If you want something cheap to get started, or maybe some extras to bury in EMP resistant containers, you can get a Baofeng UV-5R for next to nothing. Version 2 still has restricted bands. 2+ and later they are blocked. They are also very small. I think Version 1 is the one that has illegal power, but it is switchable. You just have to make sure you don't use it. This is not a recommendation for a primary radio.
If you want something cheap to get started, or maybe some extras to bury in EMP resistant containers, you can get a Baofeng UV-5R for next to nothing. Version 2 still has restricted bands. 2+ and later they are blocked. They are also very small. I think Version 1 is the one that has illegal power, but it is switchable. You just have to make sure you don't use it. This is not a recommendation for a primary radio.
I'm a complete beginner in this.
You should probably find a local ham club to talk to.
Small town, doubtful but never know. Thanks.
http://www.arrl.org/find-a-club