Topband: Working Europe

[James Rodenkirch]

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