"gareth" wrote in message ...

It is a truism that short antennae are poor inefficient radiators, and no
amount of infantile bluster by Americanoramuses will change that.

The truth does not need the violence of abuse to force its way down
people's throats.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++

While this is quite true, such antennae do function. I routinely have QSOs
exceeding 1000 miles (1600 km.) with small whip antennae standing less than
8 feet above a simple ground plane consisting of only two tuned radials.
This arrangement is hardly ideal from the standpoint of establishing a
station at home or some other permanent place. However, it does represent
the ability get on the air and make contacts with only a car battery and
five minutes' time for setup.

I'm no magician or miracle worker. I do tend to say, "Let's see what
happens if ... [fill in the blank]" and sometimes I'm surprised and
delighted with the result.

Best wishes,
"Sal"
(really KD6VKW)