On Wednesday, January 5, 2025, I planned a trip to Hickory to pick up my father and take him to lunch. With our family’s hectic schedule, I hadn’t been able to spend any meaningful time with him in weeks, so I was looking forward to catching up.
Of course, as is tradition, I also planned a POTA activation en route.
That morning, before leaving the house, I debated which park to activate: South Mountains State Park, Tuttle Educational State Forest, or Lake James State Park?
It had been a long time since I’d activated South Mountains, so I considered heading there. However, after checking their website, I was surprised to find the entire park still closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. I hadn’t realized the storm had impacted the foothills that severely—though with miles of trails, it made sense that they were still working to clear blowdowns.
Next, I checked Tuttle, only to discover it was still closed as well. Wow…
I knew the Catawba River access at Lake James was open because I had activated it a few weeks prior. Sure enough, their site confirmed that the Paddy’s Creek area—the park’s largest section—remained closed. Wow.
Clearly, I had underestimated the damage these parks sustained after Helene.
So, I set my course for Lake James, hoping that, by spring, the other parks would reopen. No doubt, park staff were working hard to make that happen.
Another mission
I had a specific radio in mind for this activation: my TEN-TEC Argonaut V.
I bought this radio used almost four years ago and have been very pleased with it. I’ve always been a big fan of Ten-Tec, and to me, the Argo V embodies the super-simple design I loved from their late 1990s/early 2000s radios. It features a big LED display, a prominent encoder, and a proper fold-out bail underneath—a solid legacy field radio.
What I love most about the Argo V (and Ten-Tec radios in general) is its superb audio, low-noise receiver, and silky-smooth QSK.
The Argo V wasn’t built to be a power miser—the audio amplifier is beefy and a bit current-hungry (I believe it draws around 500mA in receive, and more with audio output). But the tradeoff? Outstanding audio quality. It’s the perfect radio for Field Day or long operating sessions when you want to avoid listener fatigue. It’s also a fantastic shack radio.
That said, because of its bulk—and my tendency to grab smaller radios for field use—the Argo V has primarily lived in my shack.
Last year, I acquired a Ten-Tec Argonaut VI, the last Argonaut model Ten-Tec produced—one I helped beta test back in the day.
When I bought the Argo VI, I told myself I might let go of the Argo V at some point. I’ve been debating this ever since.
Lately, I’ve been actively downsizing my shack. I need to sell, trade, or give away radios I’m not using. I don’t like harboring “shelf queens”—I want my radios to get regular airtime. But since bringing the Argo VI into the shack, the Argo V hasn’t seen much action.
My friend Vlado (N3CZ) and I plan to sell gear at the Charlotte Hamfest in a couple of weeks. I figured this POTA activation might help me decide whether to sell or keep the Argo V.
So, with my Argonaut V and my Tufteln linked 40M EFHW packed, I made my way to Lake James!
Lake James State Park (US-2739)
That morning, Lake James was incredibly quiet. There were very few visitors—even though this was the only section of the park open.
Then again, it was early on a Wednesday morning, not exactly prime time!
I chose a picnic table near the parking lot since I was carrying the Argonaut V and gear in a storage box rather than a backpack.
I quickly deployed my End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) antenna and set up the Argonaut V.
Testing the TouchPaddles
Next, I hooked up my new-to-me TouchPaddles, a generous gift from a kind subscriber/supporter.
These keyers were originally sold as kits and have been discontinued for at least a decade. Though a bit bulky, it’s a fantastic CW accessory!
It uses capacitive touch paddles instead of mechanical parts. The added bulk and weight keep it stable while keying.
The unit also has built-in CW message memory. I haven’t programmed it yet (if you have experience with this model, let me know how!), but I plan to experiment with it soon.
The paddle has two output modes:
- Standard paddle output (for radios with built-in keyers, like the Argo V).
- External keying mode (for radios without built-in keyers or those with poor internal keying).
I used the standard paddle output since the Argo V’s internal keyer works brilliantly.
With everything hooked up, it was time to hit the air!
Gear
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Radio
- TEN-TEC Argonaut V
Antenna system
- TufteIn Linked 40 meter EFHW
- High Visibility Jacket ABR240-UF with PL-259s and 5 Ferrites (Use Coupon Code ABR10QRPER for 10% Discount!)
- SO-239 to BNC Adapter
Key and cable
- TouchPaddles Model P1 (discontinued)
- Key cable: Cable Matters 2-Pack Gold-Plated Retractable Aux Cable – 2.5 Feet
Logging
- Rite In The Rain Top Spiral Notebook
- Permanent Marker (not ideal, but what I had)
Camera
- Camera: DJI OSMO 4 action camera with Joby Telepod Sport Tripod
- DJI Wireless Microphones
On The Air
Since I was using a 40-meter EFHW, I had access to 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters without needing an ATU.
I started calling CQ POTA on 40 meters.
