The Gabil GRA-7350T Antenna

[@HOAHamRadio]

You know I'm a fan! Small, light, effective, and not to painful on the wallet.

[@temporarilyoffline]

The "effective" is the best part! I want to upgrade to the etched version.

[@TK4619]

Got this antenna along with the seperate tripod. I use it for POTA all the time with my 706MKIIG , setup using 2 alligator clips with 5 6ft radials on each, I can tune it to a 1.1 1.2 swr on all the bands it says it works, I have gotten 59 reports from my home in NY to Texas and The United Kingdom. Very happy with its performance, it blows comet's toybox antenna out of the water.

[@temporarilyoffline]

I much prefer this over the toy box.

[@Aimsport-video]

Laser engraved... is great. My sticker came of almost immediately. In a wind though, Gabil SWR was quite variable while the JPC-12's was rock solid. High Q is only a compromise when you can't tune it easily. Then it's an advantage due to efficiency and likely lower SWR.

[@temporarilyoffline]

When my sticker goes (or maybe sooner) I might file some marks on the shaft for reference... it's not 100% needed, but it's nice to have.

[@Aimsport-video]

@@temporarilyoffline then when you move the antenna over different dirt… all those can shift off the engraving triggering OCD. 😂

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@Aimsport-video I hear ya! I'd do it like they did - 1 mark every inch just so I'd get a feel for how far I'm moving it. No way I'd mark it for "20m" since its a highly portable antenna.

[@PortableRadio]

@@Aimsport-video if you use more but shorter radials, the difference of environment is actually pretty small.

[@andrewgilbertson4226]

@@PortableRadioFor 6-20m mine likes 10x 5m radials, well under 2 for the whole band. For 40 4x5m radials work best, still under 2 for the whole band. 80m it’s 4x 5m, and it is only under 2 for half the band. I will happily take that Q!

[@W9HJBill]

That antenna, and especially the tripod, are incredible. I love mine for POTA.

[@temporarilyoffline]

It's a fast POTA setup - especially if you learn how to tune by ear!

[@rlm975]

I have started working with my local ARES group and am getting setup for field operations. Your videos covering these type antennas have been super helpful. You make good, clear videos that address the product.

[@temporarilyoffline]

Thank you! I'm glad they help!

[@PortableRadio]

Thanks a lot for your great video! I use this antenna for summits with very limited space. Better to have an antenna than none. I don't use the ruler, but mark the bands with a waterproof pen. The antenna is sold in Europe under different brand names, but is manufactured in Taiwan. After adding some more parts for easy deployment, I tested this antenna extensively and when I had enough space, I compared it with my 20m long EFHW. I just have to cut and edit the video to show the whole setup, hopefully this will happen before my holidays 😉 73 Stephan

[@temporarilyoffline]

I'd be interested with the 20m EFHW comparison for sure! Looking forward to it.

[@PortableRadio]

@@temporarilyoffline I just published the video. The title is 'Vertical Antenna for Tight Spaces'. 73 Stephan

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@PortableRadio in the queue!

[@Sparkfly88]

Each time I see you use this little guy it makes me resume the hunt for the other model of this antenna with the 2 piece whip! GRA-7350M

[@temporarilyoffline]

I've seen that version, would be a lot better for leaving on the car and driving around town!

[@don_n5skt]

I have also deployed this antenna in the backyard and left it up for 2 months. It worked well and still works well. I really like the design and the tripod.

[@temporarilyoffline]

rusty at all?

[@don_n5skt]

@@temporarilyoffline Not a bit. But your assuming it rained during that time which I can't recall.

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@don_n5skt I can accept that!

[@1polonium210]

Got mine today. Look forward to breaking it in tomorrow! Very informative video! I bought this antenna because I am most interested in portability. Although I have a nice Ham shack at the house, I prefer to operate from local, state, and national parks. I have bought and built other antennas, but I really like the design and ease with which the 7350TC can be deployed. I'll know a LOT more about it after tomorrow!

[@temporarilyoffline]

Have fun! I really enjoy mine.

[@betterbprepared]

Great review of the GRA-7350T antenna. I have been looking at this antenna for awhile now and really haven't heard anybody tear it apart. Of course it is a compromised antenna, look at its size. I think the compact size with the lower price tag would make this a contender for portable operations. Unfortunately, I am not at the point of being able to have multiple antennas for portable operations. I've been looking at the Buddistick pro, but I'm leaning more towards the Wolf River Coil. Every now and then this antenna will pop into the mix just because of the performance that you get in such a small package. Thanks for the great review.

[@temporarilyoffline]

You're welcome! I need to find a good carrying case for it next... maybe a tool-roll

[@davidbinkowski4825]

I bought this antenna, except in the laser engraved, and more ubiquitous connection style (3/8 24 thread). I almost bought the default version with the PL-259 on the antenna itself but I did not relish the idea of buying the only vertical portable antenna with that style of connector on it (even though there's an adapter you could get to go to 3/8". then got a Super-Antenna tripod for it that has the 3/8 connector. I made banana plug radials (3 per plug) and connected 2 banana jacks (spade connection) to the tripod. I also made a ground spike using that $12-ish mirror mount and a long metal tent spike. Also connected ring terminals to that which have banana jacks soldered onto them to accept the same radials. I could add many more radial adapters to each if I really wanted to but I'm going to start with 2 sets of 3 (6 radials).

