One additional point about most Amateur rigs: they can easily be modified to work outside the amateur service bands. This will probably void your warranty, and transmission outside amateur bands is only permitted by the FCC in a true emergency (imminent threat to life or property). If needed, you can talk with FRS/GMRS/MURS/VHF Marine/ HF Marine, the list goes on. About the only ones you won't be able to contact are 1) anything on a 700/800/900 MHz digital or analog conventional or trunked system: most HAM gear just won't transmit on these bands, 2) anything on the Civilian or Military VHF/UHF Air band: again, most ham gear won't do AM at these frequencies.

In short, when TSHTF, anything goes.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. I am not recommending attempt any of these procedures.