"donutbandit" wrote in message
...
My question would be - why did you choose the homebrew group to ask this
question in?

This is a really good question. If you are really into building stuff,
there is no reason why you can't build a rig. Recognize, though, that
equipment for VHF/UHF is somewhat more difficult to construct than HF
equipment. Still, if it's the highly technical aspect of the hobby that
turns you on, there is no reason not to go after a homebrew station.
Amateur radio is the only service (in the U.S.) where you are allowed to
build and operate your own equipment, and many people do, especially folks
that follow this newsgroup.

For any new ham, especially one interested in building, the Radio Amateur's
Handbook must be the first purchase. Certainly, it bears significant study
before going out and plunking down a lot of money for a rig.

...