Amateur Radio Equipment - Where to get it?

Amateur radio equipment is often tough to get your hands on. But don't dispair I hope to help you in the next few paragraphs to know how to get good amateur radio equipment at reasonable prices.

New Amateur Radio Equipment.

There are several well known dealerships of Ham Radio Equipment who have advertising on the internet. But you will probably want to meet the dealer and build a relationship with them or even run the radio in a test in the shop. This is unfortunately not always possible if you buy online. In this case it is worthwhile to find a ham close to you that is already using the same type of radio that you intend to purchase. Arrange to visit and use the radio hands on. You can also get some first hand feedback from someone that has used the radio. Also read other reviews of the model you intend to purchase. In other words do your homework! Once you know what you want start shopping for the best price with the best service and guarantee.

Used Amateur Radio Equipment

When shopping for Used Amateur Radio Equipment there are many loopholes to lookout for. The most problematic is so-called DOA (Dead On Arrival) radios. It is an old trick of Ham's who have problems with their equipment to try and sell it to an unsuspecting buyer who then has to pay for the expensive repairs. So in every instance it is good to have technical test of the equipment done? This can be done by a independent friend you trust that could visit the seller and check the radio - or you can do it yourself. Often with e-Bay and other online advertisers the world is becoming a smaller place where it is not funny to find Australian Hams selling to Hams in the USA or where ever.... So get someone to check the equipment that is working before parting with your cash.

Another problem with used equipment is so-called guys/girls that have fingers that like to fiddle with adjustments that are normally reserved for people who are qualified technicians. The radio might not be DOA (dead) but chances are that the radio in such a case will probably not work properly - off frequency, deaf and under powered.

The last problem one might encounter is that the amateur radio equipment might have been stolen. This is especially true if you are buying from a non amateur. If you suspect something amiss post a message on one of the major blogs and enquire if anybody has lost a similar radio and ask them to post the serial number - don't put the number you have to prevent any uncertainty.

I hope you can get good equipment at reasonable prices.

Written by JD
South Africa
21 December 2006