Once upon a time I owned an Icom 6m QRP Rig it was an IC 502 from memory, Whatever model it was  put out about 3 watts SSB and I had a lot of fun working DX into Japan and Aust with it. In those days I had a pair of 5 element 6m Yagis in use as they were plentiful in the area being ex TV. Sometime later I did add a homebrew Valve linear (Always an option)  I still continued to contact the same areas but with an improved signal their end which just added to the pileups.

It may be a while before DX opens again on 6m but when it does you will experience pileups like no other. My 6m activities were in the 1970's/80's I guess. Good Luck with the project

Charlie