Distant 2m APRS contact

[LongRange308]

So, I know this isnt normal by any means, but dang, it sure is cool. ~170 miles from my location to the digipeater that picked up my packet. Thats pretty dang cool.

For reference, my setup is a Yaesu FTM-400xdr with a SBB5 on a fender mount.

 

[vagrant]

A VHF Propagation Map is a useful resource.

 

[prcguy]

I hit the exact same digipeater in Mexico when hiking around a local park in Palos Verdes, CA with a Yaesu VX-8R handheld and the distance shows 167m. I was very close to the area the OP made his contact and its very normal.
prcguy