…. a couple of tips on using the Boateng UV5R or the UV5RTP 8 watt version… this is the original and most popular model.
1. Ditch the short ducky that cme with the radio, it’s not very efficient. …and get a long flexible antenna like the Signal Stick or Nagoya 771 (genuine)
2. Get a 3800mah battery… they are cheap, are sold in pairs, and they have USB-C charging allowing you to charge your radio when in the car, just as you would with a cellphone… fully charged these batteries will last you over 2 days…mine lasted 3 but I wouldn’t push it. The battery also makes your radio 6″ long… that’s almost a perfect 1/4 wave on 440… this make a big difference on UHF antenna efficiency.
3. I purchased the TWAYRADIO RH660S (5/8?) long antenna for 2m… it works as advertised and offers 10-12 db improvement over shorter antennas in an online shootout. Although I don’t have any fancy test gear I did confirm it makes a noticable difference.