[Elecraft] OT: FS Bird 6250 VHF/UHF Milliwatt Meter (vintage 1956)

[Jim Sheldon]

I have a WORKING Bird model 6250 VHF/UHF milliwatt meter from way back in 1956.  This little baby has a range of 0-250 milliwatts from 30 to 500 MHz and has a built in dummy load.  It will indicate RF down to much lower frequencies than 30 MHz but I'm sure the meter reading won't be accurate much below 30 and I have no idea when this thing was last calibrated.
 
I actually have a PDF copy of the original Operation and Maintenance manual.  Of course, the spares and cables are no longer with it and the glass meter cover is cracked, but still intact.  There is no debris inside the meter that I can see and it functions properly.  Cosmetically it's about a 4 or 5 out of 10 as it has been well used.
 
To make sure it worked, I tested it with my Elecraft KX3 QRP rig.  I set the KX3 to .2 watts out at 54 MHz and output a steady CW carrier into the 6250.  Much to my surprise, the meter indicated 200 milliwatts right on the nose. At 30 MHz it read slightly less.  The only thing garnered from this test is that the meter works and the KX3's internal power output setting closely matches the meter.  How well either is calibrated is anyone's guess - LOL.  
 
Asking $85 plus shipping for it or $85 face to face in the Wichita, KS area.  I'll be listing it on the 4 State QRP  reflector as well.  According to the data plate on the front panel it weighs 2.5 pounds and if I ship it, I will securely cocoon it in bubble wrap and if I can find some nesting boxes, I'll double box it as well.  That will probably add another pound so figure on 4 pounds from 67219 if you want it.
 
Please email off list if you're interested and I have a number of high resolution pictures I can send if anyone wants.
 
Jim Sheldon - W0EB