Within a few minutes, I logged three contacts, but then the band went quiet.
I switched to 20 meters, and as soon as the RBN re-spotted me, hunters started calling. Turns out, 20 meters was in much better shape than 40!
In 30 minutes, I logged 19 more hunters. I also took a ten minute break to test 10 meters, but it wasn’t as lively.
Overall, a superb activation!
QSO Map
Here’s what this five-watt activation looked like when plotted out on a QSO Map. Click on the map image to enlarge.
Activation Video
Here’s my real-time, real-life video of the entire activation. As with all of my videos, I don’t edit out any parts of the on-air activation time. In addition, I have YouTube monetization turned off, although that doesn’t stop them from inserting ads before and after my videos.
Note that Patreon supporters can watch and even download this video 100% ad-free through Vimeo on my Patreon page:
Click here to view on YouTube.
So what did I decide?
I had hoped this activation would help me decide whether to sell the Argo V.
Instead, it only made the decision harder.
Before this activation, I was pretty convinced I’d sell it. But after getting it on the air, I was reminded why I love this radio.
The QSK is phenomenal. Few radios—aside from other Ten-Tecs and Elecraft models—offer such silky-smooth, full break-in keying.
And honestly? I love the aesthetics of this radio.
I may still take it to Charlotte in a couple of weeks and decide then. As I mentioned in a recent Audio Dispatch for my Patreon supporters,
I struggle with selling radios—especially when there’s sentimental value involved.
While the Argo VI outperforms the Argo V in almost every way, I prefer the look of the Argo V.
Decisions, decisions… I’ll let you know what I decide!
Oh, and the TouchPaddles were a joy to use, but I need to train myself not to rest my fingers on the paddles when I’m not keying! Unlike mechanical keys, any touch activates it!
I think I may use this key during the HRWBOTA event coming up in a couple of weeks. It’ll be the perfect key for several hours of on-the-air time.
Thank you!
Thank you for joining me during this activation!
I hope you enjoyed the field report and my activation video as much as I enjoyed creating them!
Of course, I’d also like to send a special thanks to those of you who have been supporting the site and channel through Patreon, and the Coffee Fund. While not a requirement, as my content will always be free, I really appreciate the support.
As I mentioned before, the Patreon platform connected to Vimeo makes it possible for me to share videos that are not only 100% ad-free but also downloadable for offline viewing. The Vimeo account also serves as a third backup for my video files.
Thanks for spending part of your day with me and have a brilliant week ahead!
Cheers & 72,
Thomas (K4SWL)
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Keep it 🙂
Get rid of an FT-817 or similar. Radio’s with character, sentimental value and rarity should be cherished. I doubt it will sit on a shelf that much given how active you are!
👍
I have only one radio per niche. If I get a new radio to fill the niche, I sell the old one. That’s just me. I certainly understand the collector aspect and there are a few radios I still wish I had…
I have a pair of TenTec scouts 555’s with multiple modules they have great receivers and love the 7 pole Jones filters for cw. Very very basic radio with no bells and whistles.
Those Scouts are amazing radios!
As I wipe tears from my reading your dilemma about discarding a beautiful, classic piece of radio history, I struggle to understand the real reason for making the decision. It must have failed you miserably in the field at a critical moment or perhaps it’s unesthic appearance makes you turn away your face as you pass it on shelf. Ny heart aches for your decision..
Ha ha ha! You’re not helping, you know!
I would like to have dibs if you decide to sale it 😁. But, South Mtn State Park is closed at both locations the last I heard, hard getting anyone to call you back 🤦♂️. Tuttle Educational State Forest is still closed as well, it stinks when your close by parks you enjoy are closed.
I really hope those parks can open again this spring. I really miss hitting both of them. You can roll out of bed and hit South Mountains, so I know how this must put a damper on your POTA adventures.
Stay or Go? It really only matters if you like the radio, not what we may think.
The only Ten-Tec radio I’ve owned was a Century 21. I bought it used, spent a lot of time restoring it, made a few contacts and then sold it to someone else so they could enjoy it. I try my best not to be a collector!
👍
I’m also getting ready to have a spring cleaning and downsize some of my radios. My difficulty is deciding which ones to let go. I would be interested in knowing more about your decision process. I currently have a TR-35, ft-817, 818, and KX3. My 100 watt rigs are an ic-718, 706mk2g, IC-7200, ft 857D, and an ic-7300. I’m considering first releasing the ft817, ic718, and ic 706mk2g. My reason, besides having too many radios, is that I’m not using them frequently enough. Any suggestions from your experience.
I think you’re on the right track. Of the radios you listed, personally, I’d have no problem at all selling the IC-718. In many ways, it’s not a bad radio, but it falls apart when in the presence of strong signals. At least, that’s been my experience trying to navigate Field Day with one. Since you already have an 818, I think the 817 would be a great candidate, too.
I often think about parts availability with discontinued radios–that can also influence my decision.
