Subj : Re: Learn, Amateurs Learn!
To   : Randall Schad
From : Sean Dennis
Date : Tue Nov 04 2025 13:31:35

-=> Randall Schad wrote to Sean Dennis <=-

 RS> Based on some of the questions and comments I hear, there are a couple
 RS> "Extra" class operators near me that I am thoroughly convinced never
 RS> came close to even smelling a passing score on their exams. (Not
 RS> knowing what the legal power limit is, or asking questions about
 RS> re-broadcasting commercial content, ad nauseam.)

I've dealt with those also.  The Extras I know here are pretty seasoned
except for a few new ones we have in my club that did the "three steps
in one day:" route who are still getting experience.

 RS> I'm like you, though: antennas! I have one lone commercially made
 RS> antenna, and that's the 2m whip on my truck. Every other antenna in my
 RS> arsenal is made by hand with common materials, and I absolutely love
 RS> the process.

Glad to meet another antenne fan (or would that be "fan antenna"?).
Right now, my living situation does not allow wire antennas but I have a
40-foot long aluminum access ramp for my mobility scooter I use to mount
antennas.

I am saving up to buy a Comet CHA-250HD "vertically-oriented dipole" HF
antenna.  It uses a big coil to eliminate the need for radials.  It's
$479--not cheap when you're on Social Security--but well worth it to get
on HF easily.

https://www.cometantenna.com/product/comet_cha_250hd/

-- Sean KS4TD

.... I ordered a chicken and an egg from Amazon. I'll let you know.
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 * Origin: Outpost BBS * Johnson City, TN (1:18/200)

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