Building the Comet GP-9 with the Yaesu 2980

In this video I am building and setting up my new Comet GP-9 Antenna. In addition I am showing you the coolest little 2M radio you may not know about, the Yaesu 2980.
✅Facebook: / hr4nt
✅Website: hamradiofornon...
✅Patreon: / hr4nt
✅Twitter: / hamtechies
✅HR4NT Amazon Store: amzn.to/3bkzzAo
✅TOADs Discord: / discord
✅Kit.co Product Recommendations: kit.co/ki5npl
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My Current Shack Setup:
ICOM IC-7300
Yaesu FT-991A
DX Commander Classic
Comet GP-9 Antenna - bit.ly/3KAUjDh
Diamond GZV4000 Power Supply - www.hamradio.c...
LDG AT200 PROII Tuner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
#hr4nt
#ki5npl
#hamradiofornontechies

[@ronwolenski-n8wcr]

That antenna is a monster. I was impressed that you were able to put it up by holding at the end with the mast!

[@HR4NT]

Believe me while I was up on that ladder and the wind was blowing I knew exactly how big that antenna was.. Lol.. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73

[@Desertwolf426]

Great video! I have 2 of these and they work great. Constructive criticism: coax wrap goes on the joint first then the super 33+. The super 33+ protects the wrap from UV breakdown.

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for the tips! Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching. 73!!

[@shellmaker10]

Great video! I am a new Ham and I will be putting up my first antenna soon. I have watched this several times and keep seeing new things....just awesome. By watching multiple times and reading the comments and your responses it has shortened the learning scale many times over. A huge thanks goes out to you..

[@HR4NT]

Hey! I am glad it was helpful! If you are considering this antenna for VHF/UHF stuff...do not hesitate! It is a fantastic antenna that performs very well! If you have the room and ability to put one up, it is very worth it. Also if you have questions feel free to contact me through my website. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@eddieslittlestack7919]

Welcome to Han Radio buddy. I too have this radio, I really like it.

[@apw30534]

I just put up a Comet GP9N on a 30ft mast this last weekend. Currently has a Kenwood TM281A connected to it but I will be replacing that radio with one of these FT2980R's in a few days. I am amazed at all the new repeaters I am hitting with the GP9 already. Cant wait for the FT2980R to arrive.

[@HR4NT]

Definitely! That antenna is just awesome and with the gain you get form it you can really reach out there even on simplex and make some good contacts. Glad you are enjoying the antenna! Thanks for the comment an for watching. 73!

[@luish19779]

I got the Comet 712 - 460-470 and work so good. I recommend those Comet antennas.

[@HR4NT]

Comet seems to make some pretty reliable and good antennas. I am very happy with the GP-9. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!!! **

[@jimmarcum7362]

Thanks for posting the building of the GP9. When using Scotch 33 plus, I was taught to stretch it as you wrap it on itself. I learned this in the 70's from a master electrician/lineman. I think that is the reason why they call it plus. His job was to replace HV transmission lines on towers leading from hydroelectric dams. I have two of those Ft-2980 radios, they rock. I bought my first one on black Friday 2017 from HRO for $134 which I thought was a bargain. The next one I bought was a Dayton online special in 2018 for $114. I was afraid they closing them out when the price dropped. Covid hit and the prices went over 200 bucks. Glad to see the prices are coming back down. Great radio to do simplex on. I live in a hilly area where UHF does not do well. I hope you switch from RG8 to LMR400 in the future. FYI the info in the manual on how to set custom memory banks on my radio was incorrect, hopefully they have changed that. I had to watch a video on youtube on how to setup custom menu banks on a Yaesu handheld to figure it out. Later on I bought RTS Software which took care of the custom memory banks. Great to see how well the GP9 is constructed and how easy was to assemble. Thank You!

[@HR4NT]

Hi Jim! You are very welcome! Glad you found value in my video. The prices did drop considerably based on your data which is a good thing. The 2980 seems to be a great VHF radio and I still use it every day now. I think they did change the manual for programming the radio because I was able to program it just fine. That GP-9 is suck a good antenna that I think it should be a first pick for anyone that "can" put one up and will use it regularly. It is just a great performing antenna. I am planning on getting better coax in the future. 75 feet of 400 is a bit steep right now. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@africantwin173]

Here in the Netherlands they are sold for 185 US.

[@JoeFramo-uw9fp]

Love your presentation😊

[@greg5929]

Great video. Very interesting watching the attention to detail. But had to LOL at you trying to obscure it because of the HOA especially with the massive and obvious DX commander smack dab in the middle of the back yard. 😆

[@HR4NT]

LOL...yeah well once Spring kicks into gear and the trees around the antennas start to gain more foliage, they will literally disappear and look like branches in the background. From the street you can barely see them unless you are looking for them. I get your point though...lol Thanks for watching....73!

