QRP 40M ~ 80M Linked Dipole
STILL THE BEST IN CLASS
Listing Description:
The Nano linked dipole is a classic half-wave dipole antenna optimized for QRP / QRP Portable and Stealth operation. It takes almost no space and weighs almost nothing. It consists of an BNC connector 24 AWG stranded, UL1007 copper antenna wire and two (2) ring connector eyelets at each end. The 40 Meter section attaches with 2 spring-back paracord clasps which relieve the strain on the bullet connectors that carry the current. All electrical connections are soldered using silver bearing rosin-core solder. Parts and connections have been weather proofed using marine-grade, adhesive-lined polyolefin tubing.
Weighing approximately 4.3 oz. (123 grams) this antenna is a half-wave dipole on 20 meters and a half-wave dipole on 40 meters when the additional elements are attached. When compressed, it fits into a space 4" x 2.5" x 1" (101 x 63 x 25mm). Extended, the dipole is cut for 20 meters, the elements 40 Meters. The Linked Nano can be used in any of the standard dipole configurations, flat-top, inverted V, sloper, vertical dipole, wire vertical w/counterpoise, etc.
Having used many antennas over the years for portable QRP operation, I have not found any antenna configuration to greatly out-perform the classic half-wave dipole as demonstrated by our Nano Linked Dipole. Many hours of operating and hundreds of dollars later, I have come full-circle and returned to what I believe is the best, simplest antenna solution. All things being equal (conditions, power, terrain, height etc.), this antenna raised close to a 1/4-wave above the ground is highly effective. I have been just as successful, or more, making contacts with a classic half-wave dipole than with anything else. The exceptionally rugged, compact and light Nano allows this portable performance anywhere.
HOW ABOUT A 40/80M VERSION?
The description above is for his 20/40M but while he does not advertise a 40/80M, but he was quick to respond to my request and we settled on $89.00 delivered.
Could I have made one myself for 1/2 the price? Probably, but I didn't feel like going to the trouble and like supporting a fellow HAM who is making a quality product.
Quality is what you get and bombproof construction. I can see this is going to be my primary field antenna for some time to come.
Paired with my new 16ft carbon fiber fishing pole, a center stand (20" run of 1/2" rebar) and two guy stakes.
Goture//Telescopic Tenkara Fishing Rod
It makes for a fast and easy setup for NVIS which is what I use in the field for ~50 mile contacts with the homestead and regional contacts out to 300-400 miles.
Just add a rock and I'm in business 3X times faster than I can hang an EFHW for 40/80M and this dipole is resonant so I can use it with my Xiegu G90 (which has an awesome tuner) or Yeasu FT-817 which has none.
Highly recommended!