http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from...uv-5r&_sacat=0

These are what we use in the State Guard. They are inexpensive and work great. Range is 3-5 miles depending on terrain. They hold a charge very well and you can get extended range antennas for $10 which extend the range another 2 miles or so.

They can also get you started in being a Ham - they are handy talkies that operate on HF and VHF.