[@rebeccaanton5735]

Your paint job looks awesome! I'm putting together a GP-6, but will try to emulate yours. Also, I second the guy who said the rubber splicing tape goes on before the electrical tape. (I'm using 3M Temflex 2155 and Super88.) And I was told to stretch it a bit as you roll, and to wrap from the bottom up, so the water sloughs off better. 73, W5TTA

[@HR4NT]

Yeah I agree I should have wrapped it differently, however, since this video, nothing has failed or caused an issue so far.. Best of luck on your project! Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@user-h576b45]

Video was great...camera positioning and explanations were perfect. I was at a standstill on lining up my interiors on the sections but now I should have no problem. I also have a Yaesu 2980R and with my CP22E I was getting intelligible signal to the car at 40 miles when my wife was driving at high elevation points along the road. I just put up a 50 foot tower and this GP9 will be so much better with the higher gain. Thanks again for an informative video. 73

[@HR4NT]

Glad it was helpful! I wanted to make sure I had a tutorial video that showed all the stuff that was left out of the other "build" videos. I am glad that I was on point for you! Having this antenna up 50 ft will be a massive advantage for you! Thanks for watching and for the comment! 73!!

[@68vmoore]

I did this same setup for a friend last week. A GP 9 at 20 ft and the 2980. He lives 50 miles away. I was hitting our local repeater on 80w full quieting . You're correct this is a good setup. de KO4MAQ 73

[@Blaculo]

I bought a 2980R and Comet CX-333 tri band earlier this year. Loving the setup so far.

[@HR4NT]

Sounds like a good setup! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@Aimsport-video]

Came here to thank you for compiling so much great info and resources on your website. Awesome.

[@HR4NT]

My pleasure! I am glad that you find the info useful. I add new content to the site regularly. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!!

[@douglofreddo7886]

That antenna looks like an absolute monster. The 2980 seems like a great rig. I had the FT-1900R back in the day which was similar but only did 50 watts. The menu, display, buttons and everything else were more or less the same.

[@HR4NT]

LOL...at 17 feet tall, the GP-9 is a monster!!! I really like the 2980 and a big selling point for me was that it pushed 80 watts. I wanted to separate my HF ops from my 2M stuff and this was the solution. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@davidp73]

I have the comet gp9 with the icom 2730a dual bander. I use it mostly on simplex. Great antenna

[@HR4NT]

I agree. Now that I have had it a while and used it for my simplex operations...wow it is an awesome antenna! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@charlesstephens3660]

Nice vid. Lots of good info here.The only thing I would add is I would loc-tight those screws in the antenna. Also be aware that some people have had those puny disc ceramic caps in the antenna burn out with less than the rated power.

[@HR4NT]

Good suggestions and great tip! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@stevemazz3121]

I have a Radio Shack HTX 242 that has the features found on this radio. Max output is 50 watts stepping down to 1 watt… Nice to see a possible upgrade to my solid old work horse. I have only used it as a base and never had a problem. Thanks for sharing..

[@HR4NT]

Yeah the GP-9 is a great universal VHF/UHF antenna. The gain from it alone is worth the price as long as you have room for a 17 foot antenna...LOL Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@PopeyeKF4LBG]

The 212 was my first non HT 2 mtr. radio. It was a beast! Loved that radio... I miss it. Now I run a FT 2900. 73 de KF4LBG

[@MurderHornet2020]

I just dug my HTX242 out of the attic and the poor mic cable just disintegrated when I stretched it out. So I just ordered a Yaesu 2980 as a replacement radio today😂

[@Sparkfly88]

I have the 2980 myself as a base. Wanted it because its damn near bomb proof. Have a Tram 1860 on a 30' mast hooked up to it with 50' of LMR 400. I debated getting the 1861 which is a copy of the antenna in this video. The build quality on the comet looks FAR superior though. I'm able to hit repeaters all over the state of Florida. 130 miles is the farthest so far.

[@HR4NT]

That is amazing that you are able to reach out 130 miles!!!! I agree that radio is built like a tank! I am very happy with mine and love that it is 80 watts packed in a small radio. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@kevinwelch2885]

One of the best antenna videos I've seen.

[@HR4NT]

Thank you very much! I wanted to be thorough so there are no questions on how to build it! Thanks for the comment and for watching! 73!!!

[@kerwinrogers5590]

Impressive! I'm ordering one of the Comet GP-9 antenna to use on a Yaesu FTM6000 mobile radio. Thanks for this video.

[@HR4NT]

It is a monster antenna, but I am sure you will love it once you have it up and running. Good luck to you! Thanks for watching. 73!

[@marc2933]

Thanks for the video. Your instructions saved me a lot of frustration. The written instructions that come with the antenna are terrible! Another tip - The antenna wire within the segments was too deep for me to reach even with a needle nose pliers. I mad a "J" hook out of some solid gauge wire and used that to pull it through. Also found a bad solder joint in the antenna base that I had to repair. Antenna was new out of the box with a high swr. Fixing that solder joint solved the problem.

