7 Best Walkie Talkies for Hunting Reviewed by Experts

As an avid hunter, I know firsthand how crucial reliable communication is when you’re out in the wild. I’ve been in situations where cell service was non-existent, and having a dependable walkie talkie meant the difference between a smooth hunt and a potentially risky or frustrating one. Whether you’re coordinating with your hunting party across a dense forest, tracking game, or just ensuring everyone stays safe, the right two-way radio is an essential piece of gear. Over the years, I’ve tested quite a few models, enduring various weather conditions and terrains, to figure out what truly works when it matters most. In this guide, I’m going to share my insights on some of the best walkie talkies for hunting available today, covering everything from compact, easy-to-use options to powerful ham radios, so you can make an informed decision for your next expedition.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies Rechargeable, Voice Activated,…	View on Amazon
	Rechargeable Walkie Talkies Long Range: MaxTalker MT-8S…	View on Amazon
	Baofeng Radio Ham Radio Long Range AR-5RM 10W Handheld…	View on Amazon
	Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkies,Army Toys for 6-12 Year…	View on Amazon
	Baofeng UV-5R Radio Ham Radio Handheld Long Range UV5R…	View on Amazon
	BAOFENG UV-5R Radios Walkie Talkies Long Range Ham Radio…	View on Amazon
	Profressional Walkie Talkies for Adults, Rechargeable Two…	View on Amazon

1. Retevis RT22 Walkie Talkies Rechargeable, Voice Activated

The Retevis RT22 radios are an excellent choice for hunters who need a straightforward, compact communication device for shorter-range coordination. I’ve found these particularly useful for small groups staying within a mile or two of each other in moderately open terrain. Their small size makes them incredibly easy to slip into a pocket or attach to a belt without adding bulk, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to move stealthily. The VOX function is a standout feature, allowing for hands-free communication – invaluable when you’re holding your rifle or binoculars. The emergency alarm also adds a layer of safety, making them a solid pick for general outdoor activities.

• Portable size with compact design
• VOX function for hands-free communication
• Comes in a 4-pack with dual chargers and rechargeable Li-ion batteries
• Emergency alarm feature
• Usable out of the box with squelch function
• FCC ID: 2AAR8RT22 compliant

Pros:
– Very compact and lightweight
– Easy to use right out of the box
– VOX feature is great for hands-free operation
– Good value as a multi-pack
– Emergency alarm for safety

Cons:
– Limited range compared to more powerful options
– Not designed for extreme long-distance communication
– Battery life might not be sufficient for multi-day trips without recharging

Best for: Small hunting parties needing close-range, easy-to-use communication, or for general group coordination where extended range isn’t the primary concern.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate the compact size and ease of use, noting they are great for family outings and basic communication. The sound quality is often praised as clear, though some find the range can be shorter in dense urban or heavily wooded environments than advertised.

2. Rechargeable Walkie Talkies Long Range: MaxTalker MT-8S

When I’m venturing into areas with mixed terrain, the MaxTalker MT-8S has proven to be a reliable companion. These radios strike a great balance between portability and performance. What really sets them apart for hunting is their upgraded earpiece with an Air Acoustic Tube, which delivers crystal-clear sound even in noisy environments and is comfortable enough for long wear. This is crucial for discreet communication in the field. The stated range of up to 4 miles in open areas is quite decent for many hunting scenarios, and the independent chip ensures a stable signal. The 1500mAh rechargeable battery also provides ample power for a full day’s hunt.

