I run a DX94 Galaxy in my construction truck. Our company uses VHF radio but we don't clog it up with directions. The Galaxy comes in handy when I can hit all the trucks on the job with directions from 20 miles away. When they try to talk back they can't get above all the DX I am getting. Yeah I am actually hearing Europe with a simple Predator.
Will be taking the General test soon. Not sure how far into the hobby I will get. Friends Yaesu was damn expensive.
There are metric/imperial TONS of ham rigs on ebay.com that aqre used--and reasonable. Brand new state of the art rigs can be $3,000 to $10,000 each--not including accessories. On ebay a decent used rig can be had for $100 to $400. 100 watts and a decent antenna (made of wire--cheap) can garner you world wide contacts. Either message me or go to arrl.org and look for ham clubs in your area. Most hams are helpful, cordial, and will go above and beyond to help you beyond belief. We are a service of people and will you run into jackwagons sometimes? Yes. The best part is that there are 5,000,000 other frequencies to use.
As a licensed ham can you communicate on 60+ computer modes, Slow Scan Television, Fast Scan Television, talk to space shuttles, satallites, AM, FM, Side Band (LSB USB) as well as teletype.
When you have a 30 minute chat with someone who turns out to be your relative from "the old counntry" what little studying is well worth it.
