We have talked with two different two way radio service/retail companies recently.  Both of them tell us that if we have our own system, the range of them will only be 3-4 miles and that in order to get larger coverage we need to pay a monthy fee to be on their repeater/internet network.  In talking with a few other farmers, they say they can reach between 15 and 20 miles without a repeater service.  To be on their service, it costs $30/month and the radio is provided.  All repairs are taken care of and after two years the radios can be upgraded if we so desire.  
Wondering what range you all are getting with your systems and what kind of radio lifespan you have seen with your systems and how reliable they are throughout their life.  I'm thinking that simply having our own system may be the better route to go for us if we can in fact get the 15-20 mile range.  Your thoughts???