One thing I have not seen discussed in this thread is the question as to whether having a ¡°better¡± antenna really helps with the Baofeng, at least with the original UV-5R. The radio has the selectivity of a Barn Door, and is very sensitive to interference. For other radios, including my VX8-DR, I often use a generic 1/4 wave, which improves the radios sensitivity, and ability to hit repeaters on the other side of a ridge near me. Adding that same antenna to the Baofeng causes local noise, such as my LED light fixtures to overpower real signals.
I followed the advice in the UV5R faq at Miklor.com, and bought what was known as the $3.79 special, and I never looked back. The antenna helps provide some front end filtering, which the radio really needs. Later versions of the radio, especially from Baofeng Tech have gotten better, but the basic 5R works better with a less capable antenna.
I highly recommend you use an SMA to BNC connector on the radio, and buy BNC antennae. In your car, you can get a mag mount with a BNC connector, and try various antenna types on the mag mount. The BNC connector has a longer life than the SMA connector built into the radio, and is replaceable when it wears out. It also facilitates removal of your walk around antenna, and connection to your car.
I also recommend looking at Miklor.com for a useful FAQ, on all things BAOFENG.
Bill (AB1LZ)
Would you believe? Sent from my shoe phone's big brother and still no keyboard. Please excuse auto connections caused by typhoons.
