FM, NOAA, and SW receivers, and LED torches, candles, and chem lights in a small box, ready for use.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 Жыл бұрын
@@valerief1231 You better use something better than just paper for long-term storage. Paper will absorb any electrolyte, and if some gets out, and it will lead to a bigger mess. Use some dense poly plastic, like you have in milk jugs or plastic packaging. Cut a strip from that.
@bigfreddie4854
@bigfreddie4854 2 жыл бұрын
Great video Justin, I couldn't agree with you more . A backup radio is a must. I'm not sure but , the red cross use to give you that same radio for filling out one of there an app on there web site. In my case I made the once in a lifetime investment and upgraded to an Electracraft mode 1 . Crazy expensive portable ham radio made in the USA . If you can get over the sticker shock you will never need another radio. OK till the next one Stay safe and be well
@ponygirl1073
@ponygirl1073 2 жыл бұрын
So glad you made this vid. I ran to check what I had and was relieved that I had a good one. Thanks for the great infor.
@James-ke5sx
@James-ke5sx 2 жыл бұрын
I have an Eton with the carabiner hook. It doesn't have removable batteries which is a downside but that would make the whole unit bigger. I can recharge it using my power bank. Best thing is to just leave it sitting in the window all year long. I have an old one that I used to keep in my toolbox it must be at least 15 to 20 years old. It doesn't have solar power but it has a built-in battery I can put it in double-a batteries so between the two of them something should work. Glad you reminded me I'm going to check my radio today
@patriciaribaric3409
@patriciaribaric3409 2 жыл бұрын
I love using solar powered radios in my backyard while doing yard work. I also have several solar panels that recharge my radio when I let it run down. Thanks for the video. I think it's time to get another one as a back up.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
They are handy aren’t they? Kids love using the crank on them, nice way to keep ‘em entertained
@fvrrljr
@fvrrljr 2 жыл бұрын
i have a similar one and it comes in very handy. i actually found it while hiking, was buried under debris cleaned it up and worked. yes it does charge my phone half way when i charged it on the wall and used crank while plugged to phone. just crank slow no need for speed crank. mine has AA battery option.
@chunkyfecalbreakfast
@chunkyfecalbreakfast 2 жыл бұрын
I just changed the lithium battery in my GPS. If these things are cheap enough, it’s often worth buying a replacement battery which often can be larger and installing it yourself. It’s a case of splicing two coloured wires.
@lyssgreene1708
@lyssgreene1708 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I have that type and I've misplaced it in a move, but have been wondering if it could be dead by now and what to replace it with. XD
@Blackdog57
@Blackdog57 6 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for pointing out about the battery, you have saved us all a lot of money, I follow you now.🙏
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 6 ай бұрын
Something to be made aware of!
@3nertia
@3nertia 2 жыл бұрын
I've been designing (in my head, the only place I can afford to right now lol) a much better dynamo and just better backup battery in general. Something that could charge anything OR be charged *by* anything. Imagine charging your backup battery on a roadside car battery during SHTF xD With the way a dynamo works, gears aren't really necessary *at all* - the handle could just rotate inside a bearing cup and have its magnet inside the stationary coil winding and et voila!
@mikeneale2459
@mikeneale2459 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Yes, I bought one. You are right! I am looking for an emergency radio that I can count on in an emergency.
@marktapp5408
@marktapp5408 2 жыл бұрын
I've used one of these units for two years on a daily basis with great satisfaction. Using solar charge mostly but also USB and hand crank. If you think anything you buy will never fail forget it. If your life hangs in the balance maybe you need to remember "two is one and one is none". I'd tell your viewers that I think you are way too hard on this product.
@Utah_Mike
@Utah_Mike 2 жыл бұрын
Many battery hand tools also have radios, fans, lights, even power inverters to 120v. Batteries can even be recharged from solar. Ryobi, dewalt, & Milwaukee to name just a few. Then you add any “power tools that you might need (want).
@durgan5668
@durgan5668 2 жыл бұрын
Bought my E+Ready Emergency crank radio (Midland brand), during the civil unrest about 18 months ago. Never used, so I took it out of the box today and it still had 2 bars on the battery. Crank works, radio works, and I've got it stuck in the windowsill right now, powering up by solar. Has a AA battery option, but I just have the lithium in there, to avoid battery corrosion.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
My solar power bank actually discharges from the inferior battery inside. It holds a charge if you charge it from mains AC, then discharges even if you leave it on the windowsill in the sun. Don't get a $14 solar power bank.
@passager01
@passager01 10 ай бұрын
Agree , thanks for your advices . I consider buying an emergency radio with a dry cells compartment ( AAA or better , AA ) , so when the buil-in recharcheable battery dies later , the radio is still usable . I don't expect anything from the crank and the solar cells , they require very long time of charging for very little power .
@bque9444
@bque9444 2 жыл бұрын
Honest and practical advice. Thank you.
@johnstevenperez4186
@johnstevenperez4186 2 жыл бұрын
I have several radios similar to yours that I also bought from Amazon but mine came with a full size 18650 2000mAh battery. Swapped that one out with a better and larger 3200mAh capacity. These are mainly for Go bags or Car Kits. But for the home I have a more expensive Eton and Kaito Voyager. Thanks for your video and insights.
