Creating a tactical go bag tailored for ham radio operations requires meticulous planning and strategic packing. Whether you’re preparing for emergency communications, field day operations, or overlanding adventures, having a well-equipped go bag can make all the difference. Here’s a detailed look at a custom-built tactical go bag, loaded with essential gear for a comprehensive communication setup, which also doubles as a man pack for versatile field operations.
Components and Features
Bag Design and Layout
- Backpack Model: Tripole Force tactical backpack.
- Compartments: Multiple compartments for organized storage, including two additional free compartments for coaxial cables and other accessories.
- Attachment Points: Molle webbing for easy attachment of additional pouches and gear.
- Man Pack Capability: Designed to be worn comfortably for extended periods, making it suitable for mobile operations while on foot.
- Waterproof Cover: Includes a waterproof cover to protect the equipment from harsh weather conditions.
Primary Equipment
- HF Transceiver: Yaesu FTDX10, securely packed in the main compartment.
- Power Supply Unit: Meanwell PSU, ensuring stable power for all equipment.
- Computing: Raspberry Pi for digital modes and logging, alongside a laptop for advanced operations and logging.
- Microphone: Quality mic for clear communication.
- USB Cables: Various USB cables for connectivity between devices.
Antenna System
- HF Whips: Multiple whips for high-frequency operations.
- Antenna Connectors: Assorted connectors to ensure compatibility with various antennas.
- Pipes: Lightweight pipes for constructing antenna setups on the go.
- Vertical HF Antenna: Equipped with a whip and coil for 40m to VHF frequencies.
- Big Ear Antenna: Dual whips for 20 meters to VHF, providing robust coverage across a wide range of frequencies.
Handheld Transceivers
- VHF/UHF Handheld Transceivers: A few handheld transceivers for short-range communication and backup.
Additional Accessories
- Coaxial Cables: Stored in the free compartments, essential for connecting antennas to the transceiver.
- Miscellaneous Accessories: Space for additional items such as batteries, chargers, notepads, pens, and other essential tools.
Secured Connections and Power
All cables and the power supply are carefully connected and secured with foam padding to prevent movement and damage during transport. This ensures that the equipment remains safe and operational, even in rugged conditions.
Man Pack Functionality
The tactical go bag’s design as a man pack makes it highly functional for:
- Mobile Operations: The ergonomic design allows for comfortable carrying during long hikes or while moving through difficult terrain.
- Rapid Deployment: Quick access to all equipment enables immediate setup and operation, critical in emergency situations.
- Hands-Free Operation: While worn as a man pack, operators can use handheld transceivers and microphones without needing to unpack equipment.
Functionality and Use Cases
This tactical go bag is designed for versatility and readiness, suitable for various scenarios including:
- Emergency Communications: Quick deployment in emergency situations, ensuring reliable communication channels.
- Field Day Operations: Ideal for field day setups, providing all necessary equipment in one compact package.
- Overlanding and Off-Grid Living: Perfect for overlanding trips, supporting long-range communication and off-grid living needs.
- Contesting and DXing: Equipped to handle contesting and DXing, with robust antennas and transceivers.
- Man Pack Operations: Perfect for field missions where mobility is crucial, allowing operators to stay connected while on the move.
Detailed Overview of Go Bag Contents
Main Compartment
- Yaesu FTDX10: A high-performance HF transceiver, ideal for both base and field operations.
- Meanwell PSU: A reliable power supply unit, providing consistent power to all electronic equipment.
- Raspberry Pi: A compact computer for running digital modes, logging, and other essential software.
- Laptop: For more intensive computing needs, software operation, and logging.
- Microphone: Ensuring clear and effective voice communication.
Side Compartments
- HF Whips and Vertical HF Antenna: For versatile antenna setups depending on the operational environment.
- Big Ear Antenna: Enhancing reception and transmission across a wide range of frequencies.
Front and Top Compartments
- Handheld Transceivers: VHF/UHF HTs for local communication and backup.
- Cables and Connectors: USB cables, coaxial cables, and assorted connectors to ensure seamless integration of all components.
Additional Storage
- Miscellaneous Tools and Accessories: Batteries, chargers, notepads, and other essentials to support extended operations.
Secured Connections and Power
All cables and the power supply are carefully connected and secured with foam padding to prevent movement and damage during transport. This ensures that the equipment remains safe and operational, even in rugged conditions. The foam padding also provides additional protection against shocks and vibrations, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of sensitive electronic components.
Waterproof Cover
The inclusion of a waterproof cover adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that all equipment remains dry and functional even in adverse weather conditions. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor operations where sudden weather changes can pose a risk to electronic gear.
Man Pack Functionality
The tactical go bag’s design as a man pack makes it highly functional for:
- Mobile Operations: The ergonomic design allows for comfortable carrying during long hikes or while moving through difficult terrain.
- Rapid Deployment: Quick access to all equipment enables immediate setup and operation, critical in emergency situations.
- Hands-Free Operation: While worn as a man pack, operators can use handheld transceivers and microphones without needing to unpack equipment.
Functionality and Use Cases
This tactical go bag is designed for versatility and readiness, suitable for various scenarios including:
- Emergency Communications: Quick deployment in emergency situations, ensuring reliable communication channels.
- Field Day Operations: Ideal for field day setups, providing all necessary equipment in one compact package.
- Overlanding and Off-Grid Living: Perfect for overlanding trips, supporting long-range communication and off-grid living needs.
- Contesting and DXing: Equipped to handle contesting and DXing, with robust antennas and transceivers.
- Man Pack Operations: Perfect for field missions where mobility is crucial, allowing operators to stay connected while on the move.
This custom-built tactical go bag is a comprehensive solution for any ham radio enthusiast, offering a balance of portability, functionality, and versatility. Whether for emergency operations, field days, overlanding, or man pack missions, this setup ensures that you are always prepared for effective communication in any situation. The addition of secured connections, foam padding, and a waterproof cover further enhances its durability and reliability in diverse environments.