Description
Serious UHF communication for the toughest Australian conditions—built to survive dust, water, and whatever you throw at it.
Product Overview
The GME TX6165XY represents the current benchmark in handheld UHF CB communication for Australian users who demand reliability in harsh environments. This 5-watt handheld radio combines military-grade durability with practical features designed for real-world use across worksites, touring rigs, and remote properties. The TX6165 delivers clear communication through its 2-watt speaker and high-contrast LCD display, while IP67 ingress protection and MIL-STD810G rating ensure it survives dust storms, rain, drops, and the daily punishment of professional use. With switchable 5/1 watt transmission power and up to 30 hours battery life from the included 2600mAh Li-Ion pack, this radio keeps you connected when it matters most. The user-programmable button, VOX hands-free mode, and built-in LED torch add versatility for both commercial operators and recreational users who need dependable UHF CB communication in Australia's demanding conditions.
Key Specifications
- 5/1 watt switchable UHF CB transmission power (476-477 MHz, 80 channels)
- 2-watt speaker output for clear audio in noisy environments
- IP67 ingress protection rating (dust-tight and waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes)
- MIL-STD810G military durability standard compliance
- 2600mAh Li-Ion battery pack with up to 30 hours battery life (typical use)
- High-contrast LCD display readable in direct sunlight
- Built-in LED torch with independent operation
- VOX hands-free mode for operation without PTT button
- Dual Watch and Triple Watch scanning functions
- Priority channel monitoring
- User-programmable function button
- Rotary power/volume control knob
- Includes desktop charger (BCD020), AC adaptor (PS002), antenna (AE4021), and belt clip (MB060)
Features & Benefits
Military-Grade Toughness for Real Australian Conditions
The IP67 rating means complete dust protection and waterproof performance to 1 metre—critical when you're caught in a dust storm on a remote track or working through a downpour on site. The MIL-STD810G certification proves this radio survives drops, vibration, extreme temperatures, and the punishment of daily professional use. This isn't a radio that stays in the glovebox; it's built to cop a beating and keep working.
5-Watt Power When You Need Range
Switchable 5/1 watt transmission gives you maximum legal UHF CB power for extended range in open terrain, or drop to 1 watt to conserve battery during short-range communication around camp or on the jobsite. That 5-watt output delivers genuine reach across paddocks, between convoy vehicles on corrugated tracks, or from the bottom of a gully back to base.
30-Hour Battery Life Gets You Through the Week
The 2600mAh Li-Ion battery pack delivers up to 30 hours of typical use—enough for extended touring trips, multi-day work rotations, or a full week of site communication without scrambling for a charger. The included desktop charger and AC adaptor make overnight charging simple, and the Li-Ion chemistry means no memory effect when you top up between shifts.
2-Watt Speaker You Can Actually Hear
That 2-watt speaker output cuts through engine noise, wind, and worksite clatter. You'll hear incoming calls clearly in a moving 4WD, on a noisy construction site, or with machinery running nearby—critical for safety communication when every call matters.
Large LCD Display You Can Read in the Sun
The high-contrast LCD remains clearly visible in direct Australian sunlight, eliminating the squinting and shading you get with cheaper radios. Check your channel, monitor signal strength, and view battery status at a glance, even at midday in the outback.
VOX Hands-Free Mode for True Mobility
VOX (voice-activated transmission) lets you communicate without pressing the PTT button—essential when you're steering a vehicle, operating equipment, or carrying gear with both hands. Sensitivity adjustment ensures reliable triggering without false activation from background noise.
Built-In LED Torch for After-Dark Work
The integrated LED torch operates independently from radio functions, providing illumination for after-dark vehicle checks, setting up camp, or navigating to the ute at knock-off time. It's one less piece of gear to carry and one less battery to maintain.