@scratchpad7954
@scratchpad7954 2 жыл бұрын
It is so refreshing to see a comment by someone who actually knows how to get mA and mAh straight! Also, you have no idea how much I wish that solar panel were a 2 kW panel. However, I realize that a 2 kW panel would cover enough area to provide shade for a large tent since the wattage of an average rooftop-grade panel for one's house averages somewhere between 250-400.
@SteveChippyPaine
@SteveChippyPaine 6 ай бұрын
Exactly my plan. Some of the cheap $10 usb chargers based around 18650s actually have decent batteries in them. The problem is that you never know if you're going to get one inside the one you buy.
@jerdog333
@jerdog333 2 жыл бұрын
yep, I had a radio that looked just like that one die on me and like you said, I didn't know how to solder a new battery or replace the one it came with. I used it when I first bought it and then it never worked after that. Great advice. Thank you.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing :)
@keithberry5870
@keithberry5870 2 жыл бұрын
Good points...yes having removable rechargeable batteries is critical.. because I seen some batteries leak and corrode and damage the radio or other electronics...always keep batteries out of device for long term storage until needed
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
He gives GOOD advice in this review. Don't believe the sales hype, "review videos" giving only a total approval, or the packaging. 5-way charging only complicates the wiring & electronics inside. The "better" idea regarding what you buy is fine, but you still need to learn how to use it properly, including changing the battery or charging! Practice, practice. He is very correct about selecting a flashlight or radio that actually gives you EASY access to the battery inside, and an efficient way to charge it. Having quality disposable cells, like RayOvac, are better than "5-way charging."
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
@@PracticalPreparedness As a boy Scout, we got to practice our skills every month, leading up to the February Polar Bear camp weekend, and some mountain backpacking in the Rockies.
@creinicke1000
@creinicke1000 2 жыл бұрын
I've been searching for a radio.. I keep switching things out because I really was not sure on them.. this clip helped me.
@StringerNews1
@StringerNews1 Жыл бұрын
For years and years, my "survival" radio was just a Sony Walkman. It worked great, and took AA cells that I had in abundance. Today I have a Zurio brand radio that uses a standard 18650 cell. I can charge it with USB, just like yours, or I can swap in a freshly charged 18650 cell. I now have a lot of those too! There's also the option of using standard AA cells, solar and a crank.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
Very nice! I know a lot of folks stock up on 18650, wise choice
@jacquelinerodenbush6691
@jacquelinerodenbush6691 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this. I have two of these, one at work, in my get home bag, and one at home. I'll make sure to upgrade.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
I think these may be perfect for bags if you can have access to sun or manual charging. At home, I invested in something tougher myself :)
@fireraccoon6464
@fireraccoon6464 18 күн бұрын
What did you get?​@@PracticalPreparedness
@sup8447
@sup8447 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for your advice and review, it helped out a lot.
@JesusSaves86AB
@JesusSaves86AB 2 жыл бұрын
You can cut the battery off at the wires and glue a 18650 battery holder on. That way you can swap the battery and charge via a device with a better charge controller or BMS (whichever one it is or both, I'm not a professional). I bought a $60CDN one and it seems that was a good price point, 5000mah battery, solar panel is tiny but manages in direct sunlight. And the hand crank dynamo is a must. Good video, I see most folks cheap out on these.
2 жыл бұрын
I went for a Tecsun, they can be charged over USB (for example with a solar panel) and have replaceable NiMh cells. They also work on SW.
@IMDARKFIRE007
@IMDARKFIRE007 2 жыл бұрын
As a two time F5 survivor, I can tell you this should be number ONE in any emergency weather event kit. You can flee INTO danger without storm location data provided by forecasters live on the radio. Lithium batteries are trash, don't even bother. best case, no battery power once it dies, worst case (that WILL happen) is you have a shiny paperweight when the battery won't hold a charge. Always go for replaceable batteries and pack 20 with the kit, AA and AAA can be bought literally anywhere on the fly. Larger batteries like 18650 and so on while they need to be charged, have a LONG life for something like this, I prefer the standards though because of availability. Also you might get a cheaper price without all the secondary power sources, because lets be real here, if you can burn through 20 batteries on a radio without a chance to refill? You are in bigger trouble than needing a radio.
@3nertia
@3nertia 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for making the point about fleeing *into* danger!
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
I like Lithium cells, but you need to maintain them. If you get enough advance notice of a storm, you can charge them one last time, then install when things start getting bad, so you are ready.
@IMDARKFIRE007
@IMDARKFIRE007 Жыл бұрын
@@BimblyPlays_ I was blessed. Many others were not. Don't EVER let your guard down. Have a go bag ready and know your escape plan. What I've seen would chill you to your soul. I'm a grown man and I can't even type this without tears. Stay safe.
@IMDARKFIRE007
@IMDARKFIRE007 Жыл бұрын
@@BimblyPlays_ And overcast cold weather…I would do well in England, I hate the sun and I’m hot natured🤣
@Stormyweld05
@Stormyweld05 Жыл бұрын
@@BimblyPlays_ Not true. We DO have tornadoes in the UK - I've seen one myself in Norfolk back in 2004 - but they tend to be less lethal (F1-F2 and possibly a rare F3). Don't assume it couldn't get worse, though.
