Which VHF Antenna?

[tinkicker0]

Due to yet another non delivery by the marine megastore, in the market again for a GRP VHF antenna.

Looking at 2 makes - Banten and Glomex. Looking at 2 sizes - 1,5 and 1.8 metres. 20ft sportsboat. Dont want a bigger one cos it will look plain daft on a small boat, however I don't want one that is very thin and whippy either, because I may consider flying the forum burgee from it in calm weather - 6 knot speed limit. (grown weary at upsetting aging, pipe smoking, Seamaster and Freeman Skippers with bad flag etiquetty).

Also looking for a mount, any recommendations? Probably going to be a nylon (spit) one because I can't afford a stainless one, other things to buy.

Any one got any preferences or any tales of woe to tell or perhaps a better suggestion? I realise with a short antenna and deck / gunnel mount it will not be the last word in long distance communications.

Thanks.

 

[Watson47]

It won't tick all of your boxes, but the METZ VHF Antenna is a superb antenna;

http://www.saltyjohn.co.uk/metzmantavhfantennaaerial.htm

 

[Philiz]

I fitted 2 Pacific VHF aerials earlier this year. Very good quality and excellent reception/transmission. They have a very clever mini plug system which allows the cable to be easily fed through holes etc.
I also bought 2 stainless steel mounts off Ebay for less than the price of one at the swindlery.

 

[colingr]

1.8m Glomex does it for me. Similar sized boat.

 

[tinkicker0]

Thanks Philiz and Jokerboat, I will look more closely at the Glomex and peruse the Pacific ones then.

cheers.

 

[mikesyam]

Agree 200% with Watson47, fitted the METZ to my 7.8 rib earlier this year and its brilliant, far better reception than other antennas fitted to pals boats and you dont have to purchase a separate mount either.

 

[tinkicker0]

Thanks Mike and Watson47, the metz isn't really what I had in mind. Looking for something with a bit more mechanical strength and a sleeker design.

Although I am sure it is a fine antenna.

 

[Philiz]

Had glomex on our previous boat. It was okay, but the Pacific seem a bit sturdier. Both aerials 1.8m by the way. The fitting on the Pacific made installation easier too, and the cable can be easily extended if needs be.

Stainless mounts were bought from here http://www.ridethewaves.co.uk/

 

[PaulGooch]

I have twin 2.4m Glomex's. No, not for the Ford Capri look, one is for AIS

I tried the burgee on one, but with a small breeze it was giving the antenna some stick.