Topband: Extended Inverted "L" Antennas

[EP Swynar]

Here's a query for you more experienced inverted "L" afficianados...

Would I benefit from (possibly) optimizing the low angle radiation of my inverted "L" antenna, if it was to be cut exactly 1/4-wavelength --- as opposed to it being 170' long (overall), and tuned by way of a variable capacitor at the base...?

I currently have a 3-element tri-angular phased array (135-degree phasing) for 160-meters: All of the elements are of the classic W1BB design, i.e. 170' long, & resonated at the bases by individual variable capacitors.

I like this method of feeding the antennas, because I'm able to resonate each "L" individually & exactly on 1.820-MHz, without the hassle of pruning / trimming of any wire (a simple touch-up of the respective air variable capacitor does the trick)...but I'm wondering if maybe I'm introducing more high-angle radiation off of the flat top portions of each "L", than I really want to...

Note: the vertical portions of each "L" here is about 70' tall...the horizontal 100' balance is true horizontal, away from the vertical portion.

Any & all comments / revommendations are solicited in advance of the coming Top Band DX season...! 

Thanks in advance, & 

~73~ Eddy VE3CUI - VE3XZ