@scottstewart6260
@scottstewart6260 2 жыл бұрын
only thing i dont like about those running snails is the plastic gets sticky/tacky over time. i just swapped mine for the midland with a much larger antenna, and replaceable lithium battery. Also dont solely rely on NOAA weather radio for notices. Here in KY, the Dec 10, 2021 tornado took out the weather radio system from NOAA. So make sure you can reach multiple FM stations that will give weather updates when the local weather radios go out. Also the Midland GXT GMRS radios have a really good noaa radio receiver.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
Those radios and stuff with the "protective" rubber coating on it does get a tacky or dirty feel. I'd rather strip that stuff off, if I knew how.
@3nertia
@3nertia 2 жыл бұрын
@@toml.8210 Most of them are molded anyway. I would suggest looking for something silicone as it doesn't tend to do that
@breakdownbill1
@breakdownbill1 2 жыл бұрын
I have both the Midland emergency radio and the Midland GMRS. Thanx for letting me know Midland has the replaceable battery and the GMRS has NOAA receiver
@MakeDoAndMend1
@MakeDoAndMend1 2 жыл бұрын
Interesting. We dont really have a need or have the same issues regarding weather in the UK. We are also a very small country compared to others in the world. Things I have are candles, camping stoves, heaters run on paraffin, but no emergency dedicated radios. Power outages. I am 66 years of age and have only experienced power cuts 3 times in my lifetime so far. Maybe I am a preper but didn't realise. Good common sense video thanks for sharing. Cheers from old George
@domkelly7284
@domkelly7284 Жыл бұрын
Get yourself an second gen freeplay wind up clockwork radio
@bradlafferty
@bradlafferty 2 жыл бұрын
Critical thinking; I like it. Thanks for sharing this. Enjoy your channel.
@mikesmith1550
@mikesmith1550 2 жыл бұрын
I think this is also a good argument for having a couple of small power banks available that can repower any of your devices during bad times.
@shellymilligan2953
@shellymilligan2953 2 жыл бұрын
I have a small solar generator a couple of solar power banks. They have proven to invaluable in power outages!
@rogerknight2267
@rogerknight2267 2 жыл бұрын
I just purchased a Jackery 1000 for that very reason. It has its limitations but when everything else has blown up, it’s better than nothing
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
That's a good idea, but you can't just leave a power bank in a drawer for 9 years, and expect it to be full. It needs to be topped-off every4-6 months. they should be fully discharged and recharged annually.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
@@rogerknight2267 Remember to bring it in the house in the winter; they don't like being frozen. Put it in the vehicle when you leave home or go on a trip.
@nagaviper1169
@nagaviper1169 2 жыл бұрын
I have a couple of power banks with built-in solar panels.
@HyperJoe
@HyperJoe 2 жыл бұрын
I'll agree, You should get the best You can afford when available, I just so happen to have that exact same Radio You're showing there, bought it over 2 Years ago, used it a couple Seasons Camping and still works perfectly and still looks new. I also have one My Wife bought Me 5-6 years ago, a bit beat up but I can still get it to work, another good option is buy a Charging Bank like for charging a Phone, it can hook up and give almost unlimited Power with the Solar Features, good Video and Good Advice, My Advice, keep it Simple .. 👍🤠
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
The charging bank is a great idea to keep things going!
@dwderp
@dwderp 2 жыл бұрын
The Midland ER200/ER210 check every one of these boxes. Not only does it have all the features of this radio, but once fully charged it holds the charge in it's replaceable battery for months and months on end. I have fully charged mine and left it sitting for six months and found it still full. It's super reliable and rugged, too. I lucked out and found my er200 for $20 because they were swapping it out for the almost identical, newer er210 model. But after living with it for two years, I would buy it at $50 with no hesitation.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for taking the time to share this!
@csluau5913
@csluau5913 2 жыл бұрын
Luckily mine has all three... Chargeable battery, space for AA back up batteries, and a handcrank as well as solar panel for charging.. I had to pay a bit more for it but it is worth it. I am now making a faraday cage to put it in for safekeeping.
@titanpreparedness
@titanpreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
I reviewed the running snail brand and they seem to be good. Option of replacement batteries. Good choice. Hand crank usually arent great on any radio thou
@titanpreparedness
@titanpreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
@@PracticalPreparedness i didnt see a option for replacing the LI ON battery in the manu. The running snail raido that i have does have the option to use additional batteries if the li on goes dead. Not sure of any radio that would be able to remove the rechargeable battery, sure its a safety feature.
@olgaguer6443
@olgaguer6443 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the valuable information!!!
@tankbennett7
@tankbennett7 2 жыл бұрын
Kudos... Thanks for the small insight
@Glocktard
@Glocktard 2 жыл бұрын
Bingo! You are so right. I bought one of those crank emergency POS’s many years ago and it’s trash. A Boafeng radio is better only thing is it doesn’t has AM radio but if you buy more than one boafeng then you have the walkie-talkie use.
@Velvet-Sunshine.
