Communications

[The War Wagon]

I've got some cheap-azz Midland FRS/GMRS talkies that I got at Radio Shack, back in the day.  "Rated - 30 miles" the packaging said!     More like, HALF mile... on a GOOD day. 

And like you said - they're better than 'yelling.'  I have SEVERAL Baofengs, that probably ARE good for a couple of miles - including some MORE powerful ones, that are now banned from import, that MIGHT actually BE good for ten miles or so.

Comms are force multipliers, and ANY comms, are better than none.  KEEP working on them though, and strive to get better - JUST like with firearms.  SOME is good; QUALITY is better.

[Zombie.Hunter]

So what are the best walkie talkies the average joe can buy without having to take out a loan?

[PRIME_Ω_PREDATOR]

I picked up some midland handhelds that we use during deer season. I also got headsets for them. They work pretty well.

[The War Wagon]

So what are the best walkie talkies the average joe can buy without having to take out a loan?

Baofengs are still pretty cheap, and you can get pairs of 'em for >$40 on Amazon.