Kenwood TM-281A 2 Meter VHF Mobile Amateur Radio 65W

The Kenwood TM-281A is a 2-meter (144-148 MHz) FM mobile amateur radio transceiver putting out 65 watts of high-power transmit. Built to military MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G environmental standards (vibration, shock, dust, humidity), the TM-281A is Kenwood's tough workhorse for ham operators who need reliable VHF mobile communications in vehicles, base stations, and off-road applications.

The wide-range receiver covers 136-174 MHz, including the NOAA weather band with built-in weather alert tone. 200 memory channels with 6-character alphanumeric tagging (100 channels with tags) keep your favorite repeaters, simplex frequencies, and weather channels organized. Front-facing 5W speaker delivers loud, clear audio without an external speaker.

IMPORTANT: This is an amateur (ham) radio. An FCC Technician Class license or higher is required to legally transmit. The TM-281A is NOT a CB radio (CB operates on 27 MHz 11-meter band with 4W max, no license required).

• 65W high / 25W low transmit power on 2-meter band (144-148 MHz)
• Wide-range receive 136-174 MHz including NOAA weather
• NOAA weather alert tone built-in
• 200 memory channels (100 with 6-character alphanumeric tags)
• MIL-STD 810 C/D/E/F/G environmental compliance
• Front-facing 5W speaker (no external speaker needed)
• CTCSS and DCS continuous tone squelch (encode/decode)
• Narrow Band FM (NFM) capable
• Replaces the popular TM-271A with same legendary Kenwood reliability

What's in the box: Kenwood TM-281A radio body, microphone with hang-up bracket, DC power cable with inline fuses, mounting bracket and screws, instruction manual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to use this radio?
Yes. An FCC Amateur Technician Class license or higher is required to legally transmit on the 2-meter amateur band. The Technician exam is a 35-question test on basic radio theory, regulations, and operating procedures, with no Morse code requirement. Many local ham clubs offer free study classes and exam sessions. You can receive (listen) without a license, but transmitting without one is illegal.

Is this a CB radio?
No. The TM-281A is an amateur (ham) radio operating on the 2-meter band (144-148 MHz, VHF), which requires an FCC license. CB radios operate on the 11-meter band (27 MHz) with a 4-watt maximum power limit, do not require a license, and use entirely different equipment.

What is 65 watts good for?
65 watts on 2 meters gives you excellent range to local and regional repeaters (typically 30-60+ miles to a well-sited repeater) and direct simplex-to-simplex contacts up to about 20-30 miles in flat terrain.

Does it pick up NOAA weather?
Yes. The TM-281A has dedicated NOAA weather channels in the wide receive range, and supports weather alert tone reception.

Can I use this in a vehicle and at home?
Yes. The TM-281A is designed for mobile (vehicle) use with the included DC power cable and bracket, but with a separate 13.8V DC power supply (sold separately), it works equally well as a base station.

What antenna do I need?
A 2-meter mag-mount antenna for vehicle use is the most common starter. For base station use, a vertical 2-meter ground plane or J-pole antenna mounted as high as possible. Antenna and coax are sold separately. Call CSO for antenna recommendations.

How does it compare to the older TM-271A?
The TM-281A is the current production replacement for the TM-271A. 65W output (vs 60W on the 271A), amber LCD backlight, slight PCB redesign. A direct upgrade.

Warranty

Kenwood standard manufacturer warranty. Military and First Responders are encouraged to use credentials in the cart section before checking out.

Need help with fit or compatibility? Carolina Sportsman Outfitters has been outfitting ham operators and outdoor radio users since 2015, we know the part numbers and can verify compatibility with antennas, power supplies, and accessories before you order. Call 252-431-6001.

Backed by Kenwood manufacturer warranty and CSO's expert product support. Financing available at checkout, no credit needed.