@Velvet-Sunshine. 2 жыл бұрын
Yes I agree totally. I bought a Kaito KA600, which has all the features you explained, plus you can put store bought batteries in it which have a shelf life of 10 years. I'm returning this radio KA600 because I also want to use it as an alarm clock or perhaps the listen to it, but it sounds so awful that I can't wait to turn it off. But it does work. A better choice and the one that I'm buying is the Kaito KA700, no store-bought battery but it does have an easily removable lithium ion, so you can have backup batteries or keep it charged on the one that it has, though I would prefer standard store bought batteries. Haven't received it yet, but the reviews are pretty good and it has many other features that I can you use. Just a comment about transistor radios in general. What happened, I've looked into many of them and to tell you the truth they don't sound very good. If my second choice of the Kaito KA700 sounds even 20% better, I'll keep it, but I may not be completely satisfied. It'll probably rarely be used, but at $80, it's highway robbery. Thanks for listening.
@carlosa1038
@carlosa1038 2 жыл бұрын
Great video. I just bought one from amazon $38 rechargeable lithium bat., hand crank, solar power, usb power and AA battery. Yes we all know all batteries die at some point but I also bought rechargeable batteries and a usb powered battery charger which I can power from my solar usb power bank.
@scottc7376
@scottc7376 2 жыл бұрын
Like the idea of this video but few things need perspective... I have a 2000mAh emergency radio, very highly rated on Amazon and via non-amazon reviews. After testing = on an iphone 6 with the radio’s battery charged to full it could only charge the iphone battery from 25% to 75% (not charge it twice as you indicated), and the solar charger feature getting direct sun for 6 hours in an almost ideal setting might take a month to recharge the battery (not just this radio - its fairly common issue).
@JohnClarke808
@JohnClarke808 2 жыл бұрын
I have the same one going on 8 year's. I have a cheap anker battery for it. I've even spilled pop on it and it still works. It's actually not bad for the price. I have one in my truck. If you crank it about 30 times you get about 10 minutes of play time
@JohnClarke808
@JohnClarke808 2 жыл бұрын
@@PracticalPreparedness no it's the original. I figured it wouldn't last very long but it still works. I use to use it when I was out bushcrafting. If it was in the sun it would extend the play time maybe a half hour then I would give it a few cranks. As for charging a phone NO the most I would get was a 5% change and that was cranking for probably a 1/2 also. I've purchased a different one maybe a year ago. If someone had a family and purchased one for each bag would be ideal then they would have a backup. But over all it's really not bad for the price.
@JAFO44
@JAFO44 2 ай бұрын
Great advice and key points
@mjhill72
@mjhill72 2 жыл бұрын
Keep it on a windowsill. It will NEVER be dead. I have an Eton just like that and it's always full power. Leaving in the sun is like keeping on a trickle charge. Like you said, the hand crank sucks, BUT it works fine to check the information you need. Those tiny radios have their place. I don't always want a big radio.
@bruhreallybruh
@bruhreallybruh 2 күн бұрын
I got a 4000mAH hand crack solar powered USB charger flashlight radio. It says it takes 2 minutes to hand crank for 15 - 20 minutes for the flashlight and radio to work. But it takes over an hour to get the cell phone to 10%. The flashlight is pretty bright. Never can have enough flashlights. After the power went out for a week after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. It's nice to have a GPS ready and listen to podcasts on my cell phone.
@josephbnd974
@josephbnd974 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for giving us things to look for in an emergency radio. So, far many reviewers of radios you provided link to have found the radios not too good.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
It's definitely hard to find a radio with AMAZING reviews. I just picked the ones that had the least bad ones :)
@baneverything5580
@baneverything5580 Жыл бұрын
My advice is to buy a quality AM radio receiver. It`s extremely important in my region of Louisiana because hurricanes destroy cell phone service, home phone lines, and local radio antennas. Get a Sangean PR-D4W. It`s a top notch AM receiver with clock and NOAA weather band with alert function. CCrane also has great (but more expensive) AM/FM receivers like the EP PRO. They have a new emergency radio as well, an update to their outdated one. My favorite emergency radio is the Kaito Voyager KA500 because it works well and includes shortwave. But get a dedicated high quality AM receiver for emergencies. During power outages they can pick up daytime stations over 200 miles away to get news and other important information. But there are ways to make a simple long wire antenna (try 100 or more feet of wire stretched out over the bushes, lower tree limbs, etc) with a simple 7 turn coil (like a coil of rope 6 or 7 inches in diameter held together with tape) in the wire itself that you place near your average AM radio to greatly boost reception. Buy a 4 ft ground rod and connect the coil end of the wire to it with an alligator clip. BAM, you now have a powerful inductive AM antenna that works like magic. Use at least 100 feet of wire. 200 or 300 is even better.
@eugeneflorence4355
@eugeneflorence4355 Жыл бұрын
Great information Thank you
@garyw6900
@garyw6900 2 жыл бұрын
That’s a Eton FR150 with a different name on it. I have owned one for years with no problem at all. However I did try to replace it with an Eton FRX2 and right out of the box, the battery would not hold a charge. I ordered a replacement battery and that lasted about 3 days and would also not hold a charge afterwards. It makes me not trust an Eton radio at all anymore.
