Shortwave or Ham radios are one of the most reliable tools for long-distance communication, especially in a crisis where the internet, phones, and other modern infrastructure have failed. Unlike local VHF and UHF radio signals, which rely on line-of-sight transmission, shortwave frequencies bounce off the ionosphere, allowing communication over hundreds or even thousands of miles.
This ability to reach beyond the horizon creates shortwave radios essential for survival, intelligence gathering, and staying connected when all other forms of communication are compromised.
My husband has been using and fixing old radios and short-wave radios for quite a while. He has his ham radio license and speaks with people worldwide. He used to have a large HAM radio setup and would spend hours doing contests, talking to people. He would speak his call-sign to make the connection and get a postal address to send a postcard. He collected postcards from people he would connect with. He won a lot of contests by connecting with a ton of fellow ‘Hamsters’. He just has a handheld Ham radio now.
Understanding frequency selection and propagation conditions is key to using shortwave radio effectively. Shortwave bands operate between 1.6 MHz and 30 MHz, but not all frequencies perform equally at all times.
The ionosphere changes throughout the day due to solar radiation, meaning that higher frequencies (15-30 MHz) work better during the day, while lower frequencies (3-10 MHz) are more effective at night. If trying to reach a specific location, experimenting with different frequencies based on the time of day is necessary to find the best signal path.
Tuning into the correct frequencies requires knowing which bands are active. Many shortwave radios have a built-in frequency guide, but real-time band conditions can change due to weather, solar activity, or interference.
Monitoring official government broadcasts, amateur radio networks, and emergency frequencies provides access to critical news, weather reports, and disaster updates. Keeping a logbook of active frequencies helps track reliable channels for future communication.
Selecting the right radio is essential. Some shortwave radios are designed for receiving only, allowing users to listen to broadcasts but not transmit. Others, such as amateur HF transceivers, offer two-way communication.
If using shortwave for survival or emergency coordination, a transceiver with multiple band coverage and adjustable power output is the best choice. Battery-operated or crank-powered models ensure functionality even when power grids fail.
Antenna setup plays a crucial role in signal strength and transmission range. Standard built-in antennas on portable radios may work for listening to strong stations. Still, an external long-wire, dipole, or loop antenna is needed for long-distance reception and transmission.
Running a simple wire antenna between two trees or buildings significantly improves reception. For transmitting, directional antennas like Yagi or NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) setups enhance communication to specific areas.
Single sideband (SSB) mode on a shortwave radio allows clearer voice transmission over long distances while conserving power. Many emergency broadcasts and amateur radio operators use USB (Upper Sideband) above 10 MHz and LSB (Lower Sideband) below 10 MHz. Knowing how to switch between modes ensures compatibility with different networks.
Power supply is a significant factor in long-term shortwave use. Radios with internal batteries, solar charging options, hand-crank generators, or vehicle power adapters provide backup options when grid power is unavailable. Carrying spare batteries, rechargeable packs, or a deep-cycle battery with an inverter extends operational capability in extended crises.
Shortwave radios are most effective when paired with prearranged schedules and frequencies. If coordinating with a group over long distances, setting up a window for transmission, such as tuning in at a specific time each day on a preselected frequency, ensures messages are received even when conditions make continuous monitoring impossible.
Emergency networks like the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES), Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS), and shortwave news broadcasters provide additional sources of information.
Understanding interference and noise reduction improves communication quality. Urban environments, power lines, and electronic devices generate radio noise that can weaken signals.
Moving away from electromagnetic interference sources, grounding the antenna properly, and using noise filters can help eliminate background static. Positioning a loop antenna indoors or using a ferrite core to suppress noise can improve signal clarity in extreme conditions.
Shortwave radio provides a powerful tool for intelligence gathering in a crisis. Governments, military forces, and underground networks often use coded or encrypted messages over shortwave bands, especially during wartime or disasters.
Learning Morse code (CW mode – Continuous Mode), number station decoding, or digital mode transmission allows access to a wider range of communications. Software-defined radios (SDRs) and computer decoders can help analyze complex transmissions.
Maintaining radio discipline and security is critical for two-way communication. Unlike encrypted military channels, shortwave transmissions are public and can be intercepted.
Using coded language, frequency hopping, and low-power transmissions minimizes detection risk. Tuning to an agreed-upon frequency at prearranged times, transmitting briefly, and then switching frequencies reduces the likelihood of being triangulated by unwanted listeners.
Shortwave radio remains one of the most resilient forms of communication in a crisis. Whether for long-distance coordination, gathering intelligence, or accessing emergency broadcasts, a well-maintained shortwave setup provides vital connectivity when modern systems collapse.
Those who learn how to properly select frequencies, optimize antenna performance, and secure power sources will always have an advantage in maintaining communication under extreme conditions. Do you use a short-wave or HAM radio? How do you use it? Do you know how to communicate with Morse code? Are you licensed and have a call sign? It’s something I will do in the near future. Please reply in the comments below. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
