If you want to nerd out on range and such, consider HAM. I know it’s a higher bar with the test, but it can be fun to participate in the local repeaters during a commute. I stumbled on a group that preps for disasters doing their weekly check in recently (which of course you can listen to without a license). There were people from almost the whole state on it!I made the switch a few months ago. Ditched the CB and Firestick for a Midland MXT-275 and their 6db gain antenna. Bought the license and mounted the antenna on the tail light mount. Not an ideal location, but I didn't want it on the hood or cowl. I also picked up a Browning BR-450 antenna just to see if I could get a better SWR. The Midland antenna gave me the best SWR out of the two, so I'll be bringing the spare Browning antenna as a spare. I also got the SW-33 meter to tune them. Best I can get with the antenna where it is is 1.43:1. It's a compromise, but good enough. We have several repeaters in my area and am amazed at the range I can reach with them. You can go to mygmrs.com to get a map of available repeaters. Some you need to get permission from the owner to use them, or get the appropriate PL tones. I also picked up a HT from Radioddity for $39. It's 5 watts and pretty simple to use, and it's part 95E compliant for GMRS, unlike the evil UV-5R, lol!
To answer the question about antenna tuning, you can tune them for a better SWR, but you don't need to take much off. Most you only need to snip a half inch or so shorter. Do it in very small increments with wire cutters, or a saw. Go too short and you throw it away.
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But I’m happy with GMRS for wheeling groups, ham is just fun to dip toes in (but doesn’t solve any problems for me until the nanobots are activated).