@amfearliathmor9747
@amfearliathmor9747 2 жыл бұрын
My 16 year old Freeplay Summit Radio still working OK. I've also got the Freeplay FreeCharge 12V hand crank, which still works. But this is all old technology. Just get a decent radio. Even SDR radio receivers are around $100-150 now. A 26800 mAhr USB-C PD Power Bank with Power usage Displays ($40) and Solar Panel with USB-C PD are available to provide much more reliable power. If all else fails just have Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries L91 1.5V Bulk Pack of 10 on hand for your AA powered radio. Fresh ones will have an expiry date around 2040.
@glenmo1
@glenmo1 2 жыл бұрын
I have that same radio and when I charge it up after approximately 3 weeks of sitting idle. It doesn't take long to charge up to Max again which means it loses very little power.. you can probably leave this thing for close to a year without going completely dead
@Zaque-TV
@Zaque-TV 10 ай бұрын
When i went through the tornado outbreak in alabama in 2011. No power for 2 weeks. My little hand crank radio was my best buddy.
@Flashahol
@Flashahol 2 жыл бұрын
I make a huge effort in avoiding anything with non replaceable batteries. If I can't avoid it, I make sure I know what type of battery it is so I can treat it properly and make it last the most I can.
@blue1hair
@blue1hair 2 жыл бұрын
Kaito and some others have emergency radios that have a rechargeable battery that can be replaced if necessary and they also are able to be powered by regular use once batteries. I noticed that Kaito does have radios that are only powered by a rechargeable batter but you can replace it. I bought a replacement rechargeable battery and charged it and keep it handy.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Good call. Nice to have a charge ready to go
@brucej6124
@brucej6124 2 жыл бұрын
I would add another radio you might consider using would be the Midland model ER310. I have been very impressed with its build, quality and features.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 2 жыл бұрын
Mine is a Kaito KA600. It uses different kinds of power cells.
@lisacox8109
@lisacox8109 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info
@johnstag2030
@johnstag2030 2 жыл бұрын
In a global catastrophe you need more than AM/FM, your emergency radio needs to also receive shortwave. The fact that the featured radio is not shortwave capable is an even more glaring flaw in an emergency radio than the lack or a replaceable battery port.
@3nertia
@3nertia 2 жыл бұрын
Yes; thank you! I was gonna post this but I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks this! What's REALLY stupid is that AM is basically shortwave anyway so I'm not sure why they couldn't just include *all 3* bands :/
@spcyakima1077
@spcyakima1077 2 жыл бұрын
I also can't stand the fact that the emergency crank radios that have shortwave don't have SSB. I mean, you can't listen to most HF amateur without SSB.
@glenmo1
@glenmo1 2 жыл бұрын
The reason they don't have shortwave SSB.. they would be prohibitively expensive for many people.... I have a shortwave radio from a top notch company it has SSB it's wall operated or D battery.. operated in its close to $200... Many people are not going to spend that kind of money for some emergency that may never happen.. most emergencies are going to be tornadoes or hurricanes blizzards similar to that which local am / fm would give you the necessary information locally that you need..
@3nertia
@3nertia 2 жыл бұрын
@@glenmo1 Just because manufacturers get away with charging outrageous prices doesn't mean that's what they actually *should* cost ....
@Bootyhunter1971
@Bootyhunter1971 2 жыл бұрын
I agree you NEED a sw radio, but, for an emergency radio for short term power outtages or to put in a get home bag or keep in your vehicle, am/fm/noaa will suffice. Would have to be a MAJOR event to need SW in those applications.
@dawnbis5635
@dawnbis5635 6 ай бұрын
thanks for putting the links for other radios
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 6 ай бұрын
No probs
@KRAFTWERK2K6
@KRAFTWERK2K6 Жыл бұрын
This is why i like the Tecsun GR-88P. Its battery can be replaced just by removing a little plug. No soldering necessary. It can also be powered by 3x AA batteries. Sadly it has no solar charge option. But you can hook up a little USB Solar panel for charging phones, as it comes with an USB-AC adapter cable. So it can be even powered by a Powerbank too or the USB port of a computer. I just wish they would still produce the normal GR88 model again, instead of the GR88P with DSP radiochip with that choppy band scanning.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing your hands-on experience on this!
@turbofiat
@turbofiat 9 ай бұрын
I stumbled upon your video while doing a search on wind up radios in general. I bought one of those radios but it's a bit different than the one you have. The one I got is called a Grey Ghost. The body looks similar in style and color but the buttons and knobs are different. Mine has the same 18650 lithium ion battery but it has a connector on it. My daughter had a Bluetooth speaker and one of the kids threw and wrecked it and I noticed it used the same battery as this radio and the same connector. So I have a second battery I can swap out. I have listened to this radio for several hours while sleeping and it will play I know for about 14 hours straight before it's down to one LED (25% charge I'm assuming) out of four indicator lights. That is with the volume less than halfway, not cranked up. Yes I like to sleep listening to music so I thought I'd test it out to see how long it would actually play on a full charge. Mine has four small blue LED lights below the display that repeat as it's charging. And I assume each LED indicates 25%. isn't What's odd is that lithium battery should hold a charge at least a year if not longer. I've pulled lithium batteries out of vapes and after a year they are still above 3.7 nominal voltage. I'm going to get mine out and see if it still has a charge to it.
