Why don’t hams like vertical dipole antennas?
Tom, ke6ynh, asks… “Why don’t hams like vertical dipole antennas.
Tom, ke6ynh, asks… “Why don’t hams like vertical dipole antennas.

Here is a step by step approach for an amateur radio vertical antenna mount using only a hole, gravel and a piece of plumbing pipe. Included is a story about know-it-all relatives.
Analysis of 43 foot vertical vs. BigIR at 10 meters.
If you are shopping for a vertical antenna for amateur radio read this NEC comparison of the 43 foot style vs. the SteppIR BigIR.
The 43 foot vertical antenna is a popular height being promoted by several antenna manufacturers for 160 to 10 meters. Let’s see why and examine some advantages and pitfalls.
Described is a no nonsense 16 foot copper vertical antenna easy enough to build for a quick check to see if a vertical is for you.
The BigIR antenna from Fluid Motion looks like a winner, but there are some concerns about the 80 meter option.