Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List

Posted on 2013 July 1 | 63 Comments

Information for Survivalist, Prepper, or SHTF Survival Communications using Single SideBand CB radio around 27 MHz.

The original source of this article is the RadioMaster Reports blog.

Freeband
Freeband frequencies around 27 MHz CB have been widely used by thousands and thousands of freebanders worldwide over the past 40+ years. Here in this list, we document the best and most common Single SideBand (SSB, USB, LSB) Freeband frequencies useful for Survivalists. We cover mainly SSB because it is by far the best method. SSB is so much better than either AM or FM, that it should be the the prime choice of survivalists and SHTF preppers everywhere, for direct communication over wide areas between mobiles and base stations.

Extra Super Secret Channels
The Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List is the essential chart of Secret CB channels, CB SSB channels, …

…enter the zone of Freeband Frequencies, Splinter Channels, Drop Channels, Hidden Channels, Gap Channels, Upper Channels, High Channels, Extra Channels, and Zero Channels, Hidden Frequencies, Private Channels, Secret Channels, Stealth Frequency.

About Freeband
Freeband refers to unlicensed transmitting on the frequencies above, below, and in between normal HF radio bands. Freebanding is communicating on the freeband frequencies. CB radios and HAM radios can be modified to get freeband channels.

AM Amplitude Modulation
AM is the basic modulation mode in standard CB radios. It is good for short range communication with common CB radios and CB HT (handheld) radios or walkie talkies. Some CB radios also have Single Sideband (SSB). AM is prone to more interference and doesn’t go as far as SSB.

Single Sideband CB Radio USB Upper Sideband

Video: Typical Vehicle Mobile SSB CB Radio Long Distance Communications

Upper SideBand (USB) or Lower SideBand (LSB)
Single SideBand (SSB) CB radios are very popular for freeband. SSB is by far the best freeband mode. LSB is mostly used for local area and “skip talking” in English language in North America. USB is used often for long distance, International communications, or Spanish language in North or South America. The choice of which sideband to use is not etched in stone. USB is usually selected for prepper and SHTF Survival channels because it is clearer and more compatible with various types of radios.

Single Sideband CB Radio Clarifier

Freeband Radios
Freebanders use one of the following types of radios to talk on these channels:

1. CB radio modified with “extra channels”, “high channels”, “expanded”, or “unlocked clarifier”.
2. Ham “10 meter” SSB radio that has been modified for 11 meters.
3. Export CB SSB radio, often with Band switch ABCDE or ABCDEFG.
4. Ham HF SSB radio modified for general coverage transmit.
5. Commercial land mobile HF SSB radio.
6. Marine HF SSB radio.
7. Military surplus HF SSB radio or manpack.
8. Aeronautical HF SSB radio.

Video: Some Night Activity on Survivalist Prepper Freeband Channel 27.425 kHz SSB

Video: Activity on Survivalist Prepper Freeband Channel 27.425 kHz SSB

Freeband Radio License
“License? Freebanders don’t need no stinkin’ license!” Freebanders don’t have a license for these frequencies. CB radio rules, channels, modes, and frequency bands vary quite a lot from country to country. 99.99% of the time, the governments don’t enforce radio rules or regulations on the common freeband frequencies unless someone uses a high power linear amplifier to create radio interference for neighborhood TV sets or other services. Enforcement pretty much gave up on this part of the spectrum a long time ago, and it is mostly considered “sacrificial spectrum” in the “wild west of radio”. However, there are some frequencies in this spectrum that wise freebanders avoid. For example, between 28.000 MHz and 29.700 MHz, the 10 meter ham band, they are very likely to be tracked by ham operators and reported to the authorities. In USA, many CB truck drivers don’t heed freebander frequency caution; they often talk on 28.085 MHz (sometimes known as “high 19”) where they are easily tracked down by hams. Their trucking companies are often fined by FCC, and the drivers get fired. Most freeband operators look down upon that kind of carelessness.

Video: Typical Long Distance Vehicle Mobile Communications using SSB CB
Why Freeband
So, with all the issues surrounding it, why do people use freeband? Simple. It works. The frequencies are clear; free of the busy chatter and interference of normal CB channels. Freeband goes further than other common unlicensed radios like FRS, GMRS, or MURS. Freeband distance range is similar to ham radio 10 meter HF SSB. Freeband is compatible with the CB radios. The radios are widely available, inexpensive, ubiquitous, and easy to use.

Video: Typical Long Distance Communications using SSB CB Freeband

Freeband Operating Methods
Freebanders usually use fake callsign numbers or letters to anonymize themselves. These are different callsigns than the ones they use on Normal CB Channels. If talking about locations they are usually vague or use informal code words known only to each other. Freeband users often are normal CB users who just want some of the long distance communication advantages of ham radio HF SSB, but without a license. Freebanders go in between or outside the normal CB channels to achieve long distance communication that would be nearly impossible on the normal 40 CB channels. Radios with expanded channels, Export CB Bands or a VFO feature with frequency display, can transmit above the CB band. Even a very old used SSB CB modified with expanded clarifier slider can tune slightly off frequency to the Drop Gap (LSB) or High Gap (USB) clear space between channels. To avoid detection, freebanders often transmit from vehicles instead of base stations. Long distance can be achieved by parking away from power lines on an isolated hilltop, side road, or open parking lot. By limiting conversations on the freeband channels to only what is necessary and avoiding long-winded chat or skip-talking, the detection footprint is minimized. Freebander groups usually have one or two frequencies they use as a “call channel” for initially making contact, and then select another frequency at random for continued conversation. They usually avoid talking about specific activities or using coarse language that might make them stand out. Instead, they try to blend in casually.

