Most Operators don’t get this radio: Lab599 TX-500MP
Most operators don’t understand the point of the Lab599 TX-500MP. It wasn’t designed with all the bells and whistles found in most portable ham radio […]
emergency communications
Cross-training: Communications, Fieldcraft, and Marksmanship
Cross-training builds real resilience. This weekend combined HF communications, fieldcraft, and marksmanship in the swamps of Puolanka, Finland—proving that preparedness isn’t theory, it’s practice.
The DJI Drone Ban: What They’re Not Saying Out Loud
The U.S. calls DJI a security risk, yet no allies have banned their drones. Lawmakers funded by defense interests push the ban while U.S. and Israeli firms stand to profit. This isn’t about safety—it’s about politics, money, and who controls the drone market.
Field Testing the Chameleon MPAS 2.0 on Hailuoto Island
Field testing the Chameleon MPAS 2.0 portable HF antenna from Hailuoto Island KP24iX during a POTA/WWFF activation using SSB and FT8.
IC-7300MK2: Why a 0.7 A Receive Draw Actually Matters Off-Grid
I just pre-ordered the new Icom IC-7300MK2. Its reduced current draw finally makes this legendary HF rig off-grid friendly!
Data modes with the Ultimate Field Radio: Lab599 TX-500MP
By now most of us would agree that the Lab599 TX-500MP is the Ultimate rugged field radio. In this blog/video, I’ll show you my very first Winlink session using this preparedness-minded HF Radio.
When QRP Is Not Enough
QRP is the heart of my field communications strategy—but sometimes, it just isn’t enough. In this post, I walk through a real-world Winlink session that failed when conditions didn’t cooperate. When communication really matters, what do you do next?
Off-Grid Power For Emergency Communications (ebook and print)
Hello Operators, Off-Grid Power for Emergency Communications just received a major update—and it’s now a standalone book. Here’s what’s new: You’ll also notice a couple […]
Icom IC-705 | Still the Wireless Data King?
A field-proven look at wireless data communications using the Icom IC-705 and Microsoft Surface Go—now revisited in light of the newly released Yaesu FTX-1. Compare features, and true cable-free operation for modern ham radio in the field.
Emergency Winlink Gateway
A field-tested look at the Emergency Winlink Gateway—an off-grid, low-power HF email system built for rapid deployment during real-world disasters.