@christinegerard4974
@christinegerard4974 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this precious video !
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
My pleasure, thanks for watching it
@christopherleubner6633
@christopherleubner6633 9 ай бұрын
One thing you could do is reuse a vaporizer pen battery to replace the lithium battery and stuff it in where the bad one was. The best ones have a USB charger built in, have a solar battery maintainer, a crank and a place to put in 3 AAs or AAAs for emergency. The output of the crank is enough to power it, but you should add a caoacitor to smooth the voltage. The best ones have a 3 phase generator rather than a toy motor inside. So far i got 3 of these. One of wich has short wave and TV bands as well as simple AM FM weather.
@owps663
@owps663 2 жыл бұрын
So true and while I agree, admittedly when I first decided to move from a passive semi prep'r to a serious commited prep'r it quickly became apparent that I couldn't afford so many of the thing's necessary to give my family peace of mind. So in the line of thinking as you stated anything is better than nothing I reached for all the off the rack bargains I could find with just such item's. Then after having a foundation as shoddy as it was I gradually started upgrading in quality two or three item's each year. That was several year's ago and now most of the time in adding to the tool's and supplies necessary for survival cost is no longer such a hindrance. While now I have more financial flexibility and seek out quality as the main stay I still pick up some of the cheap stuff and refere to it as disposable. The reason being I still like the dollar stuff is because it's cheap I can get a lot of it, throw it into a little emergency bag and throw it in the kid's and grand kid's car trunks aswell as friend's that give no thought to what if scenarios. That cheap hand crank radio might only work once then break, but that once it did work could very well save somebody's life some day.
@techtinkerin
@techtinkerin 2 жыл бұрын
Interesting, I'd just cut that battery off and solder on a ultra capacitor. Perhaps it has a small constant current draw but a switch could eliminate that. 👍❤️😊
@Liberteabelle
@Liberteabelle Жыл бұрын
Well DANG I just ordered a cheapo. Guess I’ll get the better one and return the old one. Thx for setting me straight, man!
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching CJ!
@donh4750
@donh4750 2 жыл бұрын
Good thing I know what I'm doing.... And talk about going cheap... I got one very similar to that for free by clicking on an offer that included the radio and then cancelling the subscription before they charged me a month later.
@toml.8210
@toml.8210 Жыл бұрын
I have this radio in the video. I must be an improved version. It has a 3-cell Lithium ion battery that you could easily change. It works fine, but you need to manually tune everything, including the weather stations. The small 600 mAh battery is fine for listening for a short time, but I prefer to connect a power bank for longer periods (besides listening to the weather for a minute, or using the LED light.) If you think you want to listen to radio for a long time, get a radio with a bigger battery, or a USB power/charging connection. This radio would be fine to use, until you get your emergency gear bag or some stuff set up.
@jfilm7466
@jfilm7466 2 жыл бұрын
I've also got UV-5Rs with AA battery adapters.
@stevecookson3201
@stevecookson3201 2 жыл бұрын
I have an Eton Scorpion II and it works fine almost exact feature as your radio, but looks like a bit better quality. My radio ariel is a tad wonky due to use but have had it at least 3 years.. 1 hurricane and 2 blizzards and its done it's job.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
I've heard much better things about Eton than the model in the vid. Thanks!
@allihenderson7955
@allihenderson7955 2 жыл бұрын
Just love this
@ChrisBrown-fs6kl
@ChrisBrown-fs6kl 2 жыл бұрын
This is the reason to have multiple usb power bricks. I designed my electronic preps around usb power. I have about a dozen usb power bricks that run or recharge lights, fans, radios and other 5 volt gadgets like handheld gps devices. And the next step in the chain are a couple of 12 batteries that I recharge the power bricks with or whatever. The 12v batteries are usually being trickle charged by house current, but should the power go out, and i depleat one of the 12 volt batteries, I can start using the second one while I recharge the depleted one with either my gas generator, automobile, or 200 watt solar panels. I have been out of power for a week after a major hurricane. I was able to juggle my devices and charging with plenty of breathing room. I am now confident that I can go a month or more without power. The solar panels are on the roof ov my van, so if I have to bug out, the solar solution comes with my.
