Finally passed my General exam yesterday and my new privileges should show up in the ULS soon! Looking for advice on which HF band to try first for my inaugural General contact. I've been a Tech for 3 years, mostly 2m/70cm repeaters and some 10m SSB.

I keep hearing that 20 meters is the best for working DX and worldwide contacts, especially during favorable propagation. But I'm also interested in digital modes like FT8 which has become really popular on HF.

My current setup is an IC-7300 with a G5RV in the attic (HOA restrictions). What bands would give me the best chance of success for that first General QSO? Any specific frequencies or times of day to focus on?

Congrats on the upgrade! 20 meters is definitely your friend - try 14.200-14.230 for SSB during daytime hours. The 20m band is excellent for regional, national, and worldwide communication during favorable propagation. Your G5RV should work fine on 20. Start there and work your way to other bands as conditions change.

FT8 has become the most popular mode on HF and it's very forgiving for weak signal work. Try 14.074 on 20m FT8 - you'll be amazed at what you can work with that G5RV even in the attic. Download WSJT-X and you'll be logging contacts within minutes. Great confidence builder for a new General!

Don't overlook 40 meters! 7.200-7.300 is great for evening ragchews and you'll find it much less crowded than 20m during contests. If you're interested in emergency communications, having access to most HF bands gives you flexibility for traffic handling depending on propagation. Try 40m after sunset for some good domestic contacts to get your feet wet.