Q: Just wanted to know some things. Are police scanners illegal and if so, why would stores like Radio Shack sell them? I think it's only illegal if you try and interfere with it? If not, I'm just looking for one to listen in on what's going on in around my neighborhood out of curiosity. Heard that a programmable scanner work and also that they have been encrypting signals now so is it even worth it? Any good scanners out there?
A: They are legal, some states have restrictions on mobile use though. most will not use encryption because of the cost and interoperatability, just some special services, homeland security, detectives, but not a lot Radio Shack and bearcat are both good, Radio Shacks are made by Uniden (Bearcat) or GRE http://www.greamerica.com/ If your area uses the new APCO25 digital systems be prepared to spend $500-600 for a digital scanner See the link below to see whats around you, click your state and county http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/