Backcountry Access

BC Link 2.0

Fatal design flaw renders radio useless

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Weight:

null

I had high hopes for these radios, but a fatal design flaw in the mic connection makes these very expensive paperweights. I'll cover a few of my thoughts, pros and cons, but ultimately cannot recommend these. Positives are: easy manipulation of the mic/speaker, even with gloves on during the winter. Main unit and battery stay inside my backpack, where they will stay warmer and protected from the elements . The separate mic/speaker unit is plenty loud, weather sealed, and has a long enough cable to easily attach to my backpack strap. Negatives: units themselves output a maximum of up to 2 watts on some channels. This is a federal restriction, so not a knock on BCA, but be aware of their range limitations. You will likely not be able to communicate to your separated party from all areas of a resort, but they still are handy if you are in a group and trying to stay in communication without cell service. Some of the cheaper options may bypass this regulation and allow for higher power transmission. They are still using micro-usb for charging. While many devices are still using this outdated connector, it would have been nice to see usb-c here. The biggest negative here, which has happened on both of the units I have purchased, and ultimately renders the whole unit inoperable, is there is a small hook on the mic which attaches it to the main body of the radio. The other end of this connection is a small thumb screw, which is plenty stout. The hook on the mic connection is made out of cheap, brittle plastic, and will break. Once this piece is broken, the mic will no longer make contact with the body of the radio, and you're unable to use them. Both of my units were very lightly used, stored properly, and had this issue less than one year after purchasing them. I've added a picture of the hook, where you can see it's has broken, but not yet completely detached from the cord. BCA has claimed they have a redesigned attachment in the works, but I have yet to see this on any new units in stores or in person anywhere. To their credit, they have been helpful with warranty claims, but I can no longer trust these units for critical communication in the backcountry. It's disappointing because a pair of these retails for nearly $400. Please consider another option before dropping that kind of cash on something that will break.

They are not radio experts

Just junk, prefer to have the option to use radio without the mic...just a problem when you need to get ahold of someone and the mic is frozen also they show up doa....a big problem. I'm a guide in nw Colorado and communication is life and death..just a grms with a fancy cover...better to keep radio in backpack or jacket so you don't need to show off a bca mic