[Antennas] How can I tell if my signal is getting out?

[W3HKK@aol.com]

IF both antennas are in free space; IF the other fellow is running the same 
power, AND (not insignificantly) disregarding other loss differences ( 
difference in coax losses, and   MAJOR  losses being so close to the 
ground/other objects).  

Look at the sample radiation patterns in antenna books for the same antenna 
close to ground vs  higher up.= which show much less RF  radiated as  ground 
losses rise due to  proximity to ground ( inverse square law.)  

Thus its not the antenna...its the location ( ie proximity to ground and  
other objects)