Dual/Triple Watch Keeps You Across Multiple Channels
Dual Watch and Triple Watch scanning monitors your selected channels simultaneously, so you don't miss calls on secondary channels while monitoring your primary. Perfect for operators who need to track multiple work crews, convoy groups, or property zones without constant manual switching.
User-Programmable Button for Your Workflow
Assign frequently used functions to the programmable button—whether that's scan, monitor, torch, or channel selection—tailoring the radio's operation to your specific communication workflow rather than forcing you into a one-size-fits-all button layout.
Complete Kit Ready to Use
Everything's in the box: radio, 2600mAh battery pack, desktop charger, AC adaptor, stubby antenna, and belt clip. No hunting for compatible accessories or discovering you need extra purchases to get on air—charge it up and you're transmitting.
Technical Specs
- Frequency Range: 476.425 MHz – 477.4125 MHz (UHF CB, 80 channels)
- Output Power: 5 watt / 1 watt (switchable)
- Speaker Output: 2 watts
- Battery: 2600mAh Li-Ion (BP026)
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours (typical use, 5/5/90 duty cycle)
- Ingress Protection: IP67 (dust-tight, waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes)
- Durability Standard: MIL-STD810G
- Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C
- Dimensions: Not specified
- Weight: Not specified
- Included Accessories: BP026 battery pack, BCD020 desktop charger, PS002 AC adaptor, AE4021 antenna, MB060 belt clip
- Functions: VOX, Dual Watch, Triple Watch, Priority Channel, Scan, LED torch
- Display: Large high-contrast LCD
- Controls: Rotary power/volume knob, user-programmable button
- Colour: Yellow high-visibility housing
Compatible With / Goes Well With
Vehicle UHF CB Systems
Pairs with GME vehicle-mounted UHF CB radios (TX3520, TX4500, XRS series) for dual handheld/vehicle communication setups in work fleets or touring convoys.
External Antennas
Compatible with GME AE4018 whip antenna (extended range), AE4704 flexible antenna (snag-resistant), or GME speaker microphones for enhanced audio and convenience.
Additional Battery Packs
GME BP026 spare 2600mAh Li-Ion battery packs allow instant battery swaps for extended operations without waiting for charging.
Desktop Chargers and Multi-Bay Charging
GME multi-bay desktop chargers are available for fleet applications requiring simultaneous charging of multiple radios and spare battery packs.
Heavy-Duty Carry Cases
GME and third-party protective cases provide additional impact protection and secure storage for radio, spare batteries, and accessories during transport.
4WD Communication Systems
Integrates into 4WD touring setups alongside GME vehicle radios, intercoms, and emergency beacons for comprehensive remote area communication.
Worksites and Commercial Fleets
Suitable for construction sites, mining operations, agricultural properties, security patrols, and any commercial application requiring reliable UHF CB communication under ACMA regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this radio legal to use without a license in Australia?
Yes, the TX6165XY operates on the UHF CB band (476-477 MHz, 80 channels) which is license-free for use in Australia under ACMA regulations.
How long does the battery actually last in real-world use?
GME rates battery life at up to 30 hours based on typical use (5% transmit, 5% receive, 90% standby). Heavy transmission use or constant scanning will reduce runtime; light monitoring use may extend it beyond 30 hours.
Can I use this radio while it's charging?
Yes, the TX6165 supports operation while connected to the desktop charger, useful for base station use or extended monitoring applications without battery drain.
What's the actual range I can expect?
Range depends heavily on terrain. Expect 1-3 km in dense bush or urban areas, 5-10 km in open farmland or coastal areas, and up to 15-25 km line-of-sight between hilltops with external antennas.
Does the IP67 rating cover submersion or just rain?
IP67 provides complete protection against dust and allows temporary immersion to 1 metre depth for up to 30 minutes. It handles rain, hose-downs, and accidental drops in water, but isn't designed for prolonged underwater use.
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Buying from an authorized dealer ensures you’re getting genuine products, full warranty coverage, and expert support. Ask yourself—is saving a few bucks worth losing all that?
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