[@HR4NT]

I'm glad my video helped. Comet antennas are hit or miss sometimes and it is a good thing you checked your connections BEFORE you put it up and turned it on. So glad it worked out for you. Enjoy the antenna and make those contacts. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@davequick3373]

Great video… you are a natural. Hope you do a video of the new 2 meter rig when you get it! 73

[@HR4NT]

Actually if I remember in this video, I did a short review of it. Very solid radio, great power at 80W and simple to use. I don't do much on 70CM so not having it doesn't make me feel left out...LOL Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!!

[@shauno2006]

Great review, I really like the light for your pocket. Also XYZ, N4ORR.

[@HR4NT]

Thank you very much! 73!

[@pnowikow]

Just added this setup to my wish list

[@HR4NT]

You will be very happy with it! Mine still works fine to this day. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@ferdinandwp4rjl377]

Great job SCOTT, like always. Keep it up!

[@HR4NT]

Thanks! Will do! 73!

[@COUREURSdesBOIS88]

Outstanding video! Going to purchase the same one to help my packet station! Thanks for the well made tutorial!

[@HR4NT]

Glad it was helpful! I think you will be very happy with that GP-9. After all the4se months of owning it , it still works perfectly and reached out! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@patriayvida4209]

WOW!!! 80 WATTS ON A GP-9 ???? I BET YOU WERE HEARD MILES AWAY!!!! WHAT A PITY YOU DIDN'T SHOW US THE FINAL RESULTS AND SOME OF THOSE CONTACTS.... I HAVE THE GP-3 AND AN ALINCO WITH 85 WATTS, AND BELIEVE ME I'M SUPER IMPRESSED HOW FAR I CAN COMUNICATE... I HEAR REPEATERS I NEVER HEARD BEFORE AND I GET GREAT SIGNAL REPORTS. P/S: I LIVE ON THE FITH FLOOR OF A BUILDING WHERE "ANTENNAS ARE PROHIBITED" SO I HAVE MY GP-3 BACK IN THE BALCONY... I'VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT GETTING THE GP-9.... BUT IT'S SOOOO HUGE. SO ANY WAYS, ENJOY YOURS AND THANKS FOR THE VIDEO. VERY APPRECIATED AND HELPFUL. 73S FROM KJ4BGW !!!

[@HR4NT]

I am glad you enjoyed the video. The GP-9 is massive and may not work in the application you have your current antenna...and you really can't hide it...LOL Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@FreemanWithrow]

Great video ! Just some info I switched from rg8x coax to lmr400 for 2m and 440 and it made a huge difference. Had alot of loss with the smaller coax for HF it's fine but not 2m

[@HR4NT]

My next plan is to do a coax upgrade. The stuff I have on the antenna now is something I found last year when I was new to radio and didn't know any better. No real complaints with it, but I know it could be better. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@Blue-Collar-Radio]

🤣 hiding the GP9 from HOA! I have a Yaesu 2980r hooked to my GP9 also. I love them both. The 2980 is a beast of a radio. A big heat sink with a VFO! Great video, 73!

[@HR4NT]

Yeah it really is! I am surprised that there aren't more radios with an 80 watt option. This one is affordable, built tough and works...all good thing to me! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@brentjohnson6654]

Another fine video! Great job with the tape! I was laughing as you were on the ladder and thought about those meme’s “Why Women Live Longer than Men”. No offense, I am a climber too! I have wondered about the GP9, so thanks for the video showing it getting put together and used. All the best!

[@HR4NT]

LOL...yeah that was a bit sketchy...the only reason I pulled it off was no wind and the antenna is about 6lbs when assembled. Believe me, I thought the same thing. That GP-9 is fantastic so far. Can't wait to use it more. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@brentjohnson6654]

@@HR4NT haha glad you didn’t take me for a Karen there. Wasn’t trying to tell you what to do just enjoying the experience vicariously with you. I have a Ed Fong J-pole that I am going to mount on my tower (it replaces the LMR400 line that was being used by my cellular internet. We have changed to a fiber internet in the country. Imagine going from 0.5Mb/s to 233Mb/s and let’s not talk about jitter (250ms to less than 1ms).

[@codybooth]

I wish this video was out when I bought my gp6, took me a week to figure out I had to lightly bang the antenna on a bench to get the wire out!!!

[@HR4NT]

It's always good to have hacks available to make life easier sometimes...lol Thank you for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@radiotests]

good video for a budget setup on a superior radio.

[@HR4NT]

Thank you! Really enjoying it at the moment! Thanks for the comment. 73!!

[@ko4otv43]

I have the 2980 in my truck. Such a great performer! I have a diamond nr770 on an NMO lip mount. I just wish it were a duel band. Other than that no complaints.

