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United Kingdom · Licence exam

Buying used ham radio equipment in the UK

Try a member of your local club first when you buy used ham radio equipment in the UK. The RSGB suggests that because you can easily get back to the seller if something goes wrong, and you can ask why they’re selling. Dealers cost more but usually check the radio and give some warranty. Whoever you buy from, test before you pay.

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Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

Where should you buy used ham radio equipment in the UK?

WhereGood pointsWatch out for
Club memberEasy to contact if there’s a problem. You can ask why they’re selling.Still test it.
DealerUsually checked before sale, often with a warranty, and you may be able to try it.Higher prices.
Private saleUsually cheaper.Usually no warranty, so more risk is yours.
Online auctionIf the seller is local, you can ask to see and test the radio before the auction ends.The RSGB calls it perhaps the worst way to buy: photos rarely show the condition and descriptions can be vague.
RSGB: Buying a used transceiver ↗Find a club →

What to check before you pay

  • Test receive and transmit on as many bands as you can, and ask for a signal report.
  • Look and smell for signs of burning.
  • Check every button and function works.
  • Ask about the original box and handbook. Missing ones can be a warning sign of a stolen radio, though plenty of people throw boxes away.
  • If you’re unsure, take an experienced club member with you.

Buying at an online auction

Read the description carefully and ask questions. “A few scratches” can mean different things to different sellers. If the seller is near you, ask to see and test the radio before the auction ends. Faults that aren’t obvious at first can be expensive to repair.

Once it’s yours

  • Set the power to your licence limit. A 100 W set can usually be turned down.
  • Check it covers bands your licence allows.
  • If it’s a digital voice radio, replace any call sign the last owner stored with your own.
  • Check the antenna with an SWR meter before you transmit for long.
Choosing a radio and power limits →Coax and SWR →
Sources: RSGB and 3 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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