• Compact and slim design with 16 channels
• Features VOX, 0-9 level noise reduction, busy channel lockout, low battery alert
• Durable 1500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery (8-12 hours use)
• Long range up to 4 miles in open areas with stable signal
• Upgraded earpiece with Air Acoustic Tube for clear sound and comfort
• Includes 2 walkie talkies, batteries, chargers, belt clips, hand straps, and user manual

Pros:
– Comfortable and clear earpiece is excellent for discreet hunting
– Good stated long range for many outdoor activities
– Solid battery life for day-long use
– Durable build and stable signal
– Great value for a feature-rich pair

Cons:
– Actual range will vary significantly in dense woods
– Some users might prefer more advanced programming options
– Only 2 units per pack, requiring multiple purchases for larger groups

Best for: Hunters seeking good range and privacy with comfortable earpieces, suitable for varied terrain and longer day trips.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight the excellent sound quality, especially with the included earpiece, and the robust battery life. They are generally seen as easy to operate and a good choice for outdoor activities, though like most radios, range is impacted by obstructions.

3. Baofeng Radio Ham Radio Long Range AR-5RM 10W Handheld

Now, if you’re serious about long-range communication and are willing to invest in a more powerful system (and potentially a license), the Baofeng AR-5RM is a beast. This is a professional ham radio, meaning it operates on frequencies that often require an FCC license to transmit legally. However, for those with the appropriate licensing, the 10W power output offers significantly extended range and penetration through challenging terrain compared to FRS/GMRS radios. The NOAA Weather Receiver is an absolute lifesaver for hunters, providing critical weather alerts in remote areas. With multiple charging methods (USB-C and base charger) and a high-quality speaker mic, it’s designed for rugged outdoor use.

• Professional Ham Radio with wide receiving frequency range (108-520MHZ) and transmitting range (144-148MHZ, 420-450MHZ)
• Up to 999 storage channels and a 1.77-inch large color screen
• Multiple charging methods: USB-C, US Base Charger, and 2500mAh rechargeable battery
• Frequency Copy function for easy pairing
• NOAA Weather Receiver for essential weather alerts
• High Quality Speaker Mic for clear, hands-free communication
• FCC ID: 2AJGM-5RM, includes programming cable, various antennas, and earpieces

Pros:
– Exceptional power (10W) for extended range
– NOAA weather alerts are critical for safety
– Versatile charging options, including USB-C
– Large channel capacity and programming flexibility
– Comprehensive package with many accessories

Cons:
– Requires an amateur radio license (Ham Radio License) to transmit legally in the US. This is a significant consideration.
– Can be more complex to operate for beginners due to advanced features
– Larger and heavier than FRS/GMRS radios

Best for: Experienced hunters or those willing to get their amateur radio license, needing maximum range, advanced features, and critical weather information in the backcountry.

User feedback summary: Users with ham radio licenses are generally very impressed with the power and range of the AR-5RM. The NOAA weather feature is frequently praised, as are the various charging options. Some beginners find the programming curve steep but appreciate the included accessories.

4. Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkies, Army Toys for 6-12 Year

Okay, let’s be upfront here: the Retevis RT628 is marketed as a kids’ walkie talkie, and it absolutely shines in that role. While not designed for serious, long-range adult hunting communication, I’m including it with a specific nuance. If you’re hunting with family and need a simple, durable way for younger family members to communicate around the camp, or for general outdoor play while you’re focused on the hunt, these could fit a very specific, limited need. They are easy to operate, have a crystal voice, and feature 22 channels with CTCSS/DCS for privacy. For keeping track of kids around the hunting lodge or nearby, they are fine, but do not expect these to be your primary hunting communication device for adult group coordination in the field.

• Easy to operate for kids
• Crystal voice and camouflage color
• 22 channels with CTCSS/DCS for privacy
• LCD display for use in dark environments
• Keypad lock feature to prevent accidental operation
• Compatible with other Retevis RT628 units on the same channel

Pros:
– Extremely easy for children to use
– Lightweight and durable for kids’ play
– Good for close-range communication around a camp or property
– Keypad lock prevents accidental changes
– Affordable

Cons:
– Not suitable for adult hunting communication in the field (limited power, range, and durability for rugged hunting conditions)
– Battery life is often less than adult-focused radios
– Range is significantly shorter than professional-grade hunting walkie talkies

Best for: Providing simple communication for children in a hunting camp setting or for general family outdoor recreation; not recommended as a primary communication tool for adult hunters in the field.

