Looking for a great way to stay in touch while hiking, skiing, camping, or shopping? With an impressive two-mile range, the TalkAbout 250 is one powerful two-way radio, sporting 14 channels with 38 privacy codes to help block out unwanted messages. The striking design makes the radio's exterior as cool as its features. In our tests, we encountered no problems with interference or with finding free channels. The reception was clear, without too much static. We especially liked the scan lock, which scans through the channels until it finds an active channel. Scan-lock automatically locks in the channel, letting you listen-in discreetly or talk with other parties.Most of the buttons are intuitive enough to figure out, although we do suggest a quick read of the manual in order to fully appreciate the power of the TalkAbout 250. The placement of the talk button--inconveniently located in the center of the radio--makes it difficult to speak while holding down the button.