I just re-read the CM08 requirement and see that I will need a CB to accompany my HAM rig. I want something inexpensive, small, yet durable. The purpose for the CB will be primarily to communicate with trail leaders that don't have a HAM rig. I have not owned a CB in about 20 years so I am rather clueless on the subject. Any suggestions?
Uniden 510 or similar. Cheap from Radio Shack. 18' coax, whip antenna or Firestik. I'm going to get an SWR meter pretty soon for tuning purposes, pretty useful thing to have (I think it works for Amateur too, in case you ever need to do diagnostic work), but that should get you by for CM req's!
I have a Uniden 520, pretty much the same thing. Bulletproof. Radio Service Center can tune them for you for improved output if you like. I have not done this.
Small case fits lots of places.
I've got a Midland 75-822 with the mobile adapter. It plugs into a 12v outlet for power. Then attach what ever exterior antenna you want. Its the only CB I've ever owned but has worked great. You get the added benefit of a handheld too.
I ended up buying a Uniden 510x directly from Uniden. they had a deal on B-stock units for $29.95. The warranty is 90 days, but in my experience electronics usually fail early on and for $40 delivered I could not pass it up.
Does anyone have an SWR meter I can use to tune the antenna?