User feedback summary: Parents love these for kids’ outdoor play and family trips, praising their simplicity and clear sound. They are consistently described as fun and functional for children, but users understand they are not high-performance radios.

5. Baofeng UV-5R Radio Ham Radio Handheld Long Range UV5R

The Baofeng UV-5R is an absolute legend in the radio community, and for good reason. It’s an incredibly versatile and affordable ham radio, known for its robust features and customizable nature. Like its AR-5RM cousin, this radio operates on amateur bands and generally requires an FCC license for transmission. For hunters, its ability to support CHIRP and keypad programming means you can tailor frequencies and settings to your specific needs. It’s lauded as a great emergency radio, perfect for situations where cell service drops out. The dual display/dual standby feature is handy, allowing you to monitor two frequencies simultaneously. It’s a solid, budget-friendly option for licensed users who want more control and range than standard consumer radios.

• VFO and Memory channels, Dual display / Dual standby/ Auto Keypad Lock
• FCC ID: 2AJGM-UV5R
• Supports CHIRP and Keypad Programming
• Suitable for various outdoor activities including hunting, camping, and emergency use
• Package includes 2 radios, 1800mAh Li-ion batteries, chargers, belt clips, slings, earpieces, and manual

Pros:
– Highly customizable and programmable
– Excellent value for a ham radio
– Dual-band monitoring is very useful
– Great as an emergency communication device
– Wide accessory availability

Cons:
– Requires an amateur radio license to transmit legally.
– Can have a learning curve for programming and advanced features
– Battery life (1800mAh) might be less than higher-capacity models

Best for: Licensed amateur radio operators or those planning to get a license, who need a versatile, powerful, and affordable radio for hunting and general emergency preparedness.

User feedback summary: Users, particularly those familiar with ham radios, praise the UV-5R’s versatility, durability, and customization options. It’s often recommended as a beginner ham radio and a reliable backup for outdoor adventures.

6. BAOFENG UV-5R Radios Walkie Talkies Long Range Ham Radio

This is another listing for the ever-popular Baofeng UV-5R, emphasizing its long-range capabilities and ham radio identity. It reinforces what makes the UV-5R a consistent favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, including hunters. The 128 memory channels and dual-watch/dual standby features are excellent for keeping track of multiple group members or monitoring weather frequencies. I particularly like the inclusion of VOX hands-free operation and a flashlight, which are both incredibly practical in hunting scenarios – whether you’re stalking quietly or navigating in low light. Again, remember that this is a ham radio and transmission on its frequencies typically requires a license.

• Baofeng Ham Radio (TX Frequency Range: 144-148/420-450Mhz, FCC ID: 2AJGM-UV5R)
• Up to 128 memory channels, dual-watch/dual standby, H/L power selectable
• Functional Radio with good battery life, clear sound, Emergency Alarm, SQL, VOX Hands Free, Scanning, Flashlight, Keyboard Lock, CHIRP Compatible, CTCSS/DCS
• Multi-Scenario Apply: Camping, Hunting, Cruise, Trip, Fishing, Hiking, Biking, Patrols, etc.
• Package includes 2 radios with original antennas, 1800mAh rechargeable batteries, headphones, desktop chargers, belt clips, hand straps, and English manual

Pros:
– Reliable and durable for outdoor use
– Excellent array of useful features for hunting (VOX, flashlight, emergency alarm)
– Dual-band and dual-standby functionality
– Good sound quality and battery life for its class
– Highly customizable with CHIRP compatibility

Cons:
– Requires an amateur radio license to transmit legally.
– Programming can be complex without a cable and software
– Not as “plug and play” as FRS radios

Best for: Licensed ham radio enthusiasts and serious hunters who need a feature-rich, long-range communication device for various challenging outdoor conditions.

