Scanners

[Lightspeed]

Ali:

Yes, the Baofengs are somewhat complex to set-up. But unless you have experience with complex radios, you will find that setting up a scanner will be equally complex.

You do not need a license to own, keep or use a UV5r. In this context <<use>> means monitoring and scanning. A license is only needed for transmitting.

I'd recommend you get one (a uv5r) and invest some time working out how to use it. (It is not obligatory to buy a programming cable either as they can be programmed from the unit itself)

Re shortwave receivers: Even one of these will be a useful tool. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Full-Band-Radi...Sw1DtXKw5I
Although pretty crude, it will be capable of picking up broadcasts worldwide. From time to time Superdrug do even more crude versions of this receiver, often knocking them out for less than 5 quid. My last one is now in the hands of a young nephew, and he's able to pick up stuff from all over Europe, Africa, Russia, China, USA and South America :-)