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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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The Reality of Off-Grid Mesh Comms: Meshtastic, LoRa, and Why the Hype Outpaces Reality
Meshtastic and LoRa mesh networks get hyped online as an unbreakable off-grid comms solution. Here’s an honest, technical look at where the hype outpaces the current reality.
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Why an End-Fed Half-Wave Antenna Benefits From a Counterpoise
End-fed half-wave antennas are famously simple, but that little counterpoise wire is doing more than you might think. Here is why it helps.
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Antennas, Bands, and Radios the Military Actually Uses (and Why)
Military communications planning faces the same physics hams do, just with different priorities. Here is a look at the bands, antennas, and radios that show up again and again in tactical use.
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HT Battery Types: OEM Packs, Eneloops, and What Actually Lasts
Part of our Handheld Radios (HTs) guide. The battery that came with your handheld isn’t necessarily the best long-term option, and the choice between OEM packs, AA cases, and rechargeable cells matters more over a few years of ownership than it seems like it should on day one. OEM Li-ion packs: best capacity, worst longevity…
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Renewing Your Ham Radio License: What to Know Before It Expires
Amateur radio licenses run for ten years, which is plenty of time to completely forget the renewal process exists. Here is what to know before yours runs out.
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Coax Connectors Explained: SO-239, BNC, SMA, and N-Type
Choosing coax is only half the equation. The connector on each end matters just as much, and mixing up the wrong one for the job causes more problems than the cable itself usually does.