[@HR4NT]

Yeah I am right there with you...I also wish this was a dual band rig, but I have yet to make any contacts on UHF. Still a fantastic radio! Thanks for the comment and for watching...73!!

[@eddieslittlestack7919]

Good video friend. Thumbs up! I too have to FT2980, really like it. Also easy to program by hand.

[@HR4NT]

Thank you very much! I agree it is a simple yet fantastic radio! Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@Brenda-jf2pe]

I got the Alinco 735t it does 50 watts good base station! I have a 5 foot Comit, would love the gp9 but the vent stock mount I have I don’t think it could handle the wind load. 73 KJ7TBR

[@HR4NT]

Very cool! What you have now will probably be fine. 50 watts is a good amount of power. Just keep in mind the higher up your antenna is (VHF/UHF), the longer distance and better RX & TX you will have. Play with what you have for now, when the time is right, you will most likely know what you want to upgrade "if" you decide to so so. Best of luck! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@BBaldwin]

I’ve got the 2980 in my truck. It’s a beast.

[@HR4NT]

It sure is!! Having 80 watts instead of 50 makes a difference. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@philabernathy1868]

Thanks for making and posting this. I live in a mountainous area and I feel that too high of gain horizontally may limit my signal up the sides or down the valleys.

[@HR4NT]

I hope the video helps and that you can get back on the air! Thanks for watching and for the comment., 73!

[@ikkeikke4561]

Gp-6 is better for that

[@30pvfd]

Simple s good just bought one in mail now thanks for review

[@HR4NT]

Hope you like it! It really is a fantastic antenna and in my opinion, one that anyone using 2m & 70CM should have in their arsenal if conditions allow for it. It is such a good performer!!! Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!!

[@30pvfd]

Actually got two 2980s now one for a base with a j pole 20 ft in air it’s incredible can hit repeaters 60 mi away!! The other is in truck as mobile with a browning mag mount thanks for the videos! Ps gigs had matching pwr supply for base that was plug and play

[@JoeFramo-uw9fp]

Most importantly you need to run to LMR 400 if you want a really good signal no loss LMR 400 is the way to go

[@robertjeffery3237]

Great video. I have a GP-89 that I need to assemble, I hope it is the same...

[@HR4NT]

I think it will be very similar. Best of luck! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@kg5nub]

You should put a couple of zip ties at the bottom of the mast to keep the stress off the connector, I do when I put one up...

[@HR4NT]

I actually have 4-5 zip ties holding everything together in conjunction with the brackets. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@lephotographinc]

Great video. Thanks W5ZM

[@HR4NT]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@moccasin]

An observation from an old tower dawg. I noticed a couple of things done in the assembling of the Comet dual band antenna. A couple where address is earlier comments such as how to best wrap electrical tape from bottom to top. The only thing I would add to that is to not stretch the tape to break it. This would likely be less of an issue when covered with a second material such as coax wrap. When electrical tape is stretched, the sun will heat it and the glue will allow it to slide and let the end peel up. Stretching it is OK but allow the last couple of inches to relax and cut it. The other issue I did not see in the comments is the paint. Carbon black is used in many paints to make it black, imaging that? As carbon is somewhat conductive, it can and does, at some higher frequencies, attenuation RF signals, however, It may be negligible at 2 meters. W4QJP

[@HR4NT]

Thank you for those observations. I agree that I should not have stretched the tape. Note to self for next time. LOL As for the paint, there might be conductive materials in them, but this has not affected the performance in my antenna so far as I can tell. Pushing those 80 watts I was able to reach out over 100 miles on simplex a couple weeks ago which I was ecstatic about! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@moccasin]

I have used the Diamond antennas for years, both mono and dual band for 1.25 meters and 70 centimeters, each a copy of the other, as best I can tell. I in fact just ordered a replacement for the dual brander on my 70 foot tower. I don’t want to climb it more than one time so I will have everything to replace everything on the day I check it out. I'll be 75 on the 15th. You are not the only one to paint an antenna as you will see in the HOAs. Best to you and yours. W4QJP

[@ironheadbill]

i have experience with carbon black in powder form, it's nasty stuff, and it plays hell with RFID, I was an electronic technician and learned quickly to hate the stuff. Fun fact, it's one of many chemicals used in making Goodyear tires.

[@Ubehealed]

good job Brother ;-)

[@HR4NT]

I appreciate that. Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@w5licanthony66]

Great clip. I am glad you got one of those antennas. I have been happy with mine for a while. Talk to you later. 73 buddy

[@HR4NT]

Thanks 👍I like it so far. Thanks for watching..73!

[@kenfloe3536]

At minute 11:31….. That’s what she said.😂. Excellent video by the way.

[@HR4NT]

LOL...glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@randallbarton1114]

great video...... but the one thing that jumped out at me was when you hooked that cheap Truck stop gray coax cable to it. Again other than that a great video my friend....... KD9SHA

[@HR4NT]

That cable is temporary as it was the first coax I purchased before I knew there was a difference. However, for VHF/UHF it seems to be working fine. If and or when it dies on me, I will replace it with much higher quality coax. Thank for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@DB-ml1ns]

Awesome video thanks for all of the detail!

