This is a "must-have" thread, with a twist:

Must NOT have.

What should the amateur/CB/SWL/scanner community at large stay away from, unless the equipment in question is acquired for novelty's sake? A mis-adjusted example of an otherwise good model doesn't count...I'm talking about serious FUBAR right out of the gate.

On my short list are Trac iambic keyer paddles, later-model RCI29xx transceivers and most Galaxy/Connex equipment. In my experience, they're a bit prone to drift and the receivers leave a lot to be desired in the selectivity department.

Yours?