[TenTec] Tentec Scout/ "Anything Positive", a bit more

[Larry Kayser]

Wow!  This has been a wonderful thread!  I like the plug in modules, they
are much better than paying for a switching system I would rarely use.

I am looking at selling my Scout only for one reason, to replace it with a
Pegasus.  If you have any form of above average internal resistance in the
battery or the associated wiring the radio jumps around a bit - it did the
same when I was using a Command set driving a pair of 813's in the trunk 30+
years ago!

I wish the VFO was digital or that we could have an after market
modification.  My fingers have trouble with the dial, but it is my problem
really nothing to do with the Scout.

>From my mobile I have worked all over the world with the lil rig, enjoyed
many hours of commuting and travelling - just wish I had of had the rig many
years ago.

Is there anything to say positive about the rig?  There sure is.  The manual
is not a half inch thick.  There is not a separate service manual for $50.
It does not have any internal menus.  It does not have PBT or other
"entertainment stuff".  It does not weigh 25 lbs.  It costs $495 US$.  My
wife used to think (before she got her ham ticket) that it was another FM
rig.  If someone steals it from my car you know they aren't going to get
much for it on the CB market, maybe (see below).  It has started more
interesting conversations with people who happen to see or hear it than any
other radio I have ever had.  It has provided countless hours of
entertainment.  I enjoy the portability - when working at my Island qth I
have set it on a stump with a little battery while working and been
entertained for hours.  I can, and once had to, send it to TenTec to get it
fixed, and my problem was fixed.  I have chances to work Jack, W4SON/M from
time to time which is a joy to work Scout to Scout.   If I had to have only
one rig for the rest of my days, letting go of everything else, I would keep
the Scout - it is the rig with the least things to go wrong and offers the
best amount of "bang" for a "buck".

What are a few bad things about a Scout?  Well I saw a "modified" 10 meter
module the other day - it was for sale in a truck stop.  I occasionally
forget to take the extra whips and modules I might like to use with me.  I
have forgotten to take the paddle once or twice.  It has some extra things
on the front panel such as a microphone connector etc.  Serious stuff you
know.

There is an old adage one of my staff used to remind me of from time to
time.  "A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still".
There will always be a group who are against anything, even Mom's apple pie!
I am having fun, I hope you are as well.

Larry
VA3LK




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