@arjovenzia
@arjovenzia 2 жыл бұрын
I think the key take-away here is standardisation. the more devices you can have on the same platform the better. USB is a pretty good one, you can do an awful lot with USB power. I have personally gone with 18650's in EVERYTHING. the battery holders are cheap as, and the batteries can be salvaged from all over the place, old laptops and power tools are the best. often one cell will be cactus and the rest mediocre, but more than enough for a few lights or radios. Im pretty proficient electronically, and can bodge just about anything portable to run on 18650's. judicious application of tape may be involved, but she'll go. even my cordless soldering iron runs on 18650's. the protection PCB's are under a dollar when you buy a bunch, same with the holders. worth having spares on hand. ive only smoked 2 of the controllers, and ive not been kind to them, pretty happy. the model I use can be easily modded to output ~3.5v (2xAA), 5v (3xAA, USB) 6v (4xAA) or 12v. its just a resistor change, so, just about any voltage, but it does not like high currents at the higher voltages. my concern is that whilst AA alkaline are ubiquitous, there is a finite supply of them. sure, there are NiMH, and how long do you really need? but worst case, there are A LOT of 18650's out there to be salvaged, and with a small solar panel you can charge quite a few in a day. its a bit of a chore, but no wire and a brace of full 18650's makes placing your solar panel well pretty useful n easy. power for ever. I size my lights so usually a single cell will last most of the night, but there is always box of fresh ones, and if you do want a bigger light, thats easy to do to, just takes more batts. if your willing to sacrifice some ergonomics, some fun things can be done once your comfortable with messing with lithium cells. run a Nintendo DS for 3 weeks without a charge? no problem. a week out of a tablet? no worries. often I find modern 'slim' designed objects are made to small to be practical. my tablet is a prime example. out of the box, its beautiful. but its so damn slippery, ya cant hold onto it. cant rest it anywhere, cos its so damn slippery. so you put it in a leather case. suddenly its as big as my tablet from 10 years ago. still kinda unstable tho. slap a few 18650's on it, sure, dont fit in your bag so great, but it'll run for days, and sit up very stable. and you can just plonk in new cells when it runs low.
@SteveChippyPaine
@SteveChippyPaine 6 ай бұрын
I got one of these. I was impressed with the efficiency. 50mW. It will go for a couple of days non stop on a charge. My variant of this doesn't appear to lose its charge but that highlights the main problem here... variations. You never know whether you're going to get a good or bad version when you buy it. I was lucky but it seems althat many others aren't.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 6 ай бұрын
Had to upgrade, you’re right!
@mistastabs5840
@mistastabs5840 2 жыл бұрын
Try this one, I run maintenance on all my gear and electronics twice a year. I've had great luck with this radio "Service Survival Battery Powered Radio - 2000mAh Shortwave Radio - NOAA Weather Radio - Radios Portable AM FM - Wind Radio Emergency with USB Phone Charger - Camping Gear - Hand Crank Radio " 39.99. Has never died when needed.
@wisteela
@wisteela 2 жыл бұрын
Great advice
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching sir
@abbeyl6115
@abbeyl6115 2 жыл бұрын
Have had one many years ago living off grid on a mountain via financially homeless. Winter weather often rendered solar charging as not always the greatest option as I was in an rv with lots of trees on my south window on the days I could get sun. And the radio had to be moved the other part of a sun day if I was lucky enough to get one..to help out with the charge. The winter days shorter. At someone's request, when I got housed, I reluctantly but ended up happy giving it to that person. Am going to order two maybe three of these radios. While two are charging in maybe extreme low light conditions, I can listen to a fully charged radio with more solar power charge time on it. When I did purchase the AA (one or two)batteries, I could not tell if my solar was being used first or the battery. No indicator lights. The handcrank reviews alerted me to a breakage possibility. As careful as I was, a whole lot of energy put forth to garner only a few week minutes of radio power...as for me solar deck lights. They charge faster in the Off position. But again, never sure if it is the battery or solar power the unit is relying on. I noe live in an apartment and charging anything solar is limited. Am limited mostly charges through tinted afternoon yet stronger sunny afternoon windows. And the biggest experiment my former homeless campers decided to take out the AAs out of my solar deck lights to run their gadgets then to see if putting back in the solar deck lights would recharge. It does not. Valuable lessons of curiosity learn. Being stuck homeless a few years(financial and not an addict) had many mixed blessings and valuable lessons learned at any given moment. Am geared up physically again for me and my pet with first an at home designated kitchen pantry...going again off grid not much problems anticipated. If needed, have a granny ER cart(might switch out to a rolling duffle bag and window shopping right now to check durability of wheels). And just a few more supplies and if needed, am ready to go. Advised both of my daughters with several kids each, they live in different states with constant fire danger zones, to have the prepacked backpacks and supplies like dispers on wheels. Carries extra loads than by hand and can end up saving valuable precious time even if it ends up the $25 carts might not fit in their vans and then ditched, at least they saved time in extra loading up trips back and forth to their vans.
@WinterLoveSpirit
@WinterLoveSpirit 3 ай бұрын
I've got a 5 way powered one. My issue is when I first got it , I could get the weather broadcast station. Now I can't get it on the 5 way or my 3 way.
@glenmo1
@glenmo1 2 жыл бұрын
Price point is an important consideration with most people not only they don't want to spend a lot of money for something they rarely would use... They may want to buy multiple radios for multiple locations perhaps keep one even inside their vehicle or perhaps in every vehicle they own multiple vehicles.. so they really don't want to spend a lot of money on a top quality radio when something like this will serve them fine...
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
I think it’s perfect for a bag. I can’t stomach spending over 60 for something I’d rarely use as you stated
@squirrelcovers6340
@squirrelcovers6340 2 жыл бұрын
I have that exact model of radio. It charges all 3 ways and has a charger, it works everytime. I've had it for 6 years.. It was $14.99 on Amazon. Don't know why you're knocking it.
@RS4393
@RS4393 2 жыл бұрын
Great info.
@mynameisnobody5462
@mynameisnobody5462 2 жыл бұрын
Get a Tucson multi band for 20 bucks and rechargeable batteries then get an antenna extender , you can pick up way more stuff than that POS . I picked up a Romanian channel from the US . Plus the radio has all the emergency channels.
