The Elecraft KX3 is the rig we take on our back country bushwalking and XC ski trips. It covers all the HF bands plus 6 metres and has a built in tuner. It is light weight and rugged, with impressive signal processing features. On the lithium ion batteries we now use, it puts out nearly 10W. Inclusion of 2m and 70cm would be handy and perhaps these will be available as add-ons in the future.
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The FT817ND and T1 tuner are a good combination for QRP work out and about. The rig is getting a little dated now and its weight is a bit of an issue. It also only just puts out 5W and has no DSP. Inclusion of 2m & 70cm is useful and it remains a very good portable option.
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2m antenna strapped to pack
We use a full size 80m dipole made of hook up wire for HF- matching for other HF bands is pretty easy with a tuner. A mini choke balun and mini-coax feed the antenna. The whole system gets very icy in blizzards, but performance seems little affected.
A variety of hand-helds are used, but mainly VX-8R radios (which are very good for APRS also). For VHF and UHF, we use a home-brew vertical, which is strapped to the rucksack.
Power is from lithium ion batteries charged from flexible solar panels. Weighty SLA batteries are a thing of the past now that lightweight lithium technology is cheaper and more reliable.
A variety of hand-helds are used, but mainly VX-8R radios (which are very good for APRS also). For VHF and UHF, we use a home-brew vertical, which is strapped to the rucksack.
Power is from lithium ion batteries charged from flexible solar panels. Weighty SLA batteries are a thing of the past now that lightweight lithium technology is cheaper and more reliable.
Snow camping with wall for wind-protection
Familiarity with all pieces of equipment is important so that they can be effectively operated and maintained in the field.
Take a look at the slide show to see a range of photos which include images of the radio gear, hiking equipment and landscapes.
