Hi Steve

Keep in mind that there are many many facets to amateur radio, not all
needing large or even effective antennas. You mentioned handhelds. Some
people use these through very simple directive antennas for satellite
access. If you are into keyboarding, PSK31 around the world a simple
antenna on 20m and 10-20W will do it. You can disguise it, tune a rain
gutter or even make a loaded device only a few feet long.

Don't be afraid either, to go for a drive out into the country and setup
on top of a hill.

Go into the hobby wherever it interests you. Just moderate your antenna
size/shape/location accordingly.

Cheers Bob W5/VK2YQA

Steve wrote:

I've been a SWLer for years and am considering getting a ham license.
However, I live in an urban area (Brooklyn) and wonder just how
effectively I can transmit from here. Big outdoor antennas and ground
radials are out of the question.

Obviously I'd be starting out on VHF and UHF frequencies, perhaps with
only a modest handheld transceiver. Handhelds look pretty puny, but is
this appearance deceptive? Would one allow me to talk to lots of
people and learn from them?

Any insights you can share will be greatly appreciated.

Steve