I can hear people on CB, they don't reply?!

I can hear people on CB, they don't reply?

I can hear several people talking on my new CB radio but do not hear any replies...i once got a reply when i did a radio check, any other time i do i dont get a reply, is it that they just ignore me or are too busy talking or just dont get my signal as i can hear them just fine. It's quite frustrating because this is my first CB and i was looking forward to talking to more people. I have an about 2 and half foot whip antena with this CB radio ( http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.... )

Thanks for any help i would most greatly appreciate it.

1 month ago
does swr have anything to do with it?

1 month ago
I am in a car with my CB, if that helps any.

1 month ago
will buying a more expensive CB radio keep me from having to buy additional equiptment, I.E. (better antenna, amp, etc.).?

1 month ago
what antenna do you recommend?

Your problem may be even more simple than you think and it has nothing to do with no-one liking you.

The reason you can hear people talking is because they have a more powerful CB (More Wattage output) -

Your CB does not work better because you have a long antenna...sure it helps, but you need to have more power. Besides a 30" antenna is not very long to begin with. You really need to invest in a quality Wilson 1000 or if you really want to help yourself, go pick up a 102" whip and a solid ground plane.

Additionally, If you are serious about Citizens Band (CB) you may want to consider getting yourself a Linear (Amp). That will help your signal increase in range.

Also, If you have big hill where you live...try driving to the top of it and then 'Key up' and request a radio check. Having your antenna higher than everyone else will help increase your send a receive radius.

If you have other questions, feel free to email me directly.

Finally, your radio is more of a beginner radio and it needs all sorts of extra parts (Which I mentioned above) to get it competing with the other signals you here out there.

Good luck and try not to stomp on too many people out there.

If you are ever in So cal, my handle is "Rolodex" we take over triple nickle daily!