Video: Typical CB SSB Solid Local Communications Using Whip Antenna on a Pickup Truck
Freeband Radios for SHTF
Freeband-capable CB radios are well-suited to SHTF survivalist situations. The direct radio-to-radio distance range of freeband CB SSB is much greater than a ham VHF/UHF HT or MURS or FRS or GMRS. This is because 27MHz travels further than line-of-sight, due to ground wave that can extend the range over hills and valleys. A big advantage is that inconspicuous CB SSB radios modified for freeband look exactly like normal CB radios. With a good antenna, these radios can usually cover a wide range around a local town or county area. The radios run on 12 Volt DC, can be powered for many days on a car battery, and then recharged with solar or alternative energy. The addition of high power linear amplifiers to CB SSB can greatly extend the groundwave range. Military surplus manpack HF SSB radios can be used for freeband. Marine HF SSB radios can be modified for freeband, and some Aeronautical HF radios can work on freeband. Keep in mind that many of these radios are only capable of Upper SideBand, so USB is usually selected for SHTF survival HF freeband frequencies.

Video: Unlocking Clarifier and Extra Channels on Uniden Bearcat 980 SSB CB

Video: Unlocked Clarifier and Extra Channels on Cobra 148 GTL SSB CB

Typical CB SSB Clarifer Unlock Modification Schematic

Video: Typical Ham Radio HF SSB Modified for Freeband SSB
Ham Radio 10 Meter Band SSB
Some freeband operators are also ham operators. And some ham operators are also freeband operators. But, a lot of so-called export radios that are made for the 10 meter ham band are utilized on freeband. Keep in mind that there is a ham radio Survivalist-Prepper channel SSB frequency in the 10 meter band. It is available and legal for Technician class operators.
HAM LICENSE ONLY:
========= THE 10 METER HAM BAND= ====== ====== ===============
HAM BAND AMATEUR 10 METER 28.000 TO 29.700 BAND F/G
HAM BAND | 28.305 = USB | 28.305 USB*HAM PREPPER TECH SSB*
========= ============== ======= ====== ======================
* SURVIVALIST/PREPPER CHANNELS

Historic Background of Freeband SSB Survivalist activity.

1971-1976. It was very common to use splinter gap channels with expanded unlocked clarifiers on 23 channel CBs. Survivalist freeband SSBers were found on 27168 USB (just above normal CB channel 16). Frequency modifications for use outside the normal CB band required the use of an external VFO or slider, or else the internal modification with a switch and quartz crystals.

In 1977, the new 40 channel digitally tuned PLL phase-locked-loop radios started to flood the CB market. CB SSB radios could be bought for under $100. Many SSB survivalists tended to call on normal CB channel 37 USB (27375 kHz) and then slid up with unlocked clarifiers or sliders to 27378 USB or down to 27368 to get away from AM interference.

By late 1977, as the new 40 channels became crowded, most began expanding the PLL channel selectors on their radios for the non-official channels above 40, which became known as The Uppers. Freeband PLL modification of those 40 channel CBs was easy: cut some PC board traces and solder wires to add-on toggle switches; re-purpose the noise blanker or PA switch. A lot of the freebander SSBers abandoned their old unlocked clarifier/slider splinter channels for the greener pastures of The Uppers.

By 1978, the freeband 27425 kHz frequency was called Channel 42. These days it is known as Upper 2, or E2, or Hi 425. It was very active with a large number of independent-minded back-to-the-land folks. 27425 USB became a watering hole for backwoods hippies and non-conformist survivalists, way before anyone ever heard of the word “prepper”. Most used 3 digit or 4 digit callsigns, and/or very common names such as John, Mike, Bill, Bob, Mary, etc. [not their real names]. Folks seemed to get along OK on 27425 USB with each other, often talking about hunting, food, bushcraft, vehicles, solar power, cabins, windmills, horses, snares, guns, knives, camping, and modifying radios. There were around 150 to 200 active operators on this channel who mostly knew each other via skip or groundwave. Occasionally, political discussions led to drunken rants or verbal combat 🙂 But, most were friendly, intelligent folks when they weren’t operating-while-inebriated. 27425 USB continued to be a very active survivalist channel throughout the 1980s.

By the early 1990s, only a small number of the old timer freeband survivalists were still on the air. By the late 1990s it seemed like everyone drifted away from CB/freeband and found the internet.

Fast forward to 2001-2015. A rebirth of survivalism and the growing popularity of prepping led to a resurgence of interest in emergency survivalist communications.

In 2011 the old RadioMaster logbook of channel lists was dusted off and transferred to spreadsheets. These lists were passed around by email among old friends and posted on a few CB and prepper forums.

In 2013, it seemed like the interest in survivalist comms had increased enough to do a series of articles specifically on the subject.

Video: Typical CB Installation with Linear Amplifier
Freeband Radios Channel Charts

Here are some freeband frequency channel charts for various types of radios.

