Did your backcountry partner disappear around the bend in the couloir you're about to ski, and you're wondering if it's clear to drop in? Did a large foggy cloud just obscure your line of sight to the bottom where they're waiting? Have something you forgot to tell them? Solve these situations and more with the Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio, allowing communication in all sorts of terrain and conditions where it's otherwise tricky or impossible. This radio is rugged, durable, and easy to use. It's designed with climbers and skiers in mind and was developed to excel in the kinds of adverse conditions we see all winter. The specialized lithium-ion battery lasts over 4 days even when it's quite cold out. With an included caribiner and backup leash, it's hard to drop, but if you do, rest assured that the shatterproof LED front screen and thermoplastic protective coating can handle it. You can expect 1 to 5 miles of range while in the undulating mountainous terrain typical of the backountry. However, if the line of sight is clear, this 2 watt radio can transmit up to 35 miles. It's ready to go out of the box and easy to use with gloved hands. Radios are a great way to maintain communication throughout your tour, improve your safety margins, and ensure you have options when things deviate from the plan. Remember, you need a pair of them, unless you're content just broadcasting your thoughts into the void.
2 watt broadcast power allows for 1 to 5 miles of range in the mountains, the maximum allowed without a license.
IP56 rated for protection from snow and splashes.
Over 4 days of battery life down to -20°F with a 1550 mAh capacity.
Rechargeable with an included USB-C cable.
Supports standard RMS broadcast frequencies / privacy codes and is interoperable with other brands.
Simple, solid, beautiful are all words that come to mind while using this radio. It is very comfortable in hand. The way they made the carabiner and tether keeps it close to the body, limiting bounce, while simultaneously keeping it well out of the way of anything you may be doing in front of your chest (taking hydration and nutrition etc.) The radio seamlessly blends durability and lightness into a single complete package. The system of two points of securement to your pack (a bungie attachment at the bottom of the radio with a carabiner at the top) feels very secure. My only complaint would be this, setting up the radio channels is somewhat clunky, now this could be user error on my part but the buttons to do so and set the privacy channels are irritating. Final points: the battery life is insane! Even in very cold conditions, it lasts for longer than I could wish for. The range is also more than enough when traveling in a group, I have only heard of range issues from a friend who was trying to join up with his group while they were on opposite sides of the Cottonwood Ridge. I have never had any issues with range myself and lets be honest, if you started the day with your group, I just don't see a situation in which you would find yourselves that far apart with that much interference between you and the group. And finally, even without the mic attachment I find the built in one is plenty loud enough, even in high winds. Overall incredible product and will 100% be purchasing another when mine gives out.
Comment on this review:
1/31/2025
Question from
iain
Hi Skimo, If like to buy a Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio + compatible Rocky Talkie Hand Mic. Do you always have these tattoos in stock? I arrive into SLC on Feb 18th and will be staying in the Sugar House area for a few days. I plan to come by to buy myself a radio and perhaps a second for my buddy. Can you hold a product for me?
There are several privacy codes you can use for any given channel and you can toggle through them with the buttons on the radio. This video from Rocky Talkie will explain the process better than I can here through text!
Answer this question:
9/2/2023
Question from
Claudette Dockery
What is the most miles will the device transmits?
9/2/2023
Answer from
Gabriel I
Hi Claudette, per Rocky Talkie's site , "The radio transmits the maximum power legally allowed for use without a license (2-watts). The max range is over 25 miles, however, 1 to 5 miles is more typical in backcountry terrain."
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8/17/2023
Question from
Jeffrey Smith
does this come with an ear piece and can you use it hands free?
8/18/2023
Answer from
Gabriel I
Hi Jeffrey, it does not come with an ear piece out of the box, but it does have a standard K1 (dual pin 3.5mm-2.5mm) mic / speaker jack, so you can use a variety of accessories from Rocky Talkie or other third parties.