Hi Thomas, the XYL and I decided to give Roan MT SP US-2972 a visit last week to check on the damage there and to spend a few quiet days. We came over on I 40 thru Knoxville TN, then over to I 81 then I 26 to Elizabethtown TN and finally up to Roan MT. Approaching the I40/I81 split were notices that I40 was closed ahead and traffic was being diverted up I 81 to alternate routing ( which gave us plenty of truck traffic!!). We also saw that David Crockett Birthplace SP US-2942 was closed. I believe the adjacent river cleaned it out completely. When we reached Elizabethton, Sycamore Shoals SP US-2979 appeared to be open although they had sustained some flooding. The main bridge at E-Town was closed due to damage so we detoured and arrived at our destination ao Roan MT. We opted to stay in a cabin due to the snow predictions and night temps in the low teens. We checked out the camping area (this is our favorite camping park) and there was only one area open, the bridge had washed out and isolated the other two camping areas. Later we went to Hampton Creek Cove SNA US-6246 to check it out. The river runs along the road and we saw quite a bit or disruption to the surrounding homes. Fallen trees, bridges to/from homes badly damaged/ washed away, just lots of heartache for the residents. This is not a financially strong area, hopefully these folks will get some relief!
Anyway, we had zero cell or internet service at the cabin, but we did have a wood stove and we brought books and games. It snowed 4” while we were there and it was beautiful!! I did bring a Penntek TR45 Skinny and my Chelegance 750, set it up in the snow and using 5 w managed 103 q’s operating on 40,30,20 and 17m.
This is a great area to activate, beautiful and plenty of parks to activate!!
Thanks for letting me ramble a bit!!
PS: keep BOTH TenTecs!!!!!
72,
KG4MTN
Hi Mike, Yes, that area received some substantial damage, too. Your camping trip sounds idyllic!
Brilliant that you were able to play some radio. I need to head back over to Roan sometime this year. It’s a beautiful spot. Haven’t mapped out how my trip there might be affected by road closures, though.
Hi Thomas,
It’s clear that you loved operating that radio!
How about this as a suggestion: Define criteria for when a radio should be “retired” quantitatively, such as “If I haven’t used it in N months”. Then you can review radios that are “in jeopardy” of being retired, and it can guide your selection of the radio that you will use to activate. It might have the benefit of forcing the rediscovery of some lost love of a particular radio. The value of the rediscovery is quite apparent in your video!
Still struggling with the get-a-KH1 or not…. Perhaps in Dayton if I can avoid HST and duties… though the ForEx is abysmal…..
Thanks for your great videos!
73
Scott, VA3EKR
This was also helpful to me Scott. Thanks for the suggestion.
Yes, in fact, I do basically have a rule that if I don’t use a radio in a year, it goes. The Argo V has been used in the shack more than the field. I think I may be judging it a little too hard.
The KH1? Just go for it!
Look forward to seeing you in person at Hamvention!
(And the prices at the Begali booth are much better at Hamvention!)
Cheers,
Thomas
Hi Thomas, you do a very nice job on your videos. I was curious about the EFHW you were using. Your documentation indicates a linked EFHW, but when I looked at the Tufteln website, I didn’t see a linked EFHW choice. Can you clarify which Tufteln antenna you were using? I have a decent field portable set up using the QRP Labs QMX transceiver (your video was the inspiration to purchase this!), but I need a good portable antenna to complement my SOTA Beam linked dipole and Wolf River Coil vertical, and your videos indicate a good EFHW may be the answer.
72,
Mike Newland
N4JRG
You might reach out to Joshua (N5FY) at Tufteln. This is a 20 meter EFHW with a 40M extension. I’m sure he makes them, but I’m not sure where they are on the site. He can certainly help!
I am the last person to throw rocks at the TenTec collection glass house but have to admit I think about cleaning off the shelves also. I can’t recall the last time I had the Argo V, Argo 556, or Argo 505 off the shelf. Becoming old and lazy, the Argo VI has a USB connector, and I can just transfer the cord back and forth from the Argo VI to the IC-7300 if I want to run CW or Digital/Phone. I do not get out in the wild like you so the ease of having N3FJP hooked up is too great. Still, I love the looks and the UI on the TenTecs.
72,
Jeff W0JMW
Let it GO, Let it Go….
Whenever I’ve sold a unique piece of hardware that is special to me, I regret it. The money I get for the thing just evaporates and doesn’t really fill the hole left by not having the thing.
Before I got back into CW with POTA I thought someone else would get more enjoyment from my vibroplex bug. I made a tidy profit flipping it, but I really wish I still had my bug.
Hi Thomas.
I will help you! Give it to me, I will use it and you may visit whenever you want! I can send you videos of the activation to ease your pain 😉
Cheers from Germany! DL7CW, Chris
best reply yet, Chris ! wish i’d thought of it
72’s de Randy