CB 27 MHz Frequency Channel Chart for 6-Band Export Radios

Channel	A	B	C	D	E	F
1	25.615	26.065	26.515	26.965	27.415	27.865
2	25.625	26.075	26.525	26.975	27.425	27.875
3	25.635	26.085	26.535	26.985	27.435	27.885
4	25.655	26.105	26.555	27.005	27.455	27.905
5	25.665	26.115	26.565	27.015	27.465	27.915
6	25.675	26.125	26.575	27.025	27.475	27.925
7	25.685	26.135	26.585	27.035	27.485	27.935
8	25.705	26.155	26.605	27.055	27.505	27.955
9	25.715	26.165	26.615	27.065	27.515	27.965
10	25.725	26.175	26.625	27.075	27.525	27.975
11	25.735	26.185	26.635	27.085	27.535	27.985
12	25.755	26.205	26.655	27.105	27.555	28.005
13	25.765	26.215	26.665	27.115	27.565	28.015
14	25.775	26.225	26.675	27.125	27.575	28.025
15	25.785	26.235	26.685	27.135	27.585	28.035
16	25.805	26.255	26.705	27.155	27.605	28.055
17	25.815	26.265	26.715	27.165	27.615	28.065
18	25.825	26.275	26.725	27.175	27.625	28.075
19	25.835	26.285	26.735	27.185	27.635	28.085
Channel	A	B	C	D	E	F
20	25.855	26.305	26.755	27.205	27.655	28.105
21	25.865	26.315	26.765	27.215	27.665	28.115
22	25.875	26.325	26.775	27.225	27.675	28.125
23	25.905	26.355	26.805	27.255	27.705	28.155
24	25.885	26.335	26.785	27.235	27.685	28.135
25	25.895	26.345	26.795	27.245	27.695	28.145
26	25.915	26.365	26.815	27.265	27.715	28.165
27	25.925	26.375	26.825	27.275	27.725	28.175
28	25.935	26.385	26.835	27.285	27.735	28.185
29	25.945	26.395	26.845	27.295	27.745	28.195
30	25.955	26.405	26.855	27.305	27.755	28.205
31	25.965	26.415	26.865	27.315	27.765	28.215
32	25.975	26.425	26.875	27.325	27.775	28.225
33	25.985	26.435	26.885	27.335	27.785	28.235
34	25.995	26.445	26.895	27.345	27.795	28.245
35	26.005	26.455	26.905	27.355	27.805	28.255
36	26.015	26.465	26.915	27.365	27.815	28.265
37	26.025	26.475	26.925	27.375	27.825	28.275
38	26.035	26.485	26.935	27.385	27.835	28.285
39	26.045	26.495	26.945	27.395	27.845	28.295
40	26.055	26.505	26.955	27.405	27.855	28.305

Some possible freeband radios which have ‘extra channels’ in the 11 meter band 27 MHz.

AM/SSB or AM or AM/FM or AM/FM/SSB

ALBRECHT – model: AE-497

COBRA – model: 200 GTL DX

CONNEX – models: 3300, 3300 HP, 3300HP-ZX, 3300 PLUS, CX-3800, 4300 HP, 4300 HP 300, 4400, 4400 HP, 4600, Turbo, 4800 DXL, 4800 HPE, Deer Hunter, General Lee, General Washington, Saturn, CX 33TLM

DRAGON – model: SS-497

EAGLE – models: 2000, Saturn, 5000

GALAXY – models: 33HML, 44V, 45MP, 47, 48T, 55, 55V, 66V, 73V, 77, 77HML, 88HL, 93T, 94, 95T, 98, 99V, 919, 929, 959, 979, 2517, 2527, 2547, DX94HP, DX98VHP, Melaka, Saturn, Turbo, 29HP

GENERAL – General Jackson, Grant, Stonewall Jackson, Lee, Washington, A.P. Hill, Longstreet, Sherman

INTEK – model: Multicom-497

MAGNUM – models: 1012, 257, 357, 357DX, 457, Alpha force, Delta Force, Raptor, Mini, Omega Force,S3, S3RF, S6, S9,

MIRAGE – models: 33HP, 44, 88, 99, 2950, 2950EX, 2970, 6600, 88H/L, 9900, MX-36HP, Stealth

NORTH STAR – models: NS-3000, NS-9000

OMEGAFORCE – models: 45

PRESIDENT – models: Grant, J.F.K., Jackson, Lincoln, HR-2510, HR-2600

PRO STAR – model: 240, 400

RANGER / RCI – models: AR-3500, RCI-2900, RCI-2950, RCI-2950-DX, RCI-2970, RCI-2970-DX, RCI-2980-WX, RCI-2985-DX, RCI-2990,RCI-2995-DX, RCI-6300, RCI-6300 Turbo, RCI-6300F-25, RCI-6300F-150, RCI-6900, RCI-6900 Turbo, RCI-6900F-25, RCI-6900F-150, RG-99, Voyage VR-9000, RHF-618

STRYKER – model: 440

SUPERSTAR – model: 121, 122, 36, 3700, 3900, 3900HP, 3900 American Spirit, 3900 HP G, 3900 Gold, 3900GHPA, 3900GHPM, 4800, 4900, Grant

TEK – model: HR-3950

UNIDEN – models: HR-2510, HR-2600

VIRAGE – model: 3300, 3300 HP, VX-38, VX-39

Note: Most of these are either marketed as 10 meter ham radios, or banned for import into USA, or otherwise looked upon with disdain by do-gooders; so they may show up on auction sites, flea markets, non-mainstream cb places, cb websites, or under-the-counter at truck stops.

