Hi Mike,
I’ve used one on a few activations. On Mount Hopkins I used it and made 14 QSO’s, mainly on 40m, with CA, AZ, and CO. I also used it on a couple of small Phoenix peaks as well, much to my surprise I worked as far as Maine on 40m with it, with 5 watts out from the rig. And even more surprising was making a few 80m QSO’s with it (although only with local Phoenix guys and spotting help).
However, the contacts definitely were not easy and I have pretty much decided against using it very often. It’s fun to use such a simple antenna, and I agree that the key is the counterpoise, but I think most other options will be better. And it’s actually heavier than some of the most simple antennas (such as a packtenna mini or homebrew endfed). Sometimes I do carry it as a backup antenna to use in case something goes wrong with my primary antenna.
I saw your spot and was hoping to catch you - sorry it didn’t work out, I’ll be looking for you to return to that peak!
73,
Keith KR7RK