[Elecraft] I'll be joining you soon!

[Craig D. Smith]

After 18 years of inactivity and a lapsed license, I've joined the ranks of
hamdom again.  Took elements 2, 3 and 4 on Saturday and now am waiting for
my new (and much longer) call from the FCC. 

I started exploring what's new in amateur radio a couple months ago, and my
most exciting discovery was Elecraft and the enthusiasm and support of this
Email list.  I like the product designs and the prospect of building and
servicing my own equipment like we did "back in the day".  I wasn't sure if
that was still a practical possibility, but with Elecraft it certainly is. 
Without Elecraft, I probably wouldn't have taken the plunge again.

Just treated myself to a new Weller WESD51 soldering station with all the
trimmings - decided that my 1966 soldering iron wasn't going to be optimal
anymore ;>)    By the way, for purchasing such things as soldering and
rework equipment, hand tools for electronics, and all of the kit
construction supplies you can imagine, I can highly recommend HMC
Electronics in MA.  www.hmcelectronics.com (www.hmcelectronics.com)
Reasonable prices, great service and free shipping.  I believe they still
have a special 20% off sale on the major Weller stuff.  

The K-2 goes on order right after Xmas. 

I'm looking forward to a fun construction project, the challenge of working
QRP CW with extreme antenna restrictions from my HOA, and eventually a KX-1
for those hiking trips next summer.

See you soon
                   . Craig

Craig D. Smith
Longmont, CO