WSFA388

I live in a hilly section of a suburb, with houses and trees. To my east is the top of a hill that is against a plain. To my west directly behind my house is a small rise. To my west is hills. I can receive from the east and the south but I am not hearing anything from the west or north and a only a little from the south.

I thought since I am in an obstructed area this would help. I have a UV5R for a scanner, and I largely only receive from one direction. I am hoping the antenna upgrade will help.

I recently purchased a Wouxun KG-S65G as an entry into GMRS. I asked the "chat" for a recommendation for an upgrade on the antenna, and the Melowave Bandit G was recommended. I recently came across a video that noted there is a difference between high and low gain antennas, with if I recall correctly, low gain being better if you live in an obstructed area, which I think I do. The specs to the antenna are below. Is 2.15 dBi gain low or high? Is this antenna appropriate for a handheld in an obstructed area? Thanks! The Authentic Melowave Bandit-G is a GMRS antenna tuned for 462MHz frequencies on the GMRS. The Bandit-G works with portable handheld GMRS two way way radios. It is available in your choice of an SMA Male, SMA Female or BNC antenna connector. Genuine Melowave antenna 462-468 MHz Impedence 50 ohms 2.15 dBi gain V.S.W.R. ≦1.5:1 Wave: 1/2 λ Maximum power rating: 10 Watts Linear vertical polarization Height (approx.): 15.3 inches / 39.3 cm) Base Diameter (SMA Male): 0.43 inches / 11.1 mm) Base Diameter (SMA Female): 0.55 inches / 14.2 mm) Base Diameter (BNC Male): 0.56 inches / 14.4 mm) Operating temperature range: -22°F~185°F / -30°C~+85°C Very thin and flexible Available in your choice of SMA Male, SMA Female or BNC connector Model: Bandit-G Works with portable handheld GMRS two way radios equipped with a removable antenna.

Thank you that is helpful.

I'm new to GMRS and am looking to use a repeater. It is not clear to me when you can just use a repeater vs asking for permission. Could someone explain please. There seems to be to be more than one site that lists repeaters. What is the best way to understand that a repeater is available? Thanks!