[TenTec] hamfest and new-ham rigs

[Peg Haese]

I was wondering when the subject of $500 new rigs would evolve to good used rigs and now it has. New hams don't really need new rigs, there are lots of decent entry-level used ones available. Sort of like getting a wonderful dog or cat at the shelter instead of buying a puppy or kitten. And don't most young drivers get a used car for their first one?

Word-of-mouth is the best way to find a used rig, or on-air local swapmeets. You just have to buy from someone reputable. If you are new and don't know who to trust about used local gear, start networking! The rig that was top-of-the-line 20 years ago may still be a good rig. Just don't get an older Omni if you like 17 meters (been there, done that, didn't get a warning).

I sold my nice Delta II to a co-worker who upgraded. I replaced it with a used original-owner Yaesu FT-890AT for $375 after seeing it at a hamfest. The seller is trustworthy. It's smaller, just as easy to use, has an internal tuner, yada yada yada. No, it's not a TT but TT doesn't have anything comparable for mobile or vacation DXing. 

My Scout was a nice first HF rig and has been good to loan out to people I trust not to abuse it. They get the mike when they pass 5 WPM.

My Omni V does NOT get loaned out. There are limits after all. The Jupiter was loaned out to the fellow who ended up buying the Delta. Now he is dreaming of an Omni VI+ someday, instead of a Yaecomwood.

Just my 3 cents worth.

Peg KB9LIE in SW Wisconsin

in response to:

> Any hamfest has bunches of under $500 rigs, Drakes TR-4/TR-7, FT-101EE, FT-100, Tentec Omni A/D/C, Kenwood 440, 520/530, etc. Case in point, I saw all of the above at the Richmond Frostfest on Sunday. I think all of them went home with the hams that had them for sale. It's hard to move HF equipment unless it's brand new and half price. JB, N4NQY