ARRL January VHF Contest

[N1API]

A Kenwood TS-2000 would get us on 3 of the 4 bands (6M, 2M, and 440). I know several members own one, but not sure if they'd let us borrow it for the weekend

Joe

The toughest part of this is getting hy-gain, (not the company) antennas for the VHF abd UHF bands. You can do OK with a 4 element beam for 6 meters and 100 watts. The hard part is 2 meters and above. Your antenna needs to clear the buildings and get over the horizon. Biggest experts here on this in the club would be N1ZN who always does good and K1VDF who used to be be a big contester on 2 meters. FYI I'm 100 feet above sea level and my antenna for 2 and 440 is a dual band at about 65 feet. I do OK on 2 meters but average less than 50 contacts depending on band conditions. My 440 signal sucks to say the least and I'm lucky if I can make 5 contacts. I do better on 6 meters with the StepIR which is four elements but with only 60 watts average I'm usually at the bottom of the pile if there is an opening, but straight shot in New England I'm always surprised that I can work NH, VT and ME better than on 10 meters.

Here's a suggestion maybe look for a Mult-Multi contest station that is looking for operators and see if they are willing to take some "newbes" in the effort.