Now that you own a shortwave radio, no doubt you’ll want to hear international broadcasts right away. If you’re new to shortwave, please take some time to learn the basics outlined in this guide. To successfully listen to shortwave stations, you must understand the concept of shortwave bands. If you’re an experienced shortwave listener, you’ll know what bands are and how to use them. But if you’re new to shortwave, you’ll need to learn about bands first. After that, you will have excellent success and enjoy hours of listening pleasure.
Introduction The most important concept to learn right away is that of shortwave bands. If you have ever listened to AM or FM radio, then you already know what a band is. The AM band is the frequency range stretching from 530 to 1710 kilohertz; the FM band is 88 to 108 megahertz. A band is simply a frequency range where stations are located. When you look for stations in these “bands”, you simply tune around with your tuning buttons (or the tuning knob on an analog radio) until you find a station that you can receive clearly. Shortwave is very similar in concept except that there are multiple shortwave bands named 25 meters, 31 meters, 49 meters, etc. (these are abbreviated as 25m, 31m and 49m respectively).
Just like with AM and FM radio, simply dial into a shortwave band and tune around for stations. For example, the 19 meter shortwave band encompasses the frequency range of 15100 to 15600 kilohertz. A helpful analogy may be to think of a shortwave band like a street with a full range of individual addresses on it. The 19 meter band could be called “19 Meter Street”. Like any street, “19 Meter Street” has a range of addresses that represent individual house numbers such as 15100, 15105, 15110, etc. In this case, a house number is actually a frequency, so by visiting a house you are going to a specific frequency or radio station. In the chart below is a list of the shortwave bands used for international shortwave broadcasts and their corresponding frequency ranges. Some radios show frequency in megahertz and some in kilohertz (abbreviated as MHz and KHz respectively), so both are shown on the chart. On some shortwave radios, frequencies will look like 15100 KHz, 15105 KHz or 15110 KHz, whereas on other radios they might look like 15.1 MHz, 15.105 MHz or 15.11 MHz. To determine which frequency designation your radio has for shortwave, look at your radio’s tuning scale, digital display, or owner’s manual. The exact frequency ranges for shortwave bands may vary from one radio model to another. This is completely normal and due to design differences among manufacturers and their radio models. On some radios, bands are clearly marked while on others they are not marked at all. If it is not apparent how to find and get into a band on your radio, consult the owner’s manual.
What are Bands? Shortwave Band Chart Day and Night Bands BAND MEGAHERTZ (MHz) KILOHERTZ (KHz) 120 m 2.300-2.500 MHz 2300- 2500 KHz 90 m 3.20-3.40 MHz 3200- 3400 KHz 75 m 3.90-4.00 MHz 3900- 4000 KHz 60 m 4.750-5.060 MHz 4750- 5060 KHz 49 m 5.950-6.20 MHz 5950- 6200 KHz 41 m 7.10-7.60 MHz 7100- 7600 KHz 31 m 9.20-9.90 MHz 9500- 9900 KHz 25 m 11.600-12.200 MHz 11600-12100 KHz 22 m 13.570-13.870 MHz 13570-13870 KHz 19 m 15.10-15.80 MHz 15100-15800 KHz 16 m 17.480-17.90 MHz 17480-17900 KHz 13 m 21.450-21.850 MHz 21450-21850 KHz 11 m 25.60-26.10 MHz 25600-26100 KHz Because shortwave signals depend on such factors as the sun, the ionosphere, and interaction with the earth itself, signals cannot be heard on all bands throughout the day. Some bands are best during the daylight hours, and some are best at night. In general, the bands with frequencies below 13 MHz (13000 KHz) are better at night and the bands with frequencies above 13 MHz (13000 KHz) are best during the day. Shown in the next sections are charts that list the characteristics of the major shortwave bands. Follow these guidelines for best listening results. Generally speaking, the best time for listening to shortwave, when signals are strongest and clearest, is the time around sunrise and sunset. Usually there’s a two-hour window for optimal listening, but it may extend up to three or four hours. To determine what’s best for you, experiment with different combinations of time and frequency.
Shortwave 101: How to Listen to World Radio Daytime Listening Nighttime Listening Shortwave Directories
Shortwave listening is generally at its poorest during the daylight hours from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. The major reason for this is that broadcasters are not transmitting to your region at this time, assuming that people are either at work or at school and unable to listen during the day. If you want to try daytime listening, use the guidelines in this chart. Typically, daytime shortwave tends to be poor in most parts of the world, but experiment to hear what it’s like in your area.