[@HR4NT]

Glad it was helpful! I try to be as detailed as possible. Sometimes that makes for a longer video, but at least you are not left with questions. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@Sidmi5utc]

Looks like you wrapped from the top down even though you said down up ?? Always wrap from below to upwards and that means your overlaps will be sealed from rain running down the antenna. A single loop on the coax taped to your pole at the bottom of the antenna acts as a strain relief so the weight of your coax isn't pulling all the way down to ground. Camouflage is a cool idea, well done. I have the same Yaesu radio.

[@HR4NT]

I am glad you enjoyed the video. I don't remember if I wrapped bottom to top or the other way...LOL Thanks for the tip. The camo paint has been working just fine since the video. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@HamRadioQso]

I have the 2980 on a nice beam. But I’m also looking to get this antenna for the radio and put in a switch.

[@HR4NT]

That can be a cool idea! Let me know what you end up doing! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@Tank6883]

Really good video. Nice radio. I was worried that the metallic additives they sometimes put in paint would affect your swr. Clearly it's not an issue. I too live in an HOA and this has given me a few ideas. Thanks.

[@HR4NT]

I think that as long as you use flat paints and not metallic or similar, you are probably ok. I am happy with the performance I am getting out of this so far and I tried on simplex and reached across the city. Thanks for watching! 73!

[@robertogrady8764]

I would have used some of that grease on the coax at the end, and spot-tie over the end of the tape, that’s were it will come off in a year to so.

[@HR4NT]

You are spot on. I went back and did exactly that to add a second layer of protection to the connection. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@trumbulldefensellc6487]

Post a picture of how you have the antenna pole secured to the ground. 👍

[@HR4NT]

To secure that pole to the ground I did two things. As you see in the video I have a bracket that I attached to the eaves of my roof on my garage. At the ground level, I went to Home Depot and in the masonry section I picked up a solid metal masonry pole I am guessing it is about 1/2 inch thick or better and drove that into the ground leaving about half of the pole above ground that I slid the fence top rail I am using as a antenna mount and called it done. Works fine and hasn't moved a bit in years. I hope this better helps explain what I did. Here is the link to that stake I used: www.homedepot.com/p/Grip-Rite-3-4-in-x-36-in-Round-Stake-STKR36/202090777 Thanks for the question and for watching. 73!

[@ericlytle7289]

@@HR4NT Thanks brother. Much appreciated. 73! KC8NLT.

[@georgemullin7772]

Exalant video I'm thinken of getting a 2980 I jus have a mag mount right now

[@HR4NT]

That 2980 is a fantastic little radio...cheap, built like a tank and 80 watts...what's not to like? LOL Good luck Thanks for the comment and for watching...73!!

[@georgemullin7772]

Vary good video I'm more than pleased thank's again.

[@HR4NT]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment and for watching...73!!

[@bovineexcrement8635]

Love my ft-2980 use at 30 watts 99% of the time. But you missed one of the best features is it does Morse code to help you learn

[@HR4NT]

Wait...what? Now I have to look into that!!! Thanks for the info and for watching. 73!

[@JoeFramo-uw9fp]

Don't be paranoid it's Overkill GP 9 is designed to keep water out that's why it cost $200 🤗

[@harlanhair9893]

Very helpful!

[@HR4NT]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@anthonymarino4260]

great vid. thanks

[@HR4NT]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@lonnielewis6800]

What is the mast you’re using and how long is it? As always, love your detailed videos. Thanks

[@HR4NT]

The mast is actually chain link fence top rail form home depot. Cheap, strong and easy to setup in minutes. I think the are 10 foot sections each giving me a starting height of 20 feet for that antenna. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@lonnielewis6800]

Nice, I may have a couple more antenna questions before this is over. Not many willing Elmers around me. Thanks and really enjoy your videos.

[@africantwin173]

I got 2 of these. 1 for APRS igate and 1 for local Packet Radio. If Yaesu made a UHF 2980 version with data port, i would be very happy.

[@HR4NT]

Yeah that could be kinda cool...I wonder why they make VHF only, but not a UHF only except that maybe there is enough activity on the VHF bands to justify a radio dedicated to that alone. LOVE my GP-9!!! Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73

[@davidboyd7773]

I should start this off with, I have questions and comments. #1 that antenna is ridiculously large, I think it's bigger than the mast it's on. #2 great video. #3 when you're sealing up the various connections on the antenna what would your opinion be on using shrink tubing? #4 when you were putting the antenna together did you realize your zipper was down?

