This will be the anchor post for my FTM-300 Manpack project
I will add links to future posts to this one, so all the content past, present and future can be found in this one location.
Above is the first YouTube video to kick this off.
Below are the links to future blog posts and videos.
At the bottom is the intro blog on how and why I decided to make this FTM-300 Manpack
Related blogs
Coming soon...
The Manpack concept is pretty cool, but just not for me
The idea of having a Man Pack style radio kit has always appealed to me. The concept of a compact rugged all inclusive radio kit, that is always ready to go. When the radio is need, just attach or extend the antenna and turn it on. No additional setup required.
The Manpack setup is very useful for several applications. Obviously EMCOMMS, special events, SOTA, POTA, Etc. Also useful for someone who wants to keep their radio collection minimal. For example: being able to take your shack rig with you in your vehicle or cabin with ease of setup and minimal teardown.
The Manpack concept is pretty cool, I have just never put one together, for I like the idea of having my gear as module as possible. This keeping my options for use more open.
One could make a good case that my QRP kits could be considered Man Packs, I view them as more of a focal point for a modular system. While I can run the radio with what’s in the radio’s pack, its usually augmented with additional gear kept in other packs / pouches / bags that get added to the kit depending on the planned activities.
While I like the concept, a Man Pack radio kit just didn’t fit with my style of radio operating… So I thought.
Then The Tech Prepper released a video
Gaston KT1RUN has one of my favorite YouTube channels, The Tech Prepper. On that channel he has shown several different Manpacks he has created based around his radios with the Armorloq rails and connector relocation kits.
I really like how the Armorloq system works and was tempted to build out my Yaesu FT-891 into a Man Pack, but never did. I just could not bring myself to limit the versatility of the FT-891 as a stand along rig.
Then he started a video series on his Manpack based around his Yaesu FTM-6000. In one of his videos he was using this Man Pack as he provided radio support for a local event.
Then the lightbulb in my head turned on
The idea of using a FTM-300 Manpack during events put me over the edge. 50 watts of power in compact kit, plus built in APRS and the capability to cross band repeat would make it very useful for volunteering radio support for remote events.
After watching the video, I went to Armorloq’s website to see if they offered a rail kit for the Yaesu FTM-300. Unfortunately at the time they did not. I reached out to the company via email and they quickly responded that the FTM-300 is “one their list” but didn’t know when (if ever) they would offer rails for it.
Now in June, 2023 I started thinking about the FTM-300 Manpack idea. I checked the Armorloq website and they now offer rails for the FTM-300! So I promptly ordered the rails and the mounting accessories I will require for my grand plan.
My Grand Plan for the FTM-300 Manpack
Still be my mobile rig in my Jeep
Be able to use as a cross band repeater and APRS Digipeater in the field
Be able to use as my main VHF/UHF rig and APRS Igate in the home shack