Topband: Inv-L wire in contact with tree branches

[Shoppa, Tim]

> Copperclad would probably be more durable but the contact with the tree
> branches on exposed wire would be no good. Enamelled copperclad would soon
> have the enamel worn off & there would be direct metal contact to the branches.
> I can't find any of the old copperclad two element telephone wiring around here
> with UV proof & durable insulation as the phone company won't give it or sell
> it privately when they take it down. I looked at the wire Home Depot has and
> the stranded wire doesn't seem to have a tough insulation.

The RF Connection (therfc.com) sells stuff they call "polystealth" that is stranded copper clad steel with a pretty decent plastic insulation. I think Wireman sells similar stuff but with a different moniker.

It isn't "real copperweld" but it does seem pretty durable (admittedly I've never used it where extended tree branch abrasion was an issue but I've had it in trees for 4 years with no problems.)

The stranded stuff is a zillion times easier to handle than solid copperclad steel (does not encase you like a snake!!!)

Tim.