DAY BANDS CHARACTERISTICS 13m Results vary but worth trying. Sometimes extremely good around sunrise and sunset. 25m Best around sunrise and sunset. May be good mid-day in some areas. 49m The best overall night band. 31m Similar to 25m. 16m Similar to 19m. 19m The best overall daytime band. May also be good at night in summer months. Sometimes extremely good around sun rise and sunset. Sometimes good at night in the summer. 22m Similar to 19m. Shortwave listening is at its best in the evening because broadcasters are deliberately transmitting to your region. These bands may be particularly good around sunset and sunrise.
NIGHT BANDS CHARACTERISTICS 25m Similar to 31m. 31m Good all night everywhere. Often extremely good at sunrise and sunset. Good results often start about an hour before sunset. 41m Similar to 49m. Good all night worldwide. We recommend the use of a comprehensive shortwave directory with your radio, especially if you want to hear specific countries or figure the exact programming you are listening to. Directories usually alphabetically list the countries broadcasting on shortwave, programming, broadcast times, programming languages, target areas, and the frequencies used. The recommended shortwave directory is Passport to World Band Radio, which is available in major bookstores, at major online book retailers, and directly at www.passband.com. It lists English language broadcasts in the chapter “Worldwide Broadcasts in English,” and other language broadcasts in the chapter “Voices from Home.” In “The Blue Pages” chapter, a comprehensive frequency-by- frequency listing, can help you figure out what country you are listening to. Listed here is the contact information to find this directory as well as others: Passport to World Band Radio International Broadcasting Services, Ltd., Box 300 Penn’s Park, Pennsylvania 18943 (215) 598-9018 www.passband.com Monitoring Times Grove Enterprises 7540 Hwy 64 West Brasstown, NC 28902 (704) 837-9200 www.monitoringtimes.com Popular Communications CQ Communications 76 North Broadway Hicksville, NY 11801 (516) 681-2922 www.popular-communications.com
The military phonetic alphabet, also known as the NATO phonetic alphabet, is a standardized way to spell out words and numbers with precision and clarity. It’s used to communicate in noisy environments or over crackling radio lines. The 26 code words in the alphabet are:
Minimum age restrictions for the purchase of firearms and ammunition are a part of the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968:
You must be 18 years old to purchase shotgun and rifle ammunition.
You must be 21 years old to buy a handgun and other (non-rifle or shotgun) ammunition.
Keep in mind that these are the federal MINIMUM age restrictions.
Many local governments have even stricter standards. And some online retailers have their age restrictions.
Some State-Specific Restrictions
As mentioned above, many states and cities have enacted tighter restrictions.
Some of these added restrictions are due to public safety concerns.
Others are due to the difficulty of shipping hazardous materials, such as:
gun powders
primers
lead
So, let’s go over a few examples of more stringent state regulations when this article was published (you should look up your local regulations before you attempt to buy ammo online):
California
Many California cities, such as Beverly Hills, Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, do not allow the receipt of shipments of ammo.
Alaska
No online purchases of ammo or primer shipped from the continental US.
This limitation is primarily due to shipping concerns.
Hawaii
Like Alaska, no ammo or primer shipments due to shipping concerns.
Illinois
Chicago prohibits online purchases of ammunition altogether.
New York
All online ammunition orders must go to a local vendor with a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Some cities (NYC, Buffalo, Rochester) prohibit online ammo purchases.
Washington DC
Prohibits all online ammunition sales.
As noted above, these are just a sample of the local gun laws you may have to contend with.
So always check your local, state, and federal laws.
Do yourself a favor and do your homework before placing an online ammunition order.
Some vendors also have restrictions due to their location.
Or prefer to avoid any headaches when dealing with shipments to specific states or cities.
How To Plan Online Ammo Purchases
Purchasing ammunition online isn’t rocket science. But you still need to do your research.
For example, each online retailer will have different policies regarding the following:
Maximum quantities
Caliber availability
Ammunition types
They also frequently have varying shipping and return policies as well.
These policies can add to your final purchase price.
Also, check for customer reviews and ratings on OTHER sites.
Always be skeptical of reviews posted on the retailer’s site.
They are often heavily curated to provide an excellent brand image.
That’s why it’s worth reading the fine print for each retailer and looking for your best deal.
But be flexible, as you’re ultimately at the mercy of who HAS ammunition in stock.
Decide What You Want To Buy (and Why).
I recall the overwhelming number of ammo choices at our local sporting goods store.
For example, the 12-gauge shotgun ammo took up several shelving units alone!
Before shopping, I had to think about what I was planning to do. Was I:
Hunting waterfowl?
Target shooting?
Upland birds?
Or even big game?