[@HR4NT]

Hi David! Thanks for reaching out! The antenna is large, but has fantastic gain at 9.5 - 11 db!!! Thanks for watching the video. I am glad you enjoyed it! You "can: use shrink tubing, but I think it would be a little bit of a pain. The coax wrap tape in addition to the electrical tape really seals everything up as moisture is a bad thing with connections in ham radio. And finally, the elephant in the room...I realized it after the video came out and now we laugh it off as bonus footage...LOL Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@davidboyd7773]

@@HR4NT bonus footage I love it Lol 😂😂😂. It is good to be able to laugh even if it's at yourself. 73 we will catch you on the air. KJ7WWC/ WRJF717.

[@claytonlaflamme1955]

Thanks for great video. That the same radio,I have. 73 Va3clf

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for watching! It really is a cool little radio. 73!

[@robertogrady8764]

Great job, KO4ZCJ

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@AllanBProductions]

What kind of pole/mast are you using to raise the antenna? Nice video.

[@HR4NT]

I am using chain link fence top rails from Home Depot. They are 10 foot sections, cheap and sturdy. Add a screw for each connected section and you are good to go. Thanks for the question and for watching. 73!

[@pa-kuasummitnj8922]

Super video, great radio, thsnk you!

[@HR4NT]

Glad you liked it! So far so good on the equipment from this video...everything is working very well and I have been able to reach much further than before due to both items. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@davez2989]

Not trying to be rude or anything but if you follow the directions and join the bottom to the mid section and then mid section to the top section, sort of like a 3 part fake Christmas tree.. The string method you show isn't needed. Once you join the lower to the mid section and nest it the inner antenna wire actually gets pushed out enough to make the top to mid section connection without have to pull anything with the string I do find it amazing how the small bag ends up with a 17 foot antenna when your done. Got my antenna up in the air last night just need to wire it all up now :)

[@HR4NT]

I appreciate the tip, but nowhere in the instructions did it even mention that as an option. Other video tutorials that I saw showed a similar method to mine and never mentioned that. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@tysonwetzel8092]

I enjoyed the vid, but that coax though.... LMR400 please.

[@HR4NT]

Glad you enjoyed the video. That coax I have seems to be working perfectly so far. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@buckbulkley2179]

Wow!

[@HR4NT]

Nice huh? LOL 73!

[@JohnyMac-tb6ms]

What supporting pole did you use for your antenna. It looked pretty sturdy so I am not thinking PVC. I am going to install a Comet GP-6 shortly so looking for suggestion on extension pole. Thanks. 73 & God Bless JohnyMac KC1FWU

[@HR4NT]

I used chain link fence top rail form Home Depot. They come in 10 foot section, they're cheap and they are strong. I hope this helps. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73! Here is the link: www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-Chain-Link-Fence-1-3-8-in-Diameter-x-10-ft-Long-17-Gauge-Thick-Galvanized-Steel-Top-Rail-Post-328913DPTEB/312373065

[@JohnyMac-tb6ms]

@@HR4NT Thank you sir! 73 & God Bless

[@darrellwofford3297]

I would have tape the coax with a loop in it to the pole so it wouldn't have a lot of tension on the coax

[@HR4NT]

It's bee up almost a year and no issues so far, but thank you for the suggestion! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@pogtv841]

very nice!!!!

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@mattlaster8463]

so this would be a great setup for a beginning tech?

[@HR4NT]

I would think so because it is a very good antenna (if you have the room to put it up) and powerful @8.5dB gain. Pair it up with the Yaesu 2980 pushing 80 watts and you are good to go. It is a dual band antenna so it will do UHF as well, so if you want that feature, you might want to consider a different radio as the 2980 is VHF only. I hope this helps. Hit me up through my website if you have any other questions. Always glad to help. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@iplayguitar4u]

The coax wrap should have been put on first, then the electric tape. The wrap should always begin low and work your way up, just like shingles on a roof. Otherwise, great job... this antenna seems to be better than the Diamond X510.

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for the tips! This has been a very well performing antenna for me and I have no regrets on the purchase. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@Yelnats101]

how did the antenna do with high wind mounted like that? i have the Diamond f23 ordered. its 15 feet long , it's just like that antenna. Also my mounted setup is identical to yours. i have the same radio

[@HR4NT]

It seems to be doing just fine. I have had zero issues and with that top rail being mounted to my garage eaves it makes for a study setup. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@ipodbuff]

Hey 👋 I was wondering if you can make a video you testing out and installing the Premium KB9VBR J-Pole Base Antenna 2 meter dual band amateur ham radio scanner🎉🎉 I just recently made my own and I am using it for my house base antenna 🎉🎉. Still waiting on some coax to come in. 😊😊😊

[@HR4NT]

I can definitely look into and see what I can do. I have sooo many antennas now...LOL Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@mashakamakarov4296]

Hey question do you have to ground this antenna if so to base or direct from the antenna?