Additionally:
MOST HAM HF SSB RADIOS – with modifications, can be used on HF Freeband or CB Freeband.
MOST Military Surplus HF SSB manpacks – can be used on HF Freeband or CB Freeband.

Disclaimer: Content provided in RadioMaster Reports is included for the sole purpose of providing educational information on a passive basis. This information may be useful to the public in the event of emergencies or disaster recovery, especially when normal techniques are not an available option. Users of this educational information are solely responsible for their actions.

This entry was posted in Survivalist Prepper Communications and tagged CB Channel, CB Channel List, doomsday prepper, Freeband, Freebander, Freebanding, Frequency List, Prepper, prepper communications, prepper list, preppers, SHTF, SSB CB, survival prepper, Survivalist, survivalist blog, survivalist forum, survivalist guide. Bookmark the permalink.

63 responses to “Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List”

thoughtfullyprepping | 2013 July 25 at 19:40 | Reply

Good detailed information thanks.
I keep only 5 HF frequencies to hand, CB Ch 9 and 19 (UK and EU) AM/FM, and 27.555 L/USB
After all that’s hopefully where everyone will be calling on. Just a thought.
Now what about a chuck up into the trees type aerial?
KWP0626@GMAIL..NET | 2013 December 16 at 21:44 | Reply

Thank You for the info.
-SODBUSTER
- wrustylane | 2020 July 2 at 07:36 | Reply
  
  Howdy,
  All my CB single sideband radios are modified to go to just under the 10 meter HAM band and below channel 1. I always run a freq counter so I can
  stay just below the 10 meter HAM band. I have mostly J.C. Penney’s phase locked loop radios with an unlocked clarifier. I used to hang out on channel 60. Hope to get my radio back on line. Need an antenna.
Ramon | 2013 December 22 at 07:32 | Reply

Thank you
Joel "Jo-Jo" Link | 2013 December 30 at 19:37 | Reply

I tried posting something here before… I wonder where it went…
Anyways…
I LOVE the info here. It is very helpful. There is one flaw though… USB is not any quieter than LSB. They are, in fact, the same (both SSB – Single Side Band), with just a different “half” of the signal filtered out, to save bandwidth and power. The reason USB is generally used here, is by unofficial international agreements… Where Lower Side Band is generally used on frequencies below 30 Meters (10 MHz), and USB is used above… This is definitely not law, or carved into stone anywhere, so you may find many exceptions to this rule.
Otherwise, very well put together. I will pass this weblink far and wide!
Thanx, and 73… Jo-Jo
- Small Change | 2021 November 14 at 04:39 | Reply
  
  It’s likely we will be in a shtf situation by Christmas. Anyway, I’m looking into getting a Yaesu or AnyTone 6666. Which would be best? Do they have to be converted or can they transmit on any frequency out of the box? Also, I need some info on how to set up a good antenna in these tall GA pines without having to climb.
radiofreeq | 2013 December 31 at 03:52 | Reply

@ joel “Jo-Jo”,

The CB freeband SSB operating situation is quite different from ham radio and other services.

In 27 MHz freeband, both sidebands are used. There are reasons for preferring USB vs LSB for different purposes. Please see the notes about it in the article.

There are also differences in statistical operating trends between USB and LSB, resulting in more or less interference due to co-channel, adjacent channel, and channel occupancy patterns. The information posted about SSB on RadioMaster Reports is accurate, especially with respect to Survivalist freeband CB.
common sense | 2014 January 26 at 16:00 | Reply

We like radio master reports.
Mark | 2014 April 20 at 00:52 | Reply

Great info, just getting back into the cb again after 17 yrs out
checho07 | 2014 April 25 at 21:03 | Reply

New to CB RADIO
Need all the help I can get PLEASE!!
- Thomas | 2018 December 5 at 18:24 | Reply
  
  I am new to CB now as well, what have you learned
Tha Dood | 2014 June 1 at 01:06 | Reply

Cherokee CB’s, even the portables, are as easy to modify as the 10M gear. However, nothing can be as easy to FREQ swap as the RCI-2950. Just move jumpers around, reset, you’re there. Still one of my favorite rigs in the USA / Canada.
radiofreeq | 2014 November 17 at 05:52 | Reply

Channel Update:

The skip has been excellent lately, every day.

Discussions have been going on the air (mostly 27368 upper) between 2 different groups of prepper and survivalist freebanders.

Several have voiced opinions toward a “unified survivalist/prepper freeband calling channel”. This new calling channel will be instead of the separate Prepper channel and Survivalist channels that have been the trend over the past several years.

Another issue has been to solve a problem of the lack of unlocked clarifiers (sliders) on many newer “export radios”. Some freebanders just can’t get to the 27368 or 27378 freqs easily. But it seems that all the newer freeband radios can get .nn5 kHz increments.

The proposed channel is likely to be either 27390 USB or 27370 USB.

