VHF emergency deployable antenna

In 2008 I ran across Bob Hejl's web site that included over 20 antennas that he designed. His site then existed on AOL.Hometown, but he moved the site to http://www.w2ik.com/ when AOL.Hometown closed down.

I like Bob's detailed instructions on how to build his antennas. He has a real gift for explaining things, and his carefully chosen photographs gave me enough confidence to try building his VHF emergency deployable antenna (http://www.w2ik.com/W2IK_ANTENNAS.html).

I had to shop at four different stores to find all the parts and pieces. I had trouble finding two items. The pool pole was not stored in an obvious place at Lowe's but armed with the item number, the store staff pointed me to the right place. Otherwise I might still be wandering the aisles. The second hard to find item was the sewer pipe. Neither Lowe's or Home Depot had the right item, but Grover's Plumbing Supply had an ample stock at a good price.

During construction I learned that my light duty soldering iron was insufficient to solder the coax to the barrel connector. I asked for help that was gladly offered. Once that solder joint was done, the rest went together smoothly.

One caution: make sure the pool pole is VERTICAL in the sewer cap. I got mine slightly out of plumb, and the pool pole is just long enough to rub the sides of the sewer pipe enclosure when screwing the unit together for storage. This adds some difficulty screwing the cap on tight.

Does it work well? Yes! The J-pole antenna goes up about 15 feet, and then extends up another four feet or so. I was able to work a station over 15 miles away on FM simplex that I could not hear with a rubber duckie. So, if you are looking for ways to improve the signal from your handheld, improve your antenna. Your horizons will broaden.

Bob designed other antennas that I have not tried. His IKStik intrigues me, but I have not yet found a good source for the fishing pole he used. Must live too far north....