eatliesndie wrote:
G'day MEL, funny you should mention ham radio. I've been thinking about getting one...
Why?
...is my question.
They are indeed a wonderful tool in an emergency situation.
But not many people got 'em.
IME, most hams are older than dirt... with all the baggage.
(Sry guys... I know it, and you do too.)
They are among the most helpful people out there.
And ALWAYS willing to help young people interested in radio!!!
Because young people, ARE NOT.
They are happy with a cell phone, which may go down in a crisis, of any kind!
So, .. Why??
90%+ of ham QSO's are signal report, WX conditions, and perhaps some discussion of the radio gear used... rig, antenna, amplifier, etc. That's it. Bye-bye.
Is that what you would like to spend a serious chunk of money on?
The knowledge and skills you will learn in ham radio are unique, and I would never discourage anyone if learning is their intent.
Spend a serious amount of time with hams in your area before making a decision.
..What bands are effective in your area for skip, if that's what you wish to do... and which countries come in, at your location??? Could be speaking some foreign language. ...and they will know just enough of your language so they may log a QST with your station! lol
Good luck
rc
Yes, I've got a pile of radio gear bought at 50cents on the dollar and I doubt I could get 20cents for it today.