[TowerTalk] Recommendations for Purchasing a short 2 Element 40 Meter Beam

L L bahr pulsarxp at embarqmail.com
Fri Aug 1 13:52:42 EDT 2014


I started this discussion, and am frankly overwhelmed by the quantity and quality of the suggestions and discussion given on this subject.  Again, I'd like to thank everyone for your views. They were most helpful. I now have decided to build a heavy duty version of the W6NL Moxon.  Since you guys took the time to write me your recommendations,  I'd like to take the time to tell you rightfully or wrongly why I decided on the above decision based on your input:

1. The design gives a lot of Bang for the size and cost.  (W6NL Heavy Duty Version 2 element 40 Meter Moxon)

2. I live in a subdivision with Deed Restrictions and even though I got approval for my antenna,  I think stacked antennas would be "pushing it".

3. There are a lot of plans on the internet on how to build this antenna and I don't have to re-invent the wheel.

4. I live near Houston, Texas and there are a lot of aluminum venders in the area and/or I can order some nice beefy aluminum from a few internet sources at good prices.

5.  I did some cost calculations and I believe I can build this antenna for around $700.00 using first class components including cast aluminum boom clamps and SS hardware.  (I now know there are some terrific antennas available but they will cost me $1600 to $1700 dollars.)

6. Some have pointed out to me there is little difference in time building this antenna from scratch compared to modifying a new Cushcraft XM240.  Building it from scratch will cost less then modifying a new Cushcraft XM240.  I'll also have better components in my homemade version and won't have to throw away some new parts from the kit.

7.  I plan to run some high power AM from time to time and coils and linear loading trouble me.  (Been there done that with my old 402BA)

8.  My requirements don't allow a full sized beam and this antenna will be up only 50 foot so the best antenna installation is not in the cards.

So there you have it.  Rightfully or wrongly I have decided to build from scratch a heavy duty W6NL 2 element 40 Meter Moxon. All your input brought me to this conclusion.  A few days ago I had limited knowledge on what I needed to buy, you guys changed all that.

Thanks all,

Lee, w0vt   


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