Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 CB Radio

Curated from 36 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: April 12, 2025

Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 CB Radio

Brand: Uniden
Price: $328
Snoop Score:
8.5
Sentiment
10.0
Popularity
10.0
Technical
7.2

Snoop's Take

The Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 is a hybrid CB radio that combines traditional communication features with advanced scanning capabilities for public safety channels. This device not only allows users to engage in 40-channel CB operations but also monitors Police, Fire, and Ambulance communications, making it a versatile tool for both personal and professional use. Consumer sentiment around the Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly highlighting its effectiveness in remote areas and construction settings. Users appreciate the ergonomic noise-cancelling microphone, with one stating, "the Uniden has been an excellent little radio," while others note that a good antenna setup significantly enhances range. Many find it a reliable communication device, especially in situations where cell phone coverage is limited. Based on the feedback received, the Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 is highly recommended for those seeking a robust CB radio with added scanning features. Its build quality and effective range make it a standout choice within its category.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Handheld CB Radios

Big deal... the Uniden has been an excellent little radio.

Positive Feedback

I’d look for another type of radio honestly. Handheld CBs are pretty lacking when it comes to range.

Insightful Chatter
Product
8.5
Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 CB Radio
Emergency Communication
8 / 10
Mobile Connectivity
8 / 10
Outdoor Adventures
10 / 10
Professional and Recreational Use
10 / 10
See how this compares to all Handheld CB Radios

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Works great with a magmount and 12V cigarette plug
Big deal... the Uniden has been an excellent little radio.
The trucks we lease no longer have cigarette lighters.
Effective for communication in remote areas
Back in the day when cell phones didn't work well outside of cities, these things were a literal lifesaver even if they were illegal.
Citizen band (CB) radios went from legit communication device to a media fad for a while.
A better antenna will improve your distance, however you’ll need an adapter.
A good antenna setup will get you working the whole Western Hemisphere when conditions are good.
Ergonomic noise cancelling microphone enhances transmissions
Cheap handheld CB radio? Do any of you know of a good CB radio that could be used in a vehicle but powered by batteries?
Effective for communication in construction settings
I cant imagine any other practical use from inside a vehicle where it would likely block signals coming and going.
Buddy of mine uses it for training.
They work OK, but I wouldn't use it as again truck radio.
Upgraded version offers better features
having to unpack/pack it up every night is annoying but also more of a slip seat issue
Good range performance for handheld use
I was surprised the range was really good up to the point of no line of sight.
It’s actually a pretty decent range all things considered.
In all honesty, battery powered CBs are pretty useless. Especially when used with the 'rubber duck' antennas they are supplied with.
Uniden CB radios have good build quality.
I'm a big fan and longtime user of CB handhelds.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 CB RadioUniden BEARTRACKER 885 CB Radio$328
8.5
DetailsBuy
Midland 75-822 Handheld CB RadioMidland 75-822 Handheld CB Radio$99
7.2
DetailsBuy
Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB RadioUniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio$39
6.9
DetailsBuy
President Electronics RANDYII Handheld RadioPresident Electronics RANDYII Handheld Radio$164
4.6
DetailsBuy
President Electronics Randy II FCC Handheld CB RadioPresident Electronics Randy II FCC Handheld CB Radio$164
4.4
DetailsBuy
Midland® 75-785 Handheld CB RadioMidland® 75-785 Handheld CB Radio$39
4.0
DetailsBuy

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Users discuss alternatives to CB radios.
I've got a Midland 75-822 and I'm quite happy with it.
I'm a big fan and longtime user of CB handhelds.
Preference for dedicated mobile units over handhelds
Thanks for the reply, I think I will go with an actual mobile unit instead of the handheld for easier use.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Handheld units are cumbersome to use while driving
Both of them were a little too cumbersome to use while driving.
Discussion of alternative models like Uniden 510 and Midland 75-822
Has more options and configurations.
Users discuss alternatives to handheld CB radios.
I have the Midland 75-822 and it's really good if you don't mind juggling AA batteries.
Are you wanting UHF CB or 26/27MHz AM CB
President Randy 2. Maybe buy a “tactical” antenna or a wire dipole and coax, would make an EASY portable base
Discussion about alternatives to CB radios
the 75-822 is the best value in my book and well worth the extra $30.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Handheld CB radios have limited range compared to other types.
I’d look for another type of radio honestly. Handheld CBs are pretty lacking when it comes to range.
Range on CB is dependent on the antenna. A good range can be had with a 9’ whip, that’s the perfect wavelength.
Batteries consume a lot of power in handheld CB radios.
The issue is batteries.. they use a ton.. president makes a rechargable CB radio.. regardless.
Discussion about handheld UHF radios.
Handheld UHF radios? Looking for advice on UHF radios.
A few extra watts may come in handy, but with UHF its antenna gain and its elevation as much as anything else.
A bit cheaper if you want 5w.
Spend a little extra on a 5 watt.

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