[Elecraft] K1 on the AT in PA on Saturday

[Mike Morrow]

Ron Polityka wrote:

>  Now that I am defrosted and I had my dinner, I can share a short story
> about my AT trip in PA today...

Thanks, Ron, for an interesting report.  And using a K1 too!  I was
beginning to think that the only Elecraft rig that could be used now when
outdoors or backpacking was a KX1 : - ) .  I noticed that you listed no 15
meter operation.  I've been pleased with how much 15m activity I've heard
recently during weekends on my K1, though I didn't listen today to see if it
was open.

> I was using a 2.3 Ah sealed lead acid battery which was at 12.7 VDC
> at the beginning of the operation and an hour and half later was
> down to only 12.2 VDC.

I like to use a 10-AA cell holder with 2100 mA-hr  AA NiMH cells.  It's
smaller and lighter than a 2.3 A-hr SLA battery, and the full charge voltage
approaches 14 vdc.  I also like using a 4.5 A-hr SLA battery when I need
endurance.

>  Over all I had a Great time. I guess you must think I am a little Crazy.

Sounds like fun.

> This trip was my 47 consecutive trip out since March 2000. I have
> been out on the Appalachian Trail at least once a month for the past 47
> months. I have 350 QSO's from the Appalachian Trail.

Down here in the Southeast, the AT is often overused, and mostly not all
that scenic unless one diverts off the main trail.

If you're ever looking for some stunningly beautiful trails without having
to head all the way out to the Rockies, the Buffalo National River
wilderness trails in northern Arkansas are very highly recommended.

73,
Mike / KK5F