[Boatanchors] HT-20 and Clipperton DXpedition

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On Mon, Jun 21, 2010 at 12:31 PM, Carl <km1h at jeremy.mv.com> wrote:

> Truthfully Im still amazed it was even there. Im not one to miss my beauty
> rest and a leisurely breakfast before heading out for the bit over 1hr drive
> on 2 lane back roads. It was 11AM by the time I got inside after spending a
> long eyeball QSO at the gate with Bob, W1NH, a neighbor when I lived in
> Raymond in the late 60's. Considering the higher asking prices for other 32V
> and 75A stuff there that was junk by comparison.

That $500 32V over on the far end of the field grounds that looks like
it was hauled out of a barn somewhere has been there for several years
for the same price. Guess he just likes it a lot. :D

Part of the reason your steal was still there when you arrived is
(IMO) due to the fact that *so much* good stuff shows up at that event
every time. Folks have become a bit more patient, choosing to look
around a bit first for fear of missing out, before committing to a big
purchase. Like Dayton or anywhere else though - if you see it and want
it, you'd best grab it. Chances are it won't be there when you return
even a half hour later.

> Remember the $50 SX-28 from 2008?

Sure do. I think it might've come from the same guy I got my $100
NC-101X from, over near the AM Corral? The 101 was an early black
wrinkle model with the green tuning eye. It went to my first Richmond
VA fest and now resides with W3JN.

> Its impossible to go to Nearfest without coming home with goodies. Thats why
> you guys make the long trek up.

Well, yeah, there's that. And I have to "work" it, being one of the
team (I do use the term 'work' loosely, it's hard to call such fun a
chore). But it sure does draw out the good stuff. Johnny hauls up some
interesting stuff when he's in town, like that Kahn SSB converter and
a number of very esoteric receivers I've never seen, much less heard
of. Denny was selling that TMC stuff for a widow, we chatted about it
Thursday in Concord at the AM BBQ. I'm glad I didn't bring much money
with me. I doubt HUZ would've appreciated having his vehicle entirely
filled with my junk either. He's all too understanding about the junk
I already haul back.

I do think Jack's HT-20 is the first to show up at that event though,
which would explain the interest and crowds. And of all the good gear
that shows up, be it Hallicrafters, Collins, or whatever else, the
area of most density is always the AM Corral and around the corner to
Dale and the milsurplus guys (the aisle where you made your great
deal).

~ Todd,  KA1KAQ/4