User feedback summary: Consistent with other UV-5R feedback, users praise its robustness, functionality, and value for money. The flashlight and VOX features are often highlighted as practical benefits for outdoor use, and it’s seen as a reliable communication tool.

7. Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults, Rechargeable Two

These professional walkie talkies for adults bring a lot to the table for hunters. What immediately catches my eye is the bold yellow faceplate for high visibility, which might seem counter-intuitive for camouflage, but it’s a huge safety feature if you drop it or need to quickly locate it in low light. The 36 channels and 142 CTCSS tones offer plenty of options to find a clear, private line of communication. Critically for hunting, they include NOAA Weather Channels with an automatic scan feature to keep you safe from unexpected weather changes. Their stated long-range coverage up to 5 KM in wooded areas is impressive and makes them a strong contender for effective communication in challenging hunting environments. The Type-C USB charging is also a modern convenience I always appreciate.

• Enhanced Communication: 36 channels and 142 sets of CTCSS tones (3,124 channel options)
• Convenient Rechargeable Design: Built-in rechargeable battery with Type-C USB charging, VOX with 3 sensitivity levels
• High Visibility: Bold yellow faceplate
• NOAA Weather Channels with automatic scan feature
• Long Range Coverage: Up to 10 KM at sea, 5 KM in wooded areas, 2 KM in town
• 3.5mm Jack Headset Compatible

Pros:
– Excellent range specifically stated for wooded areas
– NOAA weather alerts for safety
– Type-C USB charging is highly convenient
– Plenty of channel and privacy code options
– High visibility design aids in locating the radio

Cons:
– Yellow faceplate might not appeal to all hunters who prioritize stealth
– “Professional” may imply GMRS, which would require a license (check specific model for FCC type)
– Built-in battery might not be easily swapped in the field

Best for: Hunters who prioritize good range in wooded environments, critical weather alerts, modern charging convenience, and don’t mind a high-visibility device for safety.

User feedback summary: Users generally find these walkie talkies to be feature-rich and reliable. The NOAA weather alerts and Type-C charging are frequently praised, and many find the range in varied terrain to be quite good for non-ham radios.

Comparison Insights for Hunting

When you’re comparing the best walkie talkies for hunting, several factors should stand out, especially concerning how they perform in the field.

Range and Terrain: For pure, unadulterated range in open areas, the Baofeng AR-5RM (10W) stands head and shoulders above the rest, assuming you have the proper license. The Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults also boast an impressive 5 KM in wooded areas, which is a more realistic metric for many hunting grounds. FRS radios like the Retevis RT22 are best for shorter distances in close-knit groups. Remember, any “long range” claim will be significantly reduced by trees, hills, and other obstructions.

Hands-Free Operation (VOX): This feature is a game-changer for hunting. Both the Retevis RT22 and the MaxTalker MT-8S offer solid VOX functionality, allowing you to keep your hands on your gear or weapon. The Baofeng UV-5R models also include VOX, providing flexibility.

Weather Alerts: For safety, NOAA Weather Channels are invaluable. Both the Baofeng AR-5RM and the Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults include this feature, giving you crucial warnings when you’re out in unpredictable conditions. This can literally be a lifesaver.

Battery Life and Charging: Look for radios with rechargeable Li-ion batteries and flexible charging options. The Baofeng AR-5RM leads with multiple charging methods, including USB-C, making it easy to charge from a power bank in the field. The Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults also feature Type-C USB charging, which is incredibly convenient. The MaxTalker MT-8S offers a respectable 8-12 hours of use, good for a full day.

Ease of Use vs. Features: If you want something incredibly simple to pick up and use, the Retevis RT22 is your best bet. If you’re looking for advanced features, programmability, and are willing to learn (and potentially get licensed), the Baofeng UV-5R or AR-5RM offer a lot more capability.

