I've been very happy with a combo generic-name SWR and Watts-out meter. It cost around 30 bucks as I recall, and with it I can tune the antenna and tell how many watts the radio and/or amp is/are outputting. It's certainly accurate enough for most folks who don't need to spend a few hundred $bucks on meters rated for heavy use by pros.
A simple $30-$40 swr/power meter can tell you a lot about your radio and antenna system. Not everyone is going to have a buddy sitting at the same truck stop that you are at. Plus a friend can't tell you if you have a radio or an antenna problem just by trying to talk to you. I guess I'm a visual type of person. I like to see what's happening by using some sort of test equipment. I believe anyone who is serious about radio, needs some sort of tool, even if it's a cheap tool like a truck stop meter.
Oh i agree you should have something if your serious..Its my gut that tells me its just a casual interest which is why i suggested a buddy down the road kinda deal.. If so then whats in the radio is fine and the buddy in the lot or down the street will do.. If op plans on goin deeper,look into some decient gear rite off the bad vs cheap now and better later,cause your spending $ twice.. An ohm meter will suffice at the start..