A new article will be posted when there is agreement. Several of us have been monitoring 27390 USB recently, and it appears really good.

Comments are welcome.

-RadioMaster
- radiofreeq | 2015 January 27 at 03:37 | Reply
  
  Update: Looks like 27425 USB may become popular for Survivalist-Preppers again after all these years.
Ted I Lewis | 2014 December 5 at 00:58 | Reply

I am so glad I found this site ! I am working on putting together a group of patriots in Montana for information sharing. Most can’t afford ham rigs. So we are working on c bs. Have two lines set up now. Can pass info on for 477 miles on one, 355miles on the other. And will have all directions covered soon. Trying to find a set of used beams or ground plane. Working off a 102 inch steel whip now. Added ground planes and it works ! GREAT! But great site ! Thanks guys.
Ted I Lewis | 2014 December 19 at 13:50 | Reply

Is there anyone in the southern part of Montana Butte area, that can work on different c b’s and the like ? Have some equipment that I want to have some things done. And help me get stuff up and on the air. Have not been able to get on site lately. Installed hew solar system for our cabin. 25 years for old system. And it still worked great. But solar cells were down to 80-85 %. Any one want a whole solar systen ? Stacked 2400 watt inverters=230 volts. 96 T-126 Batteries. 16 – 200 watt solar panels. Charge control -Solar Boost 50. And all the wiring. Will trade for radio equipment. Just a idea. Later all.
- Keith Brennan | 2018 November 10 at 11:32 | Reply
  
  Hey Ted, saw your post and was wondering if you are still active in MT? I am in Bozeman and want to meet some people in the area. mail me if you are still around, chefremytherat@gmail.com
Bravo-50 | 2015 January 8 at 22:30 | Reply

I would like to work with, and set-up a network of like minded preppers in the Mid-West Region. Thinking up to 500 miles West, Northwest, of the Great Lakes.
27.390 USB sounds like a great place to start.
Any thoughts???
radiofreeq | 2015 January 8 at 23:05 | Reply

yes 27390 USB – is active lately with survivalist-preppers. we noticed some are using distinctive whistles to call. also, we noticed one prepper sending a distinctive smartfone ring tone over the microphone to call a friend. seems like a good way to do it.
Bravo-50 | 2015 January 9 at 17:22 | Reply

That sounds like a good way to get the attention of “your Group” when your not sitting in front of your radio…
radiofreeq | 2015 January 10 at 02:28 | Reply

It sure seemed to cut through the static.
Bravo-50 | 2015 January 14 at 15:40 | Reply

Has any testing been done on 27390 usb ??? It looks like this could be a “Guard Channel” if the co-ch. interference isn’t toooo bad.
- radiofreeq | 2015 January 18 at 12:33 | Reply
  
  To Bravo-50
  Re: 27390 USB. Looking forward to the skip opening to your midwest group. Logged 4 other prepper-survivalists on 27390 USB so far (3 of those are retreads from the old survivalist freeband call channel 27368 USB) A new guy said his radio couldn’t tune in the old 27368 channel, but he can get on this one. One op reports some mild interference from ch 40 AM splatter. It’s not too bad at all for the rest of us. Surprisingly clear for a splinter on the zero within the CB band. Kinda difficult to say if it will catch on and become the big new guard channel. It generally takes a year or two for a channel to catch on. Seems like most preppers still don’t have a clue about SSB! But anyway it is now in the RadioMaster list as *27.390 USB NEW PREPPER/SURVIVALIST*
  - radiofreeq | 2015 January 20 at 21:54 | Reply
    
    Update: Several ops on 27390 USB have now reported minor interference from 40 AM splatter. It looks like we will be testing 27370 USB soon. It seems clear today.
Bravo-50 | 2015 January 23 at 05:26 | Reply

I will monitor 27370 USB for a few day and report my finding in the Mid-West. Has anyone tested above Ch.40 ???? hint, hint…
- radiofreeq | 2015 January 25 at 08:58 | Reply
  
  It seems like a lot of the export and 10 meter radios that everybody is using these days on SSB won’t do the splinter (zero gap) channels between the regular CB channels. Maybe it is time to forget about the splinters and just move back to good old 27425 USB on the uppers like it used to be in the old days.
  FREEBAND | CHANNEL =42 | 27.425 USB (E2) SURVIVALIST HI 425
Bravo-50 | 2015 January 26 at 17:09 | Reply

To radiofreeq

Your thoughts seem to make the most sense to me. Why try to reinvent something that has always been. The splinters are one thought, but if someone Is “Running Power” on either side of you, your fighting a problem that just doesn’t have to be.

I must admit that I was standing on the sidelines in the “Old Days” but what I did hear seemed to be working just fine… Not quite following the law but so what? Why was there a move to change the guard channel anyway??? I would expect that anyone within our realm of thought already has equipment that will be able to operate up there. The same antenna will work just fine for both “In-Band” and “Free-Band” operations.

From a tactical standpoint, the only downside to having just one freq. to guard is that it gives our opponents one place to “Look for us” and “One freq. to jam”….. Just the thoughts of a “old crow” if you understand what that is.

I will be doing some work on and around HI-425 in the next few days.