Legal Considerations: This is a big one. The Baofeng AR-5RM and both Baofeng UV-5R models are ham radios. To transmit on their full power and frequencies, you need an amateur radio license from the FCC. FRS (Family Radio Service) radios like the Retevis RT22 and likely the MaxTalker MT-8S and Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults (check their FCC certifications) can be used license-free. Always confirm the specific regulatory requirements for your chosen device, especially for the best walkie talkies for hunting that offer higher power.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best walkie talkies for hunting really boils down to your specific needs, group size, and the terrain you’ll be covering.

• For the Casual Hunter or Small Group on a Budget: The Retevis RT22 is a fantastic, no-frills option for close-range communication that’s simple to use and won’t break the bank.
• For the Serious Hunter Needing Range and Features (License-Free): The MaxTalker MT-8S stands out for its comfortable earpiece and decent stated range, while the Professional Walkie Talkies for Adults impress with NOAA alerts, USB-C charging, and strong wooded-area range. These are likely your top choices if you want power without the ham radio license requirement.
• For the Expert Hunter or Licensed Enthusiast: The Baofeng AR-5RM and the Baofeng UV-5R models are unrivaled in terms of power, range, and customization. If you’re willing to obtain your amateur radio license, these provide the most robust communication options for challenging environments.

Ultimately, prioritize range that matches your hunting area, battery life for your trip duration, and features that enhance safety and coordination (like NOAA or VOX). Invest wisely, and you’ll have a reliable communication tool that can make all the difference in the field.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the most important feature to look for in the best walkie talkies for hunting?
A1: For hunting, range and signal penetration in varied terrain (especially wooded areas) are paramount. Other crucial features include battery life, hands-free operation (VOX), and for safety, NOAA weather alerts.

Q2: Do I need a license to use walkie talkies for hunting?
A2: It depends on the type of walkie talkie. FRS (Family Radio Service) radios can be used license-free. However, GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios and Ham (Amateur) Radios typically require an FCC license to transmit. Many of the more powerful models considered the best walkie talkies for hunting, especially Baofeng models, are ham radios and require a license. Always check the specific model’s FCC classification.

Q3: How far can walkie talkies actually reach in the woods?
A3: Real-world range is significantly impacted by obstructions like trees, hills, and dense foliage. While manufacturers might advertise ranges of “up to 30 miles” in open conditions, in dense woods, this can drop to 1-5 miles for consumer-grade radios. High-power ham radios, like the Baofeng AR-5RM, might achieve better penetration.

Q4: Is VOX (Voice Activated Transmission) useful for hunting?
A4: Absolutely! VOX is incredibly useful for hunting as it allows for hands-free communication. This means you can talk without pressing a button, keeping your hands free for your rifle, binoculars, or other gear, which is essential for stealth and safety in the field.

Q5: What’s the deal with Baofeng radios being “ham radios”?
A5: Baofeng radios like the UV-5R and AR-5RM are designed for use on amateur radio frequencies. While they can often receive other frequencies, transmitting on their full power output requires an Amateur Radio (Ham) License issued by the FCC in the United States. Using them to transmit without a license on these frequencies is technically illegal, although they are popular for their robust features and affordability.

Q6: Should I get a walkie talkie with NOAA weather alerts for hunting?
A6: Yes, if possible. NOAA weather channels provide real-time alerts for severe weather, which can be critical for safety when you’re in remote hunting areas with no cell service. Unexpected storms, heavy rain, or sudden temperature drops can be dangerous, and these alerts can give you time to seek shelter or adjust your plans.

Q7: Can I use different brands of walkie talkies together for hunting?
A7: Generally, FRS and GMRS radios from different brands can communicate with each other if they are set to the same channel and privacy code (CTCSS/DCS). Ham radios operate on different principles and usually require specific frequency programming, but once programmed, can communicate with other ham radios on the same frequency. Ensure all your best walkie talkies for hunting are compatible.