Thanks for the many useful replies. Specific articles recommended by Jim, W9TM, www.ncjweb.com/k3lcmaxgainradials.pdf and Joe, K4IK, 'http://www.kkn.net/dayton2004/HF_vertical_ground_system_design_N6LF_Dayton.p'). A simplified summary: Make'em longer first and lay down as many as possible up to .025wl at the ends. Howard..K2HK