Bravo-50 Out.
radiofreeq | 2015 January 27 at 03:23 | Reply

Updated the article to include Historic background of Freeband SSB Survivalist activity.
RADCOM MAN | 2015 February 9 at 07:44 | Reply

Correct me if Im wrong here but a majority of these freq (ESPECIALLY HAM) require licensing to transmit on and and the radio nazis on the hamster bands will go LIVID over this information. HOWEVER…once you declare “Emergency” you are not subject to FCC Regs. However AGAIN dont you EVER transmit on AERONAUTICAL (Air Band) Freqs…
- Rhodi | 2015 March 20 at 22:15 | Reply
  
  For hams, in an event where life or property is in imminent danger (FCC 97.403 and 97.405) any available means of communication is specifically authorized. If there is a legitimate emergency, I doubt anyone would question you.
  
  I personally am not livid over the freebanding information in this article. However, if you’re freebanding on 10 meters and interfere with licenced hams, people probably will be upset with you. Especially if you’re using voice on a frequency intended for CW.
  
  There’s an easy solution. Spend $30 for a Technician Class study guide from the ARRL, find a local ham club and spend $15 for the test and get your licence. The Technician licence really isn’t that difficult, and you might learn a few things studying for it.
  
  For what it’s worth, many hams (myself included) have a little of the prepper mindset. I’m a storm spotter and a disaster volunteer, but I’m also reasonably prepared for a SHTF scenario.
ELR | 2015 March 28 at 21:48 | Reply

good way to avoid interference from the other channels. To Casey’s gets away from a lot of hash and mash
Loxfin Kjarr | 2015 June 2 at 04:15 | Reply

thanks for the info on radio frequencies for shtf survivalist channel and prepper channel
Ajnin | 2015 August 20 at 17:19 | Reply

I knew of a radio club on one of those channels back in the day… Hell you could call it Club Channels instead of Prepper lol….

The fact is any channel can be used for shtf survivalist…. and with today’s technology those channels are not hidden anymore… can be easily monitored on a converted fm usb dongle….plus most ham radios nowadays can cover all the bands… it would be better to own a ham radio than those junky 10 meter exports.

The 90’s was the rebirth of cb freebanding because of internet! CB mods!!! The internet came around and boom!!! people where downloading cb mods for their old radios for free!!!! I remember this very well haha…. also the birth of cb export radios was in the 90’s…. everyone started chasing freeband frequencies with those radios…..just go buy a old copperelectronics magazine or look on their website for proof of this….
Rich K. | 2015 October 25 at 01:56 | Reply

Let’s call so-called “freeband” communication what it is: communication on unallocated frequencies. I am a licensed ham. Quite a few hams love to stick straight pins through the coax cables of CBers who use illegal amps. Yes, if there is an emergency/SHTF situation, than all bets are off. Until then, put forth the effort to get a license (come on – you don’t even have to know Morse code any more!).
- John | 2021 November 19 at 01:56 | Reply
  
  “Quite a few hams love to stick straight pins through the coax cables of CBers who use illegal amps.”
  Sounds like a good way to end a transmitter. Just my 2 cents.
  - Chris | 2022 June 12 at 04:14 | Reply
    
    I think that’s kinda the point.
Drew M | 2015 November 7 at 17:57 | Reply

Folks, its really tempting to go outside the CB band. MOST of the frequencies are still being used for industrial scientific and government use. We have jerks wrecking the 10 meter Ham band, occasionally, a trucking company gets slammed when they decide “Channel 51” is going to be the “lets bash the company channel.” Lets look at 27.490-520- popular area for folks overseas…IT IS ALLOCATED TO SEARCH AND RESCUE. How about below ch.1? Well, 26.600-26.700 area is reportedly used. MARS uses the area around 27.750-28.000, Red cross has a smattering of frequencies above and below the CB band, and the civil air patrol has a bunch of area allocated to them for SAR and short range ground work in the 26.250 and up to 26.890. Government branches you do NOT want to bother are below 26.905…I have heard comms on 26.725 on FM that sure sounded like some really serious fellows. Petroleum industry uses 27.450 area for remote line control and security , the forest service has a bunch of frequencies in the 27.430-495 . I can go on and on…these frequencies, with the exception of small gaps to prevent interference among the licensed users, ARE ACTIVE. If you want to have a radio that can help you and others, Build a real radio station that can work band spectrum from just above the AM broadcast band to light! Its not expensive, its not that hard. I never looked back after I did.
Leeroy | 2015 November 14 at 07:16 | Reply

Thanks for the useful info. I have a Stryker 955 radio and it has the ability to reach freqs like 27.368. It has a VFO that can be adjusted in different incruments. I will need these charts for my prep plans in order to be able to communicate with my family members that are all over the state. I do intend to get my Ham license in order to get onto more bands such as 20 meters.
Richard Reynolds | 2015 November 21 at 04:10 | Reply

I operated “HF” channels in the areas above CB channels when CB was only 23 channels, and most of the HFers were on USB. I then got my ham ticket (now extra class ticket) and participate in SAR. I continue to be an avid CBer when I am on the road. Yes, my radio has the ability to tune any frequency from 25 MHz to 29 MHz. I also operate a ham station that talks around the world. I have the ability to operate for four weeks with no power from utilities.

