Is the Tension Between Hams and CBers Just a Myth?

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For decades, a supposed rivalry has existed between amateur radio operators (hams) and CB (citizens band) radio users. Stories circulate about hams looking down on CBers, while CBers view hams as elitist rule-followers. But is this tension real, or is it largely a myth perpetuated by outdated stereotypes?

The Origins of the Divide

The tension between hams and CBers likely stems from the history and structure of each service.

Amateur radio requires a license, technical knowledge, and adherence to regulations. Operators can use a variety of frequency bands, build their own equipment, and even communicate internationally.

CB radio, in contrast, was designed for ease of access—no license required, 40 channels in the 27 MHz band, and a simple plug-and-play system. It became especially popular in the 1970s among truckers and hobbyists.

Many hams see CB as a more chaotic, unregulated environment filled with overpowered transmitters, illegal amplifiers, and informal communication styles. Meanwhile, CBers sometimes feel that hams are overly rigid, dismissive of CB radio, and too focused on rules and regulations.

A Shift in Perception

Over the years, the landscape of radio communication has changed. The once-stark divisions have softened for several reasons:

Crossover Operators – Many hams started out on CB before getting licensed, and some licensed hams still use CB for local communication.

Common Interests – Both groups share a love of radio, DXing (long-distance communication), and experimenting with antennas.

Emergency Communication – Both hams and CBers have provided crucial assistance during disasters, proving the value of both services.

Despite this, some old attitudes remain, especially among those who have been in the hobby for decades. But among newer generations of operators, there seems to be far less of the rivalry that was once common.

CB Today: A Changing Hobby

CB radio has seen a resurgence due to new FM capabilities in some regions, and a growing appreciation for off-grid communication. Prepper communities, off-roaders, and truckers still rely on CB, and some radio enthusiasts are embracing both CB and amateur radio as complementary tools rather than competing factions.

At the same time, amateur radio is evolving, incorporating digital modes and new technologies. Some hams have realized that CB isn’t the “lawless wasteland” they once thought, and CBers are seeing that hams aren’t just rule-obsessed regulators.

Conclusion: Myth or Reality?

The idea of a deep-seated rivalry between hams and CBers is largely a myth today. While differences exist, they are more about regulatory structure and tradition than outright animosity. The overlap in interests, combined with the realities of modern communication, has blurred the lines between these two groups.

Instead of rivalry, there’s an opportunity for mutual respect—CBers appreciating the technical depth of ham radio, and hams recognizing CB as a practical and fun communication tool. At the end of the day, both hobbies are about connecting people through the airwaves, and that’s what really matters.