KG4ZHA here. I have been doing it for a little over 10 years now. I second the Baofeng recommendation, it is a great starter radio and you will be able to find a local 2m repeater to participate in.
I would also recommend looking for a local radio club, or see if ARES has an organization in your area.
While not required anymore for HF, I have the most fun with CW. It is amazing what some of the small 1-5w QRP radios are capable of these days. There are plenty of small kits that will get you on the air in an afternoon of assembly.
I would also recommend looking for a local radio club, or see if ARES has an organization in your area.
While not required anymore for HF, I have the most fun with CW. It is amazing what some of the small 1-5w QRP radios are capable of these days. There are plenty of small kits that will get you on the air in an afternoon of assembly.