So, I’d start by narrowing my choices between:
toxic vs. non-toxic loads,
heavy vs. light loads
density patterns
shot vs. slugs.
etc.
This process isn’t different from what you must do when shopping in person.
But now imagine the shelves nearly empty and a dozen other shoppers staring at the same couple of boxes.
The urge to buy SOMETHING NOW can get overwhelming.
But if you buy the wrong ammo, it’s almost worse than not buying anything at all.
Think through the use and type of ammunition, how many rounds you feel you need, and what you’re willing to spend.
These things are all interrelated.
For example, it’s far easier to justify spending more on self-defense rounds.
Because you know your life might depend on them someday.
But with those rounds, a day at the range would break the bank. S
o, in that case, opt for a more economical round.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
The first time I bought ammunition online, it was an intimidating task.
I wanted to ensure I did it right to avoid legal issues or wasted time and money.
If you’ve got friends who buy online, it’s beneficial to ask them for recommendations.
And even ask for their help placing your first order.
Sure, their ammunition preferences and needs may not be the same as yours.
But they can often help steer you clear of less-reputable retailers.
They can also show you some tricks for staying informed about rapidly changing in-stock options at any given site.
For example, if several friends use the same place, they likely have a quality product at a reasonable price.
Do Your Homework
“Cheap” ammunition isn’t cheap.
So, treat your online ammo purchases like any other significant investment.
Despite the help you get from friends, it’s always best to research.
First, focus on the best, time-tested brands.
Next, research retailers with the best prices and flexible policies.
Now, determine how long shipping takes and research their specific return policy.
Finally, double-check for any fine print or any extra costs.
When you start purchasing, I suggest buying a few smaller boxes first. You may want to buy various calibers or brands for testing.
Do this before committing to a more significant purchase.
The more information you have, the better your ammo-buying decisions will be.
This testing phase will help you avoid panic buying and get more for your money.
Avoid Getting Ripped Off When Buying Ammo Online
One of the significant concerns that buyers have when shopping online is:
“How do I know I’m not getting ripped off?”
Just like ALL online purchases, you’re right to be cautious. This is even MORE critical when buying ammunition online.
Why? Because it’s a significant purchase of a critical item – one with high cost AND scarcity.
Unlike a brick-and-mortar store, it’s hard to understand whether an online shop is legitimate.
You must look for other clues and ask yourself some serious questions.
Are the website prices and promotions too good to be true?
Can you find the retailer’s online reviews (on other trusted sites)?
Are the website’s buying, shipping, and return policies well documented?
Do they readily display contact information? Does it list a physical address, phone number, or just a PO Box and email?
Does the website appear well-designed and professionally maintained?
If the answer to these questions is “no,” I strongly suggest caution!
You must always be on the lookout for online scams.
Some countries are enacting rationing to produce necessary goods.
These current rationing efforts are like wartime production measures.
Countries are trying to work out new trade and public health policies.
These efforts are to allow for a smoother international exchange of goods.
But until then, we’re left to increase domestic production of these materials to fill the gap.
All these efforts to fix the supply chain are a slow process.
It’s like trying to turn around a battleship on a dime – ain’t gonna happen.
It’s got a very long curve of infrastructure construction and workforce training needed.
Raw materials are not the only issue.
More complex components (like gunpowder and primers) require complicated manufacturing processes and demand skilled tradespeople to ensure quality products.
At the same time, a flood of new (and old) buyers are snapping up all the ammo they can get their hands on.
Buying ammo online can be a more convenient and, often, cheaper purchasing path.
However, there are many factors you have to consider when purchasing ammo online.
These factors include:
Website legitimacy
Brand reputation
Ammunition availability
Quality and quantity
State or area restrictions
Age restrictions
Competitive price
Shipping costs
etc.
But if you’re diligent with your research, you can get what you’re looking for from the comfort of your home.
Once you’ve overcome all these hurdles, purchasing ammo online can be a great experience, especially if you don’t enjoy driving from store to store all around town and only come home empty-handed!
One final note before you go:
If you buy ammo in bulk and plan to store it, do it right and avoid these amateur mistakes.
And invest in quality ammo cansto protect your investment!
Go to https://drinkag1.com/joerobinet for 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs + a bottle of Vitamin D for your first subscription!Come on a bushcraft heavy camp with me, 2 nights under a canvas tarp
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Important news in the world of combating the dangers of low quality knockoff / counterfeit Combat Application Tourniquets. View this quick video to understand the court’s decision and how it will impact the importation of fake tourniquets to the U.S.