Believe me that there is no point to all the off-channel and free channel tuning. There are plenty of CB channels that have very little traffic. We now have 40 channels, and some of the upper channels are used in upper side-band mode by many folks across the country. You can tune to all sorts of so-called “secret” channels and the result will be that you will find no one to talk to.

A major problem with CB is propagation. When “skip rolls in” or when conditions result in nationwide propagation of radio signals, you get such a high noise level (sometimes exceeding S-9) that local communication is totally drowned out.
D J | 2015 December 29 at 09:53 | Reply

Just my two cents here….When the SHTF, where is the FCC?? There wont be any regulation for any radio spectrum, so all the info in this forum is going to be very useful. That being said, stay legal now so you dont get your equipment taken away from you. And just so everyone knows, I am a licensed ham operator and have my General Radiotelephone license. Basics everyone should know are the mathematical equation for a basic 1/4 wave antenna. (234/freq in MHZ) You can use this formula to make any 1/4 wave antenna which does not require components to match the antenna system to the radio. for better horizon use, double the length of the antenna for a 1/2 wave, still does not require matching components. just remember to bend the 4 ground plane elements down to about 45degree angle to frovide a 50 impedence at cut frequency. and by using multiples of 1/4 wave lengths, a multiband antenna can be had for really cheep.
27 MHZ = 102 inches at 1/4 wave also a 1/2 wave at 54 MhZ
146 MHZ = 18 inches at 1/4 wave also a 3/4 wave antenna at 445 Mhz
445 MHZ = 6 inches at 1/4 wave also a 1/2 wave antenna at 900 MHz
Hope this helps
Amelia Martin | 2016 March 13 at 14:46 | Reply

Saved like a favourite, magnificent site!
POB | 2016 April 23 at 00:07 | Reply

Any interest in INDIANA, CHNL 16 USB, IS A GOOD CHANNEL. 795
POB | 2016 April 23 at 00:17 | Reply

GOOD WEBPAGE, INTERESTING.
I monitor channel 16 daily 9-8 pm, shout anytime. 795
Tony | 2016 August 4 at 12:12 | Reply

If you like some radio drama try 27.115 or ch.13, it’s the St.Louis, MO area. 3 around the band
- Mg | 2016 December 28 at 05:53 | Reply
  
  Looking for other peppers in the 63116. Still fine tuning the rig in the car but my standard freq on home unit is 155.0000. Any help would be great
Jim | 2016 August 18 at 20:46 | Reply

I can’t find anything for the magnum. Someone burnt the pads off so you can’t mod to 11 meter that way. Looking for another way. jcox241@msn.com
- Roy Ferguson | 2017 May 12 at 13:03 | Reply
  
  royferguson824@gmail.com
  Just rigged up my old HR.2510.
  constructed a demi-quad antenna.
  I am in England .South-East ..between Dover and Canterbury. Can not wait for some sporadic Skip to say Hi to any of you guys across the pond (U. S. of A) I had some GREAT Q S. L Cards back in the day when C. B. and side-band’s were a way of life.
  I loved my amtron and Laffiatte modified radio. I REALLY would like to work some skip. I am hoping there is a 10-11 meter community still at large. I am 50 -years plus .I still have my equipment (out- of-moth-balls) . Be delighted to hear from anyone who feels the same way as I do. Packet radio and facebook does not present me with any challenge. 73’s etc. to anyone who can be bothered to talk ‘home-brew’ antennas and nostalgia to me I am E.Y. 206 (call-sign)
  Tom Sawyer (c.b.) handle or Roy to the non-radio people. I love to hear something back. Or am I asking TOO MUCH from this high -tech world.
  All the best is radio really DEAD to
  us unqualified 10-11 meter trolls.
  Fingers – crossed…..
  royferguson824@gmail.com
hamebone | 2016 November 2 at 19:28 | Reply

Thanks. I’m looking for other preppers on the air. I use channel 37 USB and sometimes 27425 USB. Some of the local preppers also use AM.
- Four One Oh Midway | 2016 November 2 at 23:26 | Reply
  
  listen on 27.385 USB when conditions are right for 4-1-0 Midway,
  That would be me from chicago with my “hidden” tower. I hit Trinidad with that little bad boy..
Roy Ferguson | 2017 May 12 at 13:12 | Reply

Any one still want to shoot skip??
I in south England Canterbury /
Got HR2510 ..home-brew demi -quad beam
And I have taken my radio out of moth-balls. It all works weĺl just need someone outsideEurope who wants to get back to low-tech communication.
Please feel free to build a report with ME . I am 52 an wanna have some real-communication. 73’s etc. Zmy kindered-spirits
- Marvin | 2018 March 25 at 20:58 | Reply
  
  Who is skip? And why does skip need to be shot? Maybe the local Law Enforcement Agency can get involved to prevent any undue firearms discharge thus preventing somebody getting seriously hurt or killed and somebody else from going to prison.
  Something to think about.
Ticom | 2017 July 7 at 21:14 | Reply

I’m sure Frank would approve, especially 27.9 MC FM.
Ken | 2018 October 4 at 07:12 | Reply

There is a lot of great information here. I don’t have the time nor inclination to deal with it all, so here are the important points:

1. “Freebanding” is simply a sanitized word for pirate operation. If you want to get a ham license, get a license. If not, then that’s fine too. It is so easy that kids get them easily. .
2. All radio frequencies can be heard, so transmitting outside of the defined channels is not going to magically hide your conversations.
3. There are plenty of CB channels, and these days they are not used much……you only need one to talk on anyway.
4. Have fun…… they are there for a good reason. I am a ham, but I still have my good old 23 channel CB radios. If I want to chat on CB, I crank them up and they work just fine. I love SSB. AM is just fine. And if the world comes to an end, I will be spending more time chatting on my radios…..including my ham gear.

