Thanks Tim...I guess these days I have more time to myself than most so I have to devise some sort of mischief....Topband is unique and is still full of mystery even to those of us who have been there for decades...It becomes a disease with no cure also....No doubt it would be a terrible experience losing big antennas and masts...I live on top of a very exposed hill here and between wind and lightning I am surprised we have never had any damage...I have no beams on my radio masts and probably a good thing as I am no longer allowed to climb...
Thanks Mac and Cor for the replies...I am 50 years behind modern technology and prefer to stick to my old ways....Proof is in the pudding when we get results...It's not the station with the biggest antenna or station power who wins every time, rather, good operating habits and knowing your stuff .....I am a staunch advocate of home brewing and in my mind, until one has experienced building some piece of equipment by hand and see it operate for the first time, then many are missing out on a great hobby...
Ahhhh...Rambling again....
Bob..VK3ZL..