A Reader’s CB Antenna Question

A reader’s question I wanted to post a readers CB antenna question and my response. So here goes… “I have my 70cm/2m Diamond antenna on my roof for my TYT 9800 and it works great, but I want to string a separate CB/SSB field antenna up into the very large trees in my yard to get the best reception I can get. I live on a hill, 600ft MSL but between me and the closest city. 15-20 miles away is a hill that is 760ft MSL. I have “cobra heads” and resistors, 50’ of 12GA Solid copper clad PE jacketed wire and a 42’ Beldon 8340 50 Ohm RG-58/U BNC… Read More

Continue Reading

Building the Tiger Tail Antenna

“If you can make a dipole antenna, then you can make any antenna.” – NC Scout Background Your handheld radio has an antenna that is a quarter-wave “monopole”.  It’s not very efficient, but it’s a compromise for better portability and convenience. You can improve this by using a Tiger Tail (also known as a Rat Tail).  This is done by adding a counterpoise to your HT antenna, turning your monopole antenna to a dipole antenna.  This inexpensive and simply made extension will increase your transmission range and may increase your reception.  Because it is tuned you will need to create one for each of your commonly used frequencies. You can… Read More

Continue Reading