[@temporarilyoffline]

Its really versatile and works well, sounds like you did something very similar to what I did but with different parts - This is the way!

[@Bill-HRT]

He said, "and it's just fine." 'Nuf said, lol. You know i'm already sold! Nice video, TO. 73 de K0WHW Bill

[@temporarilyoffline]

You got that right!

[@halchita8701]

great video and great antenna!

[@temporarilyoffline]

Thanks! I've used it a few times and I've been happy with it.

[@dienadel30]

I have a GRA -1900T works great for 80M up and I use a single counterpoise using less than 1/4 wave length formula in the instructions 180 \ MHZ then I use the whip to fine tune where res is in the band but the antenna has great bandwidth once the counterpoise is setup and elevated.

[@temporarilyoffline]

These antennas are fun when you can "get" how they work, if not, its total frustration. I have tried others, but they require huge counterpoise wires or very very tall verticals and still don't work well...this one actually works and its a good one!

[@dienadel30]

@@temporarilyoffline Yeah you cost me more money first the X6100 now this lol Though I am really excited to get the little antenna tripod must missed it or didn't have a purpose in mind I do now though VHF/UHF BBS's in my area ! Great stuff ! KC3VPY 73

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@dienadel30 Man, you're all set! Its gonna happen! Tripod Link: amzn.to/3On0KO0 Tripod Video (older version of the tripod, new version is even better) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYnNe6OthsqBftU You're going to be all set... the X6100 won't do VHF/UHF though, so you'll need something for that. Currently I'm really looking at: www.radioddity.com/products/radioddity-db25d?aic=KVRB7VP with an AIOC cable - should work fine, but I need to test it. Its coming!

[@dienadel30]

I tested the Antenna today on my car worked out great first using the loudest radio noise rough tune then one sweep then fine tune and it got me to about 1.25 - 1.50 SWR using a mag mount. I am using the tripod for a VHF antenna so I can connect to local BBSes. :)

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@dienadel30 nice, I need to find some packet radio BBSs!

[@KU9L]

I got great POTA results by putting the tripod legs flat level on a BBQ grill in the day use area at a state park, then installing just one quarter-wave radial horizontal per band suspended by a fiberglass electric fence state to be horizontal. Quick, easy, & repeatable, especially for those WMAs or SWAs that have lots of waterfowl & deer flies that like to eat POTA hams, lol.

[@temporarilyoffline]

That's a great deployment method! I love those step-in posts.

[@DonzLockz]

Not bad at all for a tiny portable HF Qtenna. :)

[@temporarilyoffline]

Yes indeed!

[@AG4KN]

With the "Super Antenna" (MP1), I adjusted the antenna length to the highest band noise, checked that the swr was tolerable, and got on the air. I appreciate using repeatable methods (like a tape measure) and recording antenna values. Nice job! DE AG4KN - John

[@temporarilyoffline]

I'll have another video showing the by-ear method coming soon. Its a fun antenna!

[@HamRadioA2Z]

Nice demo and review Steve.

[@temporarilyoffline]

Thank you!

[@slick8086]

The tripod REALLY makes this antenna better.

[@temporarilyoffline]

TSA Approved! I'm a big fan of that tripod!

[@Goosey816]

What kind of Coax and length did you use for this video? Needing something to take to a park with me and this looks flexible enough

[@temporarilyoffline]

About 50ft of RG58 - it's what I had handy and it coils up nice!

[@axemanarbor]

Exactly what I needed to see . Thanks.

[@temporarilyoffline]

Glad it helped

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

For Lower HF I suggest a old Speaker wire and a tuner or Matchbox. However for 10 /11 or higher meters this antenna seems cool gadget

[@temporarilyoffline]

Agreed - but its very hard for me to pack that in a suitcase and fly to Arizona.

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

@@temporarilyoffline Haha I believe that!

[@DirtyPlumbus]

Great combination.

[@temporarilyoffline]

I really like the setup!

[@Martin_Lynch]

Excellent presentation style. Keep up the good work. 73 de G2ML

[@temporarilyoffline]

Thank you very much!

[@jlca320]

I would like to see a video which compares WRC , Super Antenna and the new chameleon antenna. It would be nice to see how these Vertical antennas sack up against each other. 73s

[@temporarilyoffline]

I'll see what I can do!

[@forgetyourlife]

My antenna attachment threads were 10x1..Sent it back next day.

[@temporarilyoffline]

That's a very popular antenna size as well - there are M10 to 3/8ths adapters as a result - like all things ham radio, there are no standards!

[@forgetyourlife]

@@temporarilyoffline of course there are adapters and other hodgepodgery. No thanks.

[@HamRadioDX]

Very interesting antenna. Thanks TO, as always top notch stuff.

[@temporarilyoffline]

High Praise for His Most Awesome!

