Handheld Antennas

[Taigrr]

I am curious as to what the most effective use of an antenna on a handheld radio (FT60) is.


Is it worthwhile to find a longer antenna than the stock FT60 duck? I understand the benefits of screwing on a Diamond antenna may not be worth spending the money. What about something three feet long, for instance? On 2m and 440 specifically?

I understand the benefit of a mobile antenna is to get the antenna to the outside of a vehicle. But, while standing outside, would a longer antenna also be of benefit? Reduce static, and maybe even increase "range" of the radio?

I store my radio on the side of a backpack. I've always wondered, because I do have the ability to carry it, if a long antenna would be of use with an FT60 Handheld.

 

[TheSpaceMan]

I am curious as to what the most effective use of an antenna on a handheld radio (FT60) is.


Is it worthwhile to find a longer antenna than the stock FT60 duck? I understand the benefits of screwing on a Diamond antenna may not be worth spending the money. What about something three feet long, for instance? On 2m and 440 specifically?

I understand the benefit of a mobile antenna is to get the antenna to the outside of a vehicle. But, while standing outside, would a longer antenna also be of benefit? Reduce static, and maybe even increase "range" of the radio?

I store my radio on the side of a backpack. I've always wondered, because I do have the ability to carry it, if a long antenna would be of use with an FT60 Handheld.

There are longer antennas that can improve HT range to a degree. However if you really want maximize the range of a HT on 2 Meters or 440, just pick up one of those small portable handheld beams from Arrow or ELK! It astounds me how far my little ELK beam increases the range of HT.

 

[AD0GI]

Stock rubber ducks are almost never very good and there are several ways to upgrade. You could just get a better rubber duck, wire, or other portable antenna.

What I did was to pick up a mag mount that I put on my oven/range hood at home and car roof while mobile. Comet and Diamond are two manufactures to look into. But read reviews on the specific model you intend to buy before doing so because while they both have models that seem to be great, they both have others that are not.

I went with the Diamond MR77SMA and am happy with it.

 

[K4NNW]

If you find yourself in fringe areas of repeaters a lot, then yes, it's worth it. It can also let you run less power to access the same repeaters. Don't expect a world of difference, though.
I've had a Diamond SRH-77CA for some years and that has been my main backpack portable antenna. It has also been much more durable than any factory HT antenna I've had. That antenna is 17" long and a bit stiff, though.