[600MRG] WAS Emergency Traffic on 630m NOW: I dunno - general complaining about the state of MF and LF???

[Kenneth G. Gordon]

On 30 Nov 2021 at 23:07, William Cromwell wrote:

> Hi,
> 
> QMN, The Michigan Traffic Net has occasionally moved to 160 meters as 
> propagation dictated. QMN claims to be the oldest CW traffic net still 
> on the air. 18:30 and 22:00 Eastern time weeknights on 3563 kHz +/- QRM.
> 
> 73,
> 
> Bill  KU8H

I have tried for several years to get my CW net traffic-handling buddies to use 160 meters, 
and at one time had three of them, out of at least 50 hams, who did use it when 80 meters 
failed. 

When we did use it, in most cases, if we couldn't hear one another on 80, we were well over 
S-9 on 160 meters....not always, mind you, but very often.

Many of the others told me that the antenna issues were their main stumbling block.

I kept telling them that it wasn't all that hard. If they had an 80 meter antenna, then they also 
had an acceptable 160 meter one.....but most wouldn't even try.

I still mention it whenever I have the opportunity.

I still maintain that 600 meters would be ideal for EMCOMMS at particular times and 
conditions.

Ken W7EKB