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The Yaesu FTX-1: The Complete Guide
Every FTX-1 post on QSO Journey in one place: the overview, setup guides, field ops, digital modes, operating skills, and maintenance.
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Packing an FTX-1 Go-Bag: What I Actually Carry
My grab-and-go FTX-1 bag, built for showing up ready whether that’s an EmComm callout or a last-minute activation.
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What’s Wrong With Amateur Radio Clubs in 2026
Amateur radio sits at the intersection of electronics, software, emergency communications, and pure experimentation. So why do so many local clubs feel like they’re actively working to drive newcomers away?
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Weekly Nets Are Stuck in the Past, and They’re Not Preparing Anyone for SHTF
Most weekly nets have become a comfortable check-in ritual that teaches nothing and tests nothing. Here’s why that’s a problem for preparedness-minded hams.
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Why Two Is One and One Is None: Building Redundancy Into a Family Radio Kit
Every layer of your comms plan needs a backup, not just the plan as a whole. Here’s where people actually cut this corner.
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Pairing the IC-7300 Mark II with an External Tuner for Non-Resonant Antennas
When the built-in tuner isn’t enough, and how I pair the IC-7300 Mark II with an external tuner for antennas well outside its matching range.
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GMRS Repeaters, and How They’re Different From Ham Repeaters
GMRS is not just a walkie talkie service anymore. A growing network of repeaters gives it real range, with a much simpler entry process than amateur radio.
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A Comms Plan for Family Spread Across Different Cities
GMRS and ham simplex both run out of range fast. Here’s how a family spread across cities actually stays connected.
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What Is PSK Reporter?
PSK Reporter is a free website that shows you, on a live map, exactly where your signal is being heard around the world. Here is how it works.
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Repeater Offsets and Duplex, Explained Simply
Part of our Getting On The Air: Modes, Operations, and Making Contacts guide. Offset and duplex are two of the settings that confuse new hams the most when programming a radio for the first time, mostly because the terminology is used loosely and the concepts get blurred together. They are actually simple once you separate…