Here are some interesting articles from QST in December 1923, 1973, and 1998.
Shortwave Tuner Design by K.E. Hassel, 9ZN
Most, if not all new designs, are now software-defined, digital radios, but if you ever decide to build your own receiver, this might be a good article to consult. 9ZN gives a lot of good advice on how to make good coils and variable capacitors. This article caught my eye because of the call 9ZN because Bill Crane, W9ZN, a fellow who was a great CW operator, recently became an SK.
A High-Performance 20-, 40-, and 80-Meter Vertical System by J. Sevick, W2FMI
Jerry Sevick, W2FMI, wrote many articles and books about short vertical antennas. Here, he describes his design for a three-band antenna system consisting of one vertical for 80 meters and one for 20 meters/40 meters. He notes that they could be built separately. This article is worthwhile reading if you’re considering how to work more DX, especially on 80 meters.
Low Power, Crummy Antenna by Rob Henderson, KB7PWJ
Rob writes, “Ingenuity compensated for a limited budget in the Golden Age of Radio, and it’ll do the same today. The tools and techniques to make radio magic are everywhere. If your wallet is a bit thin, it’s time to indulge your creativity. According to Rob’s QRZ.Com page, he’s still using crummy antennas 25 years later.