The HTX-10 is a lightweight, compact, and affordable ham radio. While only outputting 25 watts, several reviewers were able to make contacts across North America and internationally on 10 meters using the radio. It performs well for its size and price point, making it a good option for new ham operators or for mobile and camping use, as long as a good antenna is used. Some downsides include a small microphone and lack of audio output power for highway use, but overall reviewers thought it was worth the price for an entry-level radio.

1. The HTX-10
James W LePage

2. Specifications

3. Controls
OFF/VOLUME - turns the radio on/off; adjusts the volume.
RF-G/MIC-G - attenuates strong signals; reduces the microphone's gain
and SSB transmitting power.
STEP/NB/1 - selects the frequency tuning step: turns the noise
blanker on/off/ selects memory Channel 1.
CALL/2 - quickly recalls a frequency in memory Channel 2; selects
memory Channel 2.
SCAN/SHIFT/3 - starts/stops scanning; selects the frequency shift;
selects memory Channel 3.
LCR/4 - recalls the last turned channel; selects memory Channel 4
MODE/T-LOW/5 - selects the operation band, AM/FM/USB/LSB; turns hi-cut
filter on/off; selects memory Channel 5.
M-LOAD/M-SAVE - loads from/saves to a memory location.
FINE/PUSH FUNC - adjusts fine tuning; activates second function.
SQUELCH - sets the squelch level to block weak signals.
TUNE - selects a frequency.

4. E-ham Reviews
Five Stars
I believe the HTX-10 to be a good radio however I am speaking about
the newer version sold as the Magnum 257-hp. This radio is a mobile
radio and I do not expect it to be as good as one of my radio's in my
shack however with that said the radio performs fine and if I can hear
it I usually can work it.
The Magnum 257-hp is capable of 80 watts pep and has FM as a
feature as well. However on FM you only get one pl of 88.5. This isnt
a big deal to me as most coordinated repeaters hear in Ohio do not
have a pl.
I run the radio with a cut down 11m K40 antenna with an external
speaker and it has provided me alot of enjoyment. So if you are
looking for an HTX-10 google Magnum 257-hp and give one a try. I
got mine for $214 shipped from the address below.
http://www.gijoesradioelectronics.com/scripts/prodView.asp?
idproduct=1296
Five Stars
Got one like new with a 10 meter mobile antenna. Made contacts
with Europe, United States and local with only 25 watts. Tiny
microphone, but radio performs just fine. Great for new ham
operators.
4 Stars
Great little radio. At first I thought it was junk. At least compared
to my icom 706MK2G. However now I prefer it to my 706 for 10m
DX. Great for mobile or hiking/camping use. I have talked to CA,
TX, Fl, HI, British Columbia, Brazil and Argentina on mine. With
no amp! Just run a good antenna. I use a Wilson 5000 for mobile
and a simple home-brew dipole for mountain top use. 25w works
much better on 10m than you think it would. If I can hear the other
station clearly then I can usually get back to them. Plus you can
run for a very long time on simple 12v 7ah SLA batteries.
Pro's
--Light weight
---small
----easy to use
---cheap
---Low amp draw, works great off of SLA batteries
Con's
---small mic but you get used to it.
---looks like a cheap crappy CB radio.
--only puts out 25w
--squelch on sideband could be better
--could have more audio output for freeway use.
--Umm I'm really trying here people! It's hard to kick this radio!
If you can get one for around a hundred bucks buy it! They are
worth it!

5. My Review
This is a great all around radio. Like suggested
in one of the reviews this would be a great 10
meter rig for camping. Its very lightweight and
easy to handle and use. 4.5 out of 5