Take care all…..
Kenneth Lynch Sr. | 2018 December 22 at 18:35 | Reply

this is a very good page it includes cb ch lsb upsb sssb im make a copy of this page thnk you very much .
William Polsky | 2018 December 26 at 04:16 | Reply

I didn’t read all of the comments here, but, perhaps, someone may have mentioned that in the United States, the frequencies above 27.405 and the beginning of the 10-meter amateur band is not a “free band” by any means. It is considered out-of-band operation. Why it was ever called freeband, per se, I’ll never understand. The same goes for frequencies below CB channel one until you get to the amateur radio 12-meter portion. There was, and may still be some allocation for commercial broadcast relay slightly below channel one in the United States. Frequencies above channel 40 and the 10-meter band did have some allocation for business band use, but that ceased many years ago. That’s why we found commercially manufactured linear amplifiers back in the 60s that would work on the 11-meter band that for some time have been declared illegal to manufacture or sell.
Kenneth Lynch Sr. | 2019 March 4 at 18:04 | Reply

thank you very much i printed all the ssb and usb and lsb frequencies papabear
Zero58. | 2019 May 31 at 12:26 | Reply

I’ve been into Pirate 11 meter radio for years and have talked as far as Russia on a 40+ year old Modified Am/SSB radio and a ever older tube amplifier..and so has many others! FCC could care less about 10/11/12 meter band, and in all my time on the airwaves I have never heard of anyone getting busted for running off bands or having a linear amplifier, losing all their equipment or receiving heavy fines for illegal use. The majority of Hams that I have met over the years have a attitude towards 11 meter operators,and all the ham operators..before they got their ticket for ham operations were operation 11 meter also! The 11 meter band is in the middle of Ham Bands..and the Outlaws/Pirates/Preppers are not going anywhere..so their is only one choise….give the devil its due!
TAC-OPS | 2019 October 6 at 11:23 | Reply

During peace time (lol) I myself would use a little common sense and caution on the freeband primarily because I have heard of cases where someone got reported to the FCC by another operator for whatever reason. But I think the bottom line is if we are not keying up 5K amps and interfering with cell towers and someones internet then no one will be coming after us. When we go into a Hot situation I would really only fear enemy monitoring for activity but I really doubt the gov or military would bother, they’ll be too busy pointing fingers at each other blaming the other as to why we are in a Hot crisis. Great information here, have you b/m’d and check back often. Keep up the good work!
- FLMontgomery | 2021 March 25 at 17:55 | Reply
  
  TAC-OPS 100% agree. I might add in an appropriate shtf situation- ie, financial collapse, nuclear event etc no one is going to care if you possess a ham license in such an emergency. I have ham but no license. Don’t need one to listen and would only transmitt in a certain emergency shtf situation. The best to ya.
Daki | 2019 December 11 at 22:42 | Reply

That’s a nice read that you shared.with us. Out of curiosity, how popular are the Albrecht Models in the USA? You guys are more into President, Cobra, Uniden, aren’t you?

Greetings from the other side of the World ;).

Daki aka Daniel Kilian
Ron | 2020 February 15 at 02:09 | Reply

New looking for more details
Pedro | 2020 February 29 at 21:19 | Reply

Hope some day the conditions on 27.920 will be like it was in the 80ties.
Made so many friends back then, and still am in contact with some of them after such a long time. take care 19 ww 48
Roger | 2022 August 22 at 13:35 | Reply

“Secret” frequencies? Not anymore now that you have published them!

	radiofreeq on SHTF Survivalist Radio Frequen…
	stardiq on Program Your VHF UHF Transceiv…
	n1pce on SHTF Survivalist Radio Frequen…
	Brad on SHTF Prepper Radio Frequency…
	skipkirkwood on SHTF Prepper Radio Frequency…

Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List

CB 27 MHz Frequency Channel Chart for 6-Band Export Radios

Some possible freeband radios which have ‘extra channels’ in the 11 meter band 27 MHz.

63 responses to “Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List”

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Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List

CB 27 MHz Frequency Channel Chart for 6-Band Export Radios

Some possible freeband radios which have ‘extra channels’ in the 11 meter band 27 MHz.

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63 responses to “Survivalist SSB CB Freeband Channel Frequency List”

Leave a comment Cancel reply

FM versus NFM

Patriot Radio Channels

Militia Radio Frequencies

RadioMaster Reports Articles

Marine Channel Frequency Programming for VHF-UHF Radios

The SHTF.

Follow via Email

3-3-3 Radio Plan

Stats

Recent Comments

Militia Radio Frequencies

SHTF Survival Radios

Survivalist CB SSB Radio Freeband

This Week’s Episode of Doomsday Radio Operators

HF Radio Contact at a Survivalist Camp

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