OK, my comment was too subtle. My point was actually about the EFHW becoming popular, an easy antenna to put up with NO antenna experience and NO reading about the parameters needed to consider to use antennas correctly and effectively.
Glenn (AE0Q):
It's called "Amateur Radio" for a reason and is open to anybody for the same reason. While some like to make this hobby a "service" (MARS, covering events, community EMCOM), it's realy a hobby that can sometimes be useful. The good news is that those that lack skills can learn them from others in the community - a GOOD thing. So why look down on them? Teach them instead - because the basics of the hobby are - well - really basic, but also a little esoteric - not generally taught in any school.
Otherwise, we could require every ham to have an applicable engineering degree (EE, SE, NO CEs, technicians or software designers, of course) from a real, accredited university and a PE certificate. THAT would certainly nail down the tech basics. AND thin out the ranks (by about 90%). But they'd STILL need to learn how to operate. And the nuances of antennas at HF are quite different from microwave - the most popular wireless comms medium. Not to mention operating conventions.
So with all due respect - I disagree.
BTW, you've also subtly said that resonant EFHW wire antenna work too well. And perhaps they do. (How many tools are abandoned for working "too well"?) But I like flexibility and convienience. Just a personal preference.
"Hey, Fred - grab me a screwdriver, I've gotta take out this rusty fastener. NO! Not THAT screwdriver! It works TOO well! No challenge. Get me the one I made myself with the rounded tip so I can strip out the screw slot. Then I can use my POWER DRILL to get the scew out, and THAT's more fun!"
Think about it.
Brian - K6BRN