
When I was a kid (boy! that was a while ago) Heath Kit was king of kits. Also, Knight then became Allied from Chicago, was popular. These companies lost popularity in the 70's and ended their kit divisions in the 80's. Now I can't write about every kit company in this small blog and YES, there are many more and many still alive and well today! Knight & Heath Kits are still around. Most are already built or partially built. If you can find one that is in good shape, go for it. The manuals are not hard to find on the net and they provide good experience for the tech in us. In case you really get the bug and can't get it working (this happens), you can count on Ron at R.T.O.electronics in Calexico, California. Email: hamtech@rtoham.com. I have used his service. He is great and the cost is very reasonable. In fact he is so popular, there will be a wait 'till he can get to it, but it will be done right.
Furthermore, Ramsey kits are still popular. They provide an excellent choice for the novice to expert kit builders. Necessary tools can be easily found at your local Radio Shack. For you dad's that feel the need to do some bonding, order a simple kit that is quick and easy to build, and turn off that T.V. set. You will soon discover and get to know that other person you are living with (beside your wife). Kits take time if they are done right. Putting the power to something and watching something come to life which you built is worth it. My Uncle Ralph ( W6WET) was right; there is something in ham radios for everyone. Well I can go on about kits all day, but I need to move on to another subject. That is setting up a station...Anything worth doing is worth your time to do well. 73 ki5jb
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