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Obtaining electronic parts cheaply - from hamfests Hamfests and vintage radio junk sales are great places to obtain parts cheaply. Very often you will find items that are either rare or expensive new. And while older stuff is heavier and clunkier than new equipment it is often made well, especially if it comes from an ex-commercial source. Hardware like boxes, connectors, baluns, antenna switches and other accessories can be good finds, helping you to set up a station for a fraction of what you'd pay new. Air-spaced variable capacitors and rotary switches are other great finds perfect for antenna coupler projects. However it's handy to have some knowledge as to what is good and what should be left on the table. For instance some coaxial antenna switches are very poor quality that will lose much of your signal. You don't want one of those. If you're just starting out go along with a more expeienced friend if you're thinking of making a large purchase or are looking for a particular item. There's some huge opportunities for bargains at hamfests. Including at the end when stuff is sometimes being given away. These videos give a flavour of some of my recent acquisitions. Attend the hamfests you can or miss out!   A box of hamfest freebies   All for one dollar   Mystery hamfest bargains   All for just six dollars     A hamfest haul in 2021   $20 in 2022   Two $2 hamfest bargains   What $7 bought in 2023   2024's haul   What to do when you have too much   Disclosure: I receive a small commission from items purchased through links on this site. Items were chosen for likely usefulness and a satisfaction rating of 4/5 or better.

Books by VK3YE Ham Radio Get Started (USA) Australian Ham Radio Handbook (Aust) Hand-carried QRP Antennas More Hand-carried QRP Antennas 99 things you can do with Amateur Radio Getting back into Amateur Radio Minimum QRP Illustrated International Ham Radio Dictionary Make your Passion Pay (ebook writing)   All material on this site (c) Peter Parker VK3YE 1997 - 2024. Material may not be reproduced without permission. Read privacy policy.