Random ham radio tip: if you're new, DO NOT BUY THE LATEST AND GREATEST RADIO WITH THE MOST BELLS AND WHISTLES THAT COST $$$.
Get something used or older, and basic. Learn how to use it. Operating technique and antenna has a lot more to do with radio than how much money you spend on anything (radio or antenna).
I've made most of my contacts on vintage radios, on antennas made out of scrap wire and PVC. Never paid more than $10 for an HF antenna, most of them are made out of junk I found on the side of the road.
