Kevin: I wouldn't disagree with your rationale but...........let's emphasize
gettin' on top band first, improving rcv antenna(s) second.
- BOGs and Beveridges may be a non-starter if space constraints are in play
- DX engineering rcv antenna systems may be "out of reach" due to lack of
discretionary funds
+ if technical awareness is low, passing on tips to install a small loop will
work
+ simple rcv loop antenna can "help"and doesn't take up much space
+ there are several "160 meter antennas for a small lot" web sites that can be
"the hook" to give it a try
However....one size does not fit all.....I've been a QRP participant since 2012
and use my transmit antenna for receive - I've done quite well as far as
scoring and final "position" in many of the CQ and Stew Perry contests so I
maintain -- get 'em interested, get 'em on the air, worry about receive
antenna(s) later.
Appreciate your comments....
"fuggedabout "decent rx antennas"????
Jim, I think the two things are both necessary. We need to encourage then to
get on, but emphasize the need for RX antennas. Without them, 160 is a hard
sell. I have a buddy that has a perfectly viable TX antenna (better than mine,
LOL) who never gets on 160 meters because when he does he never hears anything
interesting. I have so far not been able to convince him that RX antennas
aren't optional, but a necessary part of 160 meter operating. I would
have ended up the same way as my friend did before I put up my K9AY, I suspect,
but fortunately my 160 meter type friends convinced me to give it a try.
Hopefully, I will get him over one winter night and show him what even a simple
160 m RX antenna can do.
Same thing with QRP. I've heard of many new hams whose "buddies" sold them on
QRP only to drop out when the call/QSO ratio was dismal. Better to start with a
100w rig and "graduate" to QRP once they have some success and come to
understand propagation, etc. I think the s ame concept applies on 160,
why start them out with a situation that would frustrate even veteran 160 meter
ops?
73, Kevin K3OX
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