Hi, When I first joined this list I mentioned having read articles by hams who worked 160 with mobile radios with 10 to 50 watts output to *mobile* antennas. They were not working the antipodes every day but they *were* making mobile QSOs. I have a big chunk of wire that apparently favors the general direction West. I have a small lot (100 X 100 feet) so I my big hunk or wire (180 feet) is not straight. However...it is far superior to a mobile antenna! Even with the present limitations I can still work other stations. Sometimes stations that are a long way off to the west.
Just like all the other bands, I'll listen to 160 from time to time to see what might available. There are always surprises on the air. I already know I am more likely to hear more stations farther away at night, winter, etc. If I think there is any chance at all of even a more local QSO I will put out a call. Almost all of my old gear has failing caps and some out of spec resistors. I have another batch of ordered and there will be another round of improvement. I think I'll soon have my Johnson Ranger and my DX-100 back on the air. Both have 160 and I'll be playing in the Top Band sandbox again. Stew Perry again? Sweet. 73, Bill KU8H _______________________________________________ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK