Simple Ham Radio Antennas

If you can't view the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXg7ZOAkDyg I really enjoyed this video from Denis (VK3BF).  I've built a few variations of this portable antenna for several amateur/ham radio bands from 80 meters through 10 meters. All have worked very well considering the limitations of compromise antennas. In this video, Denis shows us how to make an easy, inexpensive portable antenna for 40 meters and other bands.  Denis says the materials for this project are readily available.  Components include a Shakespeare telescoping carbon fiber fishing pole from Amazon, a LDG 4:1 balun, 33 feet-9 inches/10.289 meters of 18 gauge speaker wire, and various miscellaneous pieces.  Although an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner") isn't required, it may help solve any minor SWR issues found with this antenna. I have several of these fishing pole antennas at my ham shack for portable and emergency u...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXg7ZOAkDyg Operating your amateur radio equipment in field conditions can be a lot of fun if you have some compact, well designed equipment for your venture outdoors.  It goes without saying that a strong, easy to erect, and portable HF antenna will serve you well in Mother Nature's playground. In this video, Denis (VE3BF) shows us how some wire, a simple 4:1 balun, and an inexpensive fishing rod can become the basis of a great outdoor antenna.  Denis uses a spirally-wound wire on a readily available Shakespeare telescoping 20 carbon fiber fishing pole from Amazon to form a simple, inexpensive portable antenna for 40 meters and other bands.  When you're done with operating, the fishing pole collapses into an easily carried package which can be stored with the antenna components in your vehicle for the next field or emergency situation. Also, this ...