How far will a handheld CB reach?

There are several procedures for ensuring maximum output.

So according to our rule-of-thumb, 2 people around 6 feet tall using a 5 watt handheld two-way radio, used on flat ground with no obstacles, will have a maximum range of approximately 6 miles .

Portable CB Radio Range If you’re using a portable CB radio while walking around in the shopping mall, your range may be as little as 100 yards . If you use portable units for communication between two vehicles, you can expect about a one-mile range.