[Elecraft] Best band for low cost DXing?

[Joe Hetrick]

On Sep 28, 2007, at 9:38 AM, JT Croteau wrote:

> I too would like to know why 20M wasn't considered by the OP.  20M is
> a great, easy, and cheap band to get on and make lots of DX contacts
> especially during a contest weekend. A simple halfwave dipole can be
> constructed for a very low cost, sometimes free if you scrounge, and
> work well at 30 to 35'. Most people frown upon contests every weekend
> but get on the air during a contest and you'll have DXCC in no time
> flat.

The only reason I can think of why 20 would be difficult would be  
operating times.  Eg; my personal schedule is such that I'm  
frequently operating well after folks have moved off 20 or 20 has  
closed.

I agree with N1ESE, though, if I could have one antenna, it'd be on  
20, assuming I had lost my job or retired ;).  The only beam I've got  
is a moxon rectangle for 20m, because it's active; the rectangle was  
easy to construct, and I can get it in the air myself for contest  
weekends.

Because of my own operating schedule, I find myself on 30 or 40M most  
evenings; thats just the way it works out.

My 20m work is mostly via a half-square.  Easily constructed, and  
effective DX antenna for 20.  40 I operate with a fiberglass pole- 
supported 1/4wl vertical.  The pattern gets a bit useless for 15m,  
but, tuned I operate most bands with this antenna.  A plan is to  
shorten it and build a base mounted matching system.  Being shorter  
should help with the 15m pattern.

One could argue bang for your buck being a tuner and an effective low- 
angle radiating antenna.

Joe, KC0VKN

>
> -- 
> JT Croteau, N1ESE - Manchester, NH (FN42gx)
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