Budget $13 Push To Talk Hack | Gear and Equipment Hacks for the Modern Rifleman

Published on April 19, 2026
Duration: 41:01

This guide details how to modify a budget $13 Push-to-Talk (PTT) unit for Baofang radios, which is commonly wired incorrectly for headset use. The process involves disassembling the PTT, desoldering and resoldering the red and green wires to reverse the audio input/output, and reassembling. This DIY fix ensures audio is correctly routed to the headset for reception and from the microphone for transmission, saving significant cost compared to professional units.

Quick Summary

You can fix a $13 Push-to-Talk (PTT) for Baofang radios that outputs audio through the microphone instead of the headset by swapping the red and green wires internally. This simple rewiring corrects the audio input/output configuration, ensuring proper headset reception and microphone transmission.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Gear Hacks Overview
  2. 01:54Rubber Band Gear Hacks
  3. 03:06DIY Counterweights for NVGs
  4. 04:26Upside-Down Grenade Pouch Hack
  5. 05:24TAG 67 Grenade Features
  6. 08:27Girth Hitching PTT to Plate Carrier
  7. 09:12PTT Placement: Non-Dominant Side
  8. 10:55Cable Management for PTT
  9. 11:13Antenna Routing & Signal Considerations
  10. 12:11Rewiring the $13 PTT
  11. 13:14Soldering the PTT Wires
  12. 16:16Reassembly & Testing the PTT
  13. 18:47Final PTT Test & Baofang Integration
  14. 19:59PTT Secure Point Hack
  15. 20:39ATAX Holder Review
  16. 21:49Princeton Ghost Light Review
  17. 22:37ESS Goggles Review
  18. 23:50DIY Counterweight Pouches
  19. 25:10Cumberbun Setup & Draw Side Slickness
  20. 26:09Plate Carrier Height Adjustment
  21. 28:04Plate Sizing & Multi-Curve Plates
  22. 28:36Plate Carrier Break-In Period
  23. 29:08Force-on-Force Training as Gear Testing
  24. 29:45Gear Setup Trade-offs
  25. 30:15Summer Combat Hoodie Recommendation
  26. 31:04Encouraging Word: Acts 8:26

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I fix a cheap Push-to-Talk (PTT) for my Baofang radio that's not routing audio correctly?

Many budget PTT units, like the $13 Amazon ones, are wired backwards. You can fix this by disassembling the PTT, desoldering the red and green wires, and resoldering them to the opposite connections. This ensures audio goes to your headset and not the microphone.

What is the main problem with inexpensive PTT units for radios like Baofang?

The primary issue with inexpensive PTT units is incorrect internal wiring. This causes received audio to play through the PTT's microphone instead of the connected headset, making communication difficult and often resulting in static through the headset.

Is it difficult to rewire a $13 PTT for a Baofang radio?

Rewiring a $13 PTT is a relatively straightforward modification. It involves disassembling the unit, swapping two specific wires (red and green), and reassembling. While soldering is required, it's a simple process that can significantly improve your radio communications.

What tools are needed to rewire a budget PTT for a Baofang radio?

To rewire a budget PTT, you'll need basic tools including a small Phillips head screwdriver for disassembly, a soldering iron, and solder. It's also advisable to have wire strippers and pliers on hand, though not always strictly necessary for this specific modification.

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