Full transcript and video can also be found on our blog at: https://www.narescue.com/nar-blog/general-exclusion-order-cats.html
With danger comes the need to respond to injuries. The Every Day Carry Concealment Fanny Pack from North American Rescue offers both concealed carry convenience and major bleeding trauma medical response equipment. Be prepared for whatever you may face whether you’re commuting, running errands, hitting the range, or enjoying an outdoor adventure.
For more info: https://www.narescue.com/edc-concealment-fanny-packs.html
This video is of an 8 day canoe trip in Quetico
It’s my first trip back since my accident in May.
I have along, Mike and Adam with me.
come along to see us battle the elements, Find out if I’m still cut out for this sort of thing with me
Adam https://www.youtube.com/@AdamRomanoExplores
Mike @MikeMorton
https://www.youtube.com/@HikingWithHazza Makes the thumbnail
New Merch here! https://www.bunkerbranding.com/pages/joe-robinet
Instagram https://instagram.com/joerobinetbushcraft/
Tweets by robinet_joe
If you’ve ever wondered just what chest seals are used for, how they function, and when you should use one, then this video is for you! North American Rescue’s NAR Doc (Dr. Ethan Miles) provides a clear explanation of this life saving trauma medicine.
For more info: https://www.narescue.com/all-products/respirations.html
As hurricanes become stronger, our resilience as Americans is being put to the ultimate test. Climate change is turning these storms into consistently dangerous threats, especially for those living in coastal regions. While having emergency supplies helps, they’re often not enough to outlast these intense natural disasters. In times of crisis, having supportive neighbors can become a valuable asset. They can offer and provide tools, share skills, or lend a hand when your resources run low. Here’s why community support can be your lifesaver and how you can lean on it when it matters most.
Hurricanes don’t just damage homes. They knock out electricity, flood roads, and disrupt supply chains. Stocking up on food, water and fuel is a smart strategy, but even the most prepared families can still face challenges when faced with prolonged disasters. Generators ultimately run out of fuel and well-stocked pantries eventually become empty. In situations like these, having friendly neighbors step in can be a big help. They provide the things that other households might lack, especially food and drinking water, additional fuel, or handy tools.
Stories of Community Rescue
Take Kyle Moorcones from North Carolina, for example. During Hurricane Helene, his family’s Starlink satellite system kept them connected when most services were unavailable. A neighbor provided a generator and set up a makeshift system for families to communicate and stay informed. When Moorcones’ generator failed, another neighbor stepped in with the needed resources to restore power.
Meanwhile, one resident used their ATV to reach remote areas and secure essential items like water and diapers. Another family shared fresh eggs, while others pooled their food stores and shared meals. This strong sense of community helped address everyone’s needs. By working together, they restored normalcy and made a tough situation manageable.
Why Connections Matter in a Crisis
Sharing limited resources is important, but so is offering emotional support. Simply knowing you’re not alone can be incredibly comforting to families who lost their homes and possessions. In fact , studies show that people who feel connected to their communities can handle crises better. When you know and trust your neighbors, collaborating in times of need becomes second nature. A connected neighborhood isn’t just a collection of homes. It’s a network of people ready to band together and face challenges. This sense of unity doesn’t just lend support during the storm, it guides you through the aftermath. After all, the stronger the community, the faster the path back to recovery.
Community Planning: A Smart Strategy
With hurricanes growing more intense every year, planning as a community becomes essential. Start organizing your neighborhood by meeting your neighbors and exchanging contact information. Identify the skills and resources each person brings to the table. Some might have medical expertise, others repair skills, or some have useful equipment. These resources can help the entire community survive when roads are blocked or emergency aid is held up.
Develop a neighborhood plan with clear roles and responsibilities. Decide who will check on the children and the elderly and who will manage supplies. Set up reliable communication methods, like walkie-talkies or satellite systems in case the usual options fail. In short, collaborative planning covers everyone’s needs and ensures no one gets left behind.
Why Immediate Help Isn’t Always Possible
Government and relief agencies often face delays due to blocked roads, damaged infrastructure, or competing priorities. In Moorcones’ story, his neighborhood didn’t wait for authorities to show up. They found an excavator and cleared the road themselves. In doing so, they proved that communities are strongest when they act together.
The Heart of Hurricane Survival
Surviving hurricanes isn’t about being a lone hero equipped all the right tools. It’s about being part of a team that comes together to overcome a common challenge. The real strength comes from sharing resources, helping others, and relying on each other during tough times. As natural disasters grow more powerful, our community bonds will become our greatest assets. Building those relationships before disaster strikes might just be the most effective survival strategy.
Looking for more ways to build community support during hurricanes?Click here for expert tips on how to stay safe and thrive together in times of crisis!
Buying ammo online is often more convenient than going to the store!
