Tiger Tail counterpoise for 5/8 wave 2m antenna

Hey everyone, first timer here.

I had a question about a "tiger tail" counterpoise. I recently bought a telescoping 5/8 wave 2m antenna from Smiley Antenna (Super Stick II 2 meter | Smiley Antenna) and I'm trying to get the absolute best performance out of it that I can. I was told I could create a simple counterpoise by attaching a wire to the base of the antenna, and that that could improve the performance. The antenna is 48" tall when it's extended, so I'm assuming I would need a counterpoise of the same length? I'm not sure what gauge wire to use, either... Any input would be much appreciated.

Thanks!
Patrick
KE7VGW

12 gauge wire will be fine. Yes match the antenna length. And if you use a Yellow ring terminal, with a little filing you can fit it down over the BNC connector and then put the antenna on if the radio case allows it.

Cool, thanks. I think my radio has an SMA connector so I don't think I'll need to do any filing. Do you think the counterpoise will make a noticeable difference?

Any gauge wire is fine and its best made 1/4 wavelength long or about 19" for 2m. A "dangling counterpoise" like the Tiger Tail makes a noticeable improvement on any hand held antenna.

BTW, I have a Smiley 5/8 wave like yours and also purchased one of these, it seems to be the same size and performance for $13.49 shipped to your door. http://www.ebay.com/itm/131490453429?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
prcguy

Here's a "how-to" video that has more than one way of attaching the tail -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szmQmCn1tH4

Try some of that super flexible cable used on HF dipole antennas.