@greghinerman5935
@greghinerman5935 2 жыл бұрын
I have an old school Walkman... AM, FM, tv channels 2-13.... audio only... uses 1 AA battery... lasts several days when using it... I use it all the time when hiking... being careful , using it sparingly , I could get a month, maybe couple months on a battery... downside - no speaker... need earbuds, or a small speaker to plug in
@DavidGS66
@DavidGS66 2 жыл бұрын
I had the crank powered Red Cross radio/LED & quality was good.
@timtimtimmay4654
@timtimtimmay4654 2 жыл бұрын
Same thing happened to mine, and it wasn't very cheap. Many of them have the same pos battery. Now that you mention it, I'll probably solder a new battery into it.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 2 жыл бұрын
I'll keep mine for a bag and I got a Kaito instead
@veronicat6031
@veronicat6031 2 жыл бұрын
I had a Midland hand crank emergency weather radio with the features of the one shown and I can't say it enough....DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY! I charged it full by plugging into outlet and it did not last even 24 hours. Hand crank? Good luck...the handle broke after a very short period of cranking. Charge a phone? Lol! Nope. And solar power? Maybe if your walking on the sun...otherwise,forget about it. I strongly suggest if you have the money for the cheap one,save a few more bucks and get one that has "regular" battery backup. It's not worth it especially if your life could be depending on it. I am a new subscriber and always seeking knowledge. I find your channel helpful but I felt I had to pass on my experience with the weather radio. Thanks for sharing!
@rangerup1804
@rangerup1804 2 жыл бұрын
I was watching this video and it reminded me to charge up the battery in mine. Found the charging port was broken inside. Only way to charge it is by using the solar panel or wind it up.
@Leveraction-xr4uz
@Leveraction-xr4uz 2 жыл бұрын
I saw an article on these piece of junk radios. It said to fully charge the battery with the hand crank it takes roughly 15 hours of cranking. Maybe you can attach it to a Hamster wheel somehow to keep it charged. I will stick with Quality that I can see and touch at my local Hardware Store or Lowes/Home Depot!!! I DO MISS RADIO SHACK!
@WhatsUpWithSheila
@WhatsUpWithSheila 2 жыл бұрын
Yes I have the exact same radio.. and once the battery runs down you have to crank that baby four days... unfortunately a half-an-hour was all I could give it : (
@josephgee2515
@josephgee2515 2 жыл бұрын
Lol, that was my first NUB radio! Live and Learn. Are those false backing/ secret room/ compartment cabinets that you have behind you??
@mdrvid
@mdrvid Жыл бұрын
Which one should I get as someone who live in a city? Would love to see your review!
@allan500m
@allan500m 6 күн бұрын
I agree a replaceable battery is preferable. But since you already have the radio, it's not that difficult to glue a battery holder to the outside of the radio, cut the 2 internal battery wires, and then solder 2 wires to the external battery holder. But if you can fit a battery holder inside the radio (maybe for a slightly smaller size battery, with same voltage), then that will obviously be better.
@user-xk9kf1tl9g
@user-xk9kf1tl9g 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much 🥰
@betod3113
@betod3113 Жыл бұрын
What's a good emergency or ham radio for 2023 in case a power grid happens? Cuz am thinking of buying one or 2 to have..
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
Kaito has some great brands, I personally have the Voyager
@cyberyogicowindler2448
@cyberyogicowindler2448 Жыл бұрын
My crank radio (same model, different version) stopped working after 1 year non-use because the slide switch oxidizes (made no reception anymore, only noise). After failed resoldering (didn't help) I poured Isopropanol into the switch and played Decathlon on it (slide it quickly 20 times) and now the radio works again! My version has only AM/FM (no NOAA), round power-out jack and the battery pack is made of (if I remember correctly) 3x tiny NiMH cells in green shrinksleeve that has a plugged cable but is still no standard part at all. Regard that the plastic may decompose by sunlight, thus do not keep it on the window sill for recharging by solar. (Mine waits in the dark of an EMP shielding cookie can for the soon approaching nuclear war.)
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tips Cyberyogi
@87Ahoff87
@87Ahoff87 Жыл бұрын
I just bought this one on Amazon. It's had a TON of good reviews. Over 16k 4.5 stars. I'll be returning it after watching your vid. 😂
@lukepippin4781
@lukepippin4781 5 ай бұрын
I have to crank mine every 3-5 minutes. Same radio. I’m getting into electronics, and I just might upgrade this little radio as a learning project.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 5 ай бұрын
Perfect little device to practice on!
@jpawhees
@jpawhees 6 ай бұрын
These solar crank radio flashlight usb battery banks also need a non detachable but yet pull outable arc lighter in it. Gives a reliable source of firestarter. Preferably double ark type on a pull outable rod.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness 6 ай бұрын
There you go!
@francoismorin8721
@francoismorin8721 Жыл бұрын
Thanks for pointing out.
@PracticalPreparedness
@PracticalPreparedness Жыл бұрын
No worries!
@xyanide1986
@xyanide1986 Жыл бұрын
Grabbed one recently that has a removable lithium battery and AA battery option.
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