Steve Bonine wrote:
Michael Coslo wrote:

Getting on the air on a budget:

Go to a hamfest and pick up one of the older radios. There are
some deals to be had with old hybrid radios. Kenwood made some really
nice ones. There are some old Yaesu hybrids out there also. Of course,
if you get lucky, there are some deals on more modern ones also. I
picked up an Icom IC-745 for 250 dollars at a hamfest.

Your advice got me to thinking. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of buying ham gear at a hamfest, versus buying it on eBay
or via the various classified ads?

I've had two experiences on Ebay. One buying, and one selling. Both were
bad. When buying, the stuff wasn't as advertised, and under selling, the
buyer never showed up. Leaving bad feedback isn't much in compensation.

There's no doubt that going to a hamfest is fun. It's a place to meet
people, see equipment (both old and new), and generally have a rich
social and learning experience. There's likely to be some interesting
gear for sale, especially at the larger events. You can see what you're
buying, and you don't have to worry about shipping (or the seller just
taking your money and not sending the gear).

I simply love going to Hamfests. The socializing is fun. Lots of bad
food to eat too! Lots of interesting people to watch. If I had one
complaint, it is that Hamfests are similar to flea markets in that they
are starting earlier and earlier. Dayton is one exception, except for
Sunday morning.


But buying via eBay or classified ad has its advantages, too. You can
research the features of the rig, using things like the eHam reviews, to
be sure that it really meets your needs. If you're willing to wait,
there's a more complete selection of equipment, so if you're in the
market for something specific you're more likely to find it. You can
check recent sales to build an idea of a "fair price".

My XYL has a rule that I like. "On presently manufactured radios, if it
isn't 50 percent off new, buy new." On older stuff, if you can't see and
touch it, let someone else have it. Nothing like that warranty for me.

Collectors will have a different outlook, of course.

Your point about Eham is excellent, Steve. In fact, I would suggest
anyone who is interested in getting equipment should browse through
their reviews. I've spent more than a few entire evenings at their site.
I would note to the prospective buyers that they read the reviews in
addition to looking at overall ratings. There are some Hams out there
who never met a radio they didn't like! ;^) And a few who are really picky.


I'm a bit hesitant to suggest to a new ham that they go to a hamfest and
buy equipment. I'm afraid that the equipment-buying experience at a
hamfest is too intimidating to a new ham. It requires more knowledge of
what's what, and how to size up what's a good deal, than most new hams
possess. Now if they have a buddy to help them, that's different.

Yup, It's always good to have an Elmer with you until you learn the ropes.

The Hamfest also has one experience that I really love - even if some
don't - the discussion driving the sale. I just love that give and take
with the person selling the equipment. Unfortunately, some sellers don't
do this, but when I "lock horns" with a seller that knows how to deal,
we both have a great time.

Which gets us back to the point that several have made in this thread --
the importance of making contact with the local ham community.

And how!


- 73 de Mike KB3EIA -