The Gun Counter

The main reasons I got my Extra were:

I was on a roll with CW after passing my General and figured I didn't want to have to start over to build my speed back up in the future (and then they dropped the code speed to 5WPM, and then dropped it altogether)

I can use any ham radio frequency and not worry about whether it's covered by my operating privileges'.

I can administer any level of exam as a VE (assuming I ever get back into that and recertify. it been a few years since any of the local clubs needed me)

I'll never have to take another ham radio exam again

We need a thumbs up emoji.

The local VE coordinator did mention the General and Extra tests. If they have time, I definitely will take them. I like the idea of not stepping into the wrong frequency and causing problems.

The more I read about APRS, the more I like it. Being able to text people from my HT is a great bonus if I'm out of cell range. It might also make a good "Hey come find me" button if I get into trouble while fishing or on the road.

I like the "personal best" competitive nature of DXing as well. That's one of the reasons I'm also interested in CW. All in all, it reminds me of pushing oneself to be better in IPSC and IDPA matches.

I guess there really was a reason why we collected all of those metal coffee cans at work over the years: I needed a supply of antenna reflectors.

I think if you go that far with it, it's the law that you have to drive a junky mini truck with 7 antennas, a camper shell and/or ladder rack, and a license plate with your call sign on it.

Well, I'm a rebel, I drive a 15 year old Trailblazer in good shape, with only 3 antennas a callsign plate

Netpackrat wrote: ↑Sat May 22, 2021 9:29 am I think if you go that far with it, it's the law that you have to drive a junky mini truck with 7 antennas, a camper shell and/or ladder rack, and a license plate with your call sign on it.

No, I'll do what one of the hams in my shop did when I was in the Air Force. I'll convert a white and habitually unwashed Jeep Eagle with six antennas and a sketchy New Mexico plate.

Well, I passed. I took the Technician and General tests today and passed both very nicely. I haven't studied much of the Extra material, so I didn't want to waste anyone's time by taking that test today.

Now I get to wait to be put on a list somewhere...

Whoo Hoo! Congratulations.

FB (Fine Business)

73

I wasn't completely nervous about the test, but I did build a 2m antenna out of a coffee can on Thursday while waiting to take it. Now I just need to find a place to hang it. My back yard is a no go due to the utility lines overhead from power, phone and cable. So I'll try running it around the front and sides of the house before I add any permanent mounts.

I'd be interested in seeing the plans for the coffee can antenna.