How to Get on HF - The Easy Way

I was first licensed in 2005 but don't have much on-the-air experience. I recently returned on the air after a hiatus and felt like I needed some additional guidance. This book fit the bill. It has a lot of info based on the author's experience; it is not, however, a comprehensive operating manual and is not intended to be. I rated it 5 stars based on its intended audience.The book covers types of equipment needed according to one's budget. The author also discusses various operating modes and operating etiquette. He does not get very technical and there is no discussion of electronics or complex math. The writing style is easy to read and the author occasionally throws in a bit of humor. The only negative for me is that I thought the book was somewhat pricey compared with the others I looked at but the author is, after all, sharing many years of experience. After reading the book, I felt like it helped me and I would buy it again.

This book is very clear and immediately useful. Buck’s style is entertaining and studded with memorable anecdotal images. Realistic dialogue is included to exemplify how (and how not) to proceed while making contacts. He covers two dozen topics and nearly 40 subtopics including modes, choosing equipment, grounds, antennas, operating strategies, propagation, QSO etiquette, confirming contacts, and much more. Buck is an insightful and efficient writer. Through the economy of his language, he explains concepts quickly and directly. He avoids whimsical filler. Footnotes explain terms that are unique to amateur radio. This book continues to be a ready reference in my shack. I also bought his book on DX and his prep book for the Extra ticket. As the best mentors do, he shares his knowledge with all by way of practical examples and applicable guidance.

I bought this book and the author's other book about DX. Both have great information and are well-written and lightened with some of his personal stories and QSL cards.However, he recycles large sections of one book in the other. I read his HF book first, and when I read the DX book it felt like large portions of the content were not just familiar but duplicated verbatim. Even so, the new information about DX made the purchase worthwhile. I just wish he'd go the next step and combine the two into a single, higher-priced volume.

I love this book. After passing my Test a this really cleared up what all of the technical terminology meant in an east to understand way. Buck’s books have been with me during my entire journey into radio. It’s like having an Elmer in the bookshelf.

It’s was written in easy way to understand and make it’s easier to go over the basics. If you’re a new one this is what you need to understand must of the terminology and procedures.

This is the most information I've every read in a small space of bandwidth. This reference and study guide should be in everyone's desk.

Perfect book to get on the air. Answers all the little questions.

Craig's books are good info! I've actually met him. Good series of books, especially for someone starting out.