[@HR4NT]

I don't bother with grounding my antennas. If I ground anything it will be at my radio. When I have a storm coming, I unplug everything negating the need to ground. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@radiotests]

Hey, just an idea if you could put the mfgr supplied Near field propagation and SWR tests. In really interested what the patterns and takeoff angle is. So many advantages to a vertical in noisy rfi and local transmit versus the directivity of a beam/yagi for DX and far off repeaters. I would be fascinated by what the longest contact you log with this great combo.

[@HR4NT]

Hi Craig! They may have that data on the manufacturer's website if you are interested in the patterns and so forth. As far as my longest contact, when we ran out propagation exercise, the longest contact I was able to make (so far) is just over 35 miles. I know I can make it reach a lot further in the right conditions. I need to get on 146.52 and see if I can get better distance on a day when propagation is really good. Thank you for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@billgardner6516]

I have a GP-9 yet to be installed. What did you use for the antenna mast?

[@HR4NT]

I went to Home Depot and bought chain link fence top rail. It's cheap, interlocks with each other and comes in 10 foot lengths. Still works beautifully to this day. I hope this helps. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@prepperdan]

its funny because its the exact same green plastic bag my tiny 13 inch nagoya baofeng antenna came in but yours is comically huge lol

[@HR4NT]

Hey as long as it works...right? Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@ivrsn_1569]

Hey man, I’ve been comparing this radio with icom 2300h, from your own point, which one you’ll recommend?

[@HR4NT]

They are very similar except the Icom is only 65 watts and the Yaesu is 80. So I think power and brand are the only things you need to consider. I think you could be fine with either one. I hope this helps. Thanks for the comment and for watching., 73!

[@heikopinero6875]

Great video. Are you using anything at the base of the antenna post to keep it secure. Kinda new to ham radios, looks like the radio is on an auto tuner, is it connected to your radio? Thanks

[@HR4NT]

Thanks for the comment. I have a 4' steak buried halfway in the ground that deep the ground that the Pole is sitting on before it is attached to the side of the house. The antenna tuner is not hooked up to the 2 m 440 and 10 that is only hooked up to HF but that was before I learned about resonant antennas like the dx commander classic. Thanks for watching. 73

[@wivm1014]

What did you use for antenna mast??? Seems very strong.

[@HR4NT]

I am using chain link fence top rails from home depot. Strong metal and easy to attach. Hope this helps. Thanks for the comment an for watching. 73!

[@223Nebraska]

😎 👍

[@familiahb9178]

I was wondering is there any isolation in terms of radiation if you paint the antenna? Doesnt it affect the power of transmission?

[@HR4NT]

The paint used had no metallic components in it and I have not seen any performance issues with it since I bought it. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@OLDMANGAMING1970]

Good job, but that coax was killing me. You need LMR 400 at a minimum.

[@HR4NT]

Yeah maybe down the road I will, but for now it works just fine and hasn't filed me in over a year. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@kd5you1]

One ham friend of mine who is now SK once told me that he had to weld the sections of antenna at the joint because over time the screws will come loose. I was wondering if you had any issues with the screws coming loose or hearing any noise if they were loose. His was a GP6. I have two GP3 antennas in the attic above the second floor, and they work pretty well. 73 KD5YOU

[@HR4NT]

To date I have not had a single issue with at antenna. If you had a fear of screws coming loose, maybe try a little dab of blue locktite on the threads before tightening them. I cannot imagine a situation where the screws would be in a position to come lose in the first place. I hope this helps. Thanks for the comment and for watching!!! 73!!

[@kd5you1]

@@HR4NT Ok thanks. I think it might have something to do with high winds not necessarily exceeding the maximum wind speed that the antenna can withstand. I'll ask tonight during our local net to see if anyone has had a similar issue. 73 KD5YOU

[@Richard-N8HVC]

What mast are you using and how is it installed? Great video, thanks!!

[@richardsmith9634]

Did you end up adjusting the mic gain ? If so by how much?

[@HR4NT]

I did not. Turns out the other guy was the one with the issue. Everyone else I have been talking to has never mentioned a thing about my mic being too hot. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@RandomTechWZ]

What kind of antenna mast is that?

[@HR4NT]

That is actually chain link fence top rail form Home Depot. Very strong and cheap. This setup is still working right now. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!!

[@BlackHamRadioUniversity]

Does this antenna have to be a specific height? Can I sit it on a 5ft tripod next to my house?

[@HR4NT]

You can have it up as high as you want, however, if using simplex, height is key to reach out further. I have mine up 25 feet becasue we do a simplex net and I need to be able to reach out 30-40 miles. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching and for the comment! 73!!

[@BlackHamRadioUniversity]

@@HR4NT So when you say you have yours is up 25ft do you mean 25ft from the ground or do you mean it is 25ft up from where the antenna starts? Also ,will trees around the antenna hinder the signal and distance?

