Why Your SWR Meter Might Be Lying to You

Why Your SWR Meter Might Be Lying to You

Whether you’re new to amateur radio or have years of experience under your belt, the SWR meter is likely one of the first tools you learned to use. It’s a trusted piece of gear—used to measure the Standing Wave Ratio and determine how well your antenna is...
3D Printing Ham Gear: Useful Prints for Your Shack

3D Printing Ham Gear: Useful Prints for Your Shack

The amateur radio community has always embraced a DIY spirit, and now, with affordable 3D printers more accessible than ever, hams are finding new ways to build and customize their shacks. Whether you’re printing antenna mounts or cases for your gear, 3D...
Building Your Own Dummy Load on a Budget

Building Your Own Dummy Load on a Budget

Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or just getting your first rig up and running, a reliable dummy load is a must-have. It’s essential for testing and tuning your equipment without broadcasting on the air. But store-bought dummy loads can be...
Understanding Operating Etiquette on VHF and UHF

Understanding Operating Etiquette on VHF and UHF

When it comes to amateur radio, understanding operating etiquette is just as important as knowing how to use your equipment. Nowhere is this more apparent than on the VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands, where the majority of local...
Best Handheld Radios for Beginners in 2025

Best Handheld Radios for Beginners in 2025

If you’re new to amateur radio, one of the best ways to get started is with a handheld radio, often called an HT (handie-talkie). These compact, portable transceivers are ideal for local communications, emergency preparedness, and getting a feel for ham radio...

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