[@HR4NT]

@@BlackHamRadioUniversity I have a 25 foot pole stuck in the ground and the GP9 is attached to that pole. Trees will play a small part in interference, but unless you are surrounded by a thick forest, I wouldn't worry too much about it. My antennas are right next to a huge oak tree (maybe about 20 feet away) and I do just fine. Hope this helps! 73!!

[@davidgoodrich1381]

Make sure you grease the little ring that covers the pl259 will corrode and you won't be able to get to the coax connector without modification 73 KE4GBH

[@HR4NT]

Absolutely. I always make sure I have that with my connections just because of the humidity here. Thank for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@timcravey6781]

What coax are you using?

[@HR4NT]

On the GP-9 I am embarrassed to admit I am using some cheap RG8X I bought when I first became a ham, but it works and hasn't failed me yet. Planning on upgrading to better quality coax soon. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!!

[@tmiller9099]

How many Amps does it draw from your supply at 80 W power out?

[@HR4NT]

The specs for the Diamond GZV-4000 states that it is 40 amps at 15 watts. Not sure if that helps you out. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@tmiller9099]

Thank you for the reply. Sorry for not being clear but I was simply wondering how many amps the Yaesu radio draws when set to full power? I have a 15 Amp power supply in my shack but am not sure if it’s big enough for that radio.

[@AJunior1969]

they say that carbon interferes with irradiation, does this ink have no carbon? Sorry for my question, I don't understand English very well, what's the gain? thanks from PS8AJR - Ary Junior - Brazil

[@HR4NT]

Hi Ary, the carbon does not interfere with the antenna and it has performed very well since I built it. The gain of this antenna is around 8.5dB. Thanks for watching and for the question! 73!!

[@JoeFramo-uw9fp]

Yes you got to go to menu 17 I think turn your mic gain up to nine it'll be nice and full and loud yeah buddy Go to😂 Mike gain setting I think it's 17

[@milwman1958]

KF0HRF I have the 2980 but can only put an antenna in my window so running a DIY dipole it hits the repeater fine but in 3 months no ones on 146.250.

[@HR4NT]

Did you mean 146.520? If you are trying the main 2m frequency, it is .520. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73

[@bovineexcrement8635]

Tram 1159-WB is a great antenna for the ft-2980 no ground plane necessary and full range 136-174. And I've had some luck with the roll-up J pole by N9TAX on ebay. Hope that helps

[@mikealphacharlie2183]

I love this radio.. Is this china made or japan.?

[@HR4NT]

It is a Yaesu, so I assume it is Japan. Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@mikealphacharlie2183]

@@HR4NT thanks 73

[@kellytaylor3915]

There so many better choices for feed line. RG8X is almost the worst. Lmr 400 or LMR 600 are way better the RG8X on 2m and 70cm

[@HR4NT]

I understand that, however that is all i have at the moment and it seems to work fine. Reaching out 35 miles on simplex . Thanks for watching and for the comment. 73!

[@MrMambasnake]

Thanks for the vid Scott. Now that you've had it for a while, what's been your furthest contact? I have a Diamond X300A @ 60' but still way short of the urban repeaters that I'd like to reach from our small town. Even my Diamond 10 element yagi down below it comes up short of the 60-ish miles needed. I'm dithering between replacing the 300 with a X510 or the GP-9 and then flip'n the yagi horizontal for SSB.

[@HR4NT]

So far I think my farthest distance QSO was about 35 miles. I really need to test this when the propagation is good in my area and see if I can reach out a greater distance. With your X300 you are getting an average of 6.5db on VHF and 9.0db on UHF. With the GP-9 that would increase to 8.5db on vhf and 11.9db on UHF. So that may be a substantial gain with the GP-9 over your current antenna and the X510. Height and gain are going to be key if you are far away or in a geographical area that may block line of sight. I hope this helps a bit. Keep in touch. I would be interested in hearing the outcome and success story! Thank you very much for the comment and for watching. 73!

[@MrMambasnake]

@@HR4NT Thanks for the quick reply, really appreciate that you keep in contact with your viewers and I admire the professionalism of your channel content. I'm likely chasing smoke without a quad yagi stack. My A144S10's gain is supposedly 11.6db and in ideal conditions I hit a desired 60mi distant repeater one time (over 6mo) for a short QSO. Which is a shame, since moving out of the big city left behind several 2m ham friends tho' we keep in contact via DMR. Most likely I'll replace the X300 with a GP-9 next year for broader area simplex coverage and keep the yagi for sideband. 73

[@grahamgault8010]

why not paint the bottom of the antenna ?. and it was a waist of zip ties , they would be better used on your coax rather than the alloy brackets .

[@HR4NT]

I did not paint the bottom of the antenna in the event that I had to do maintenance, I did not want to fight the paint affecting the threads and other parts of the antenna to get it back apart. The zip ties were just to add additional support in case of high winds. It may be a little overkill, but it seems to be working since I shot the video. Thanks for the comment and for watching. 73!