[@victorcharlie7491]

How convenient, good aesthetics as well great video tnx!

[@temporarilyoffline]

Glad you like it!

[@Rusted_Link]

Would you say that if I already have a CHA TDL that this $140 would be well spent? When I get my retribution from the Amazonians from the poor purchase decision of the Comet Toy Box junk antenna I may purchase this one. PS I already have the Gabil Tri-Pod Swiss Army Knife doodad thingy. I love that thing!

[@temporarilyoffline]

This antenna packs up smaller and may not get out as well as the TDL. I love the TDL for how obnoxious it is when setup. Brings a lot of attention.

[@Rusted_Link]

I reckon I'll try it. The Amazonians love giving me my money back. @@temporarilyoffline

[@barrykery1175]

Compromise? Yes, but it's still a really neat and well designed antenna. It would make for a nice table top antenna if needed. I use the PAC-12 ground mounted vertical antenna, but for backpacking I think the antenna you just demonstrated is great. I may just get one? Barry, KU3X

[@temporarilyoffline]

I have the PAC-12 and I like it also... but I recently bent the whip beyond repair and I need a replacement whip. This one is multi-banded and it does work really well. Its my go-to for lazy portable ops.

[@transformational-education]

You mentioned on the "drive back from Arizona" you used it. Can you explain your mobile mount and if you drove whip the whip in place and extended? I live in a remote part of Chile and am considering this to put on a 1998 Land Cruiser Prado...

[@temporarilyoffline]

I used the same tripod for the 2 activations I did on the way back from AZ.

[@dovetomarc]

Great review. Thanks. Question: How important is it to have 10 meter radials versus say four 25’ Radials?

[@temporarilyoffline]

I only used 4x10 because the instructions said "have some 10m radials". I can only imagine the antenna gets better with better radials. Give it a shot!

[@MikeN2MAK]

Good review, TO

[@temporarilyoffline]

Thanks Mike!

[@martinsalt1839]

Hi Steve, looks a good antenna. Did you make any SSB contacts at all ? Thanks. Martin M0UMS

[@temporarilyoffline]

In this video I made SSB contacts to activate a park. This was the antenna of choice for my long road trip and plane flight. It worked great: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3mskoKJfcljjLc

[@K3JRZOnTheAir]

Thought about the GGabil stuff… But how many antennas can one ham have? LOL. Don’t answer that. 73!

[@temporarilyoffline]

We both know that answer!

[@clesheanj]

How long are the counterpoise wires? I see you have 1 power pull with 4 wires. what size power pull is that? thanks

[@temporarilyoffline]

I have 4 10m radials in this setup, I use the standard 15,30,45 size PP and I have a bunch of different radial setups that snap into place with via PPs. They "break-away" nice if somebody trips over a wire.

[@clesheanj]

do you solder your wires to the powerPull connectors well as using the crimping tool? @@temporarilyoffline

[@temporarilyoffline]

I do, some people think that'd weird though...

[@toddlittles2786]

where do i buy that radio the x6100

[@temporarilyoffline]

The best place to get it is Radioddity as they provide the best support/warranty service. Here is a link for you that will save you $15: www.radioddity.com/products/xiegu-x6100?aic=KVRB7VP

[@jamess1787]

Now i want this antenna, not my crappy JPC-12... 😢

[@temporarilyoffline]

I like the JPC 12 too, different antennas for different needs

[@michaelzehrfeld7766]

In the "european area" the name of the antenna is "Kommunica HF-PRO-2-plusT"......it´s exact the same antenna as the GABIL... 🙂 However, the efficiency of the antenna in the 80 m band is quite poor. Just about usable for FT8, but SSB connections are already very tedious. On the other hand, the thing actually works very well from 20 meters upwards. The antenna is otherwise passably processed....just a bit overpriced. Ingenious is that you can transport this antenna with its small pack size of not even quite 30 centimeters everywhere very easily. I have already tried them in a few POTA activities and am very satisfied...

[@temporarilyoffline]

I'd expect any serious 80m work would been 4 or 5 retunes to male contacts I'm the entire phone portion. I don't use 80 much, and you're right about the pack size - that's the part I like the most!

[@nvrmor023]

Would it be worth it to throw a 17' whip on it?

[@temporarilyoffline]

It wouldn't hurt, more metal in the air is always a good thing. It would change all the tuning markers, but I'm not sure it would help. I think you'd need an adapter because most 17' whips have 3/8thsX24 studs and I think this antenna "is" the stud. so a coupler maybe?

[@nvrmor023]

​@@temporarilyoffline Waiting to see what the new chameleon one does, but this is probably 25% the price ; )

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@nvrmor023 Chameleon makes good stuff - I have some here that I'm working with!

[@GPSJayDog22]

Thanks for the video. Great information. Cheers, N6WIP

[@temporarilyoffline]

You're welcome!

[@KeepEvery1Guessing]

Does it tune on 60m?

[@temporarilyoffline]

Interesting question, I'm not sure. Look for an upcoming video where I test that out.

[@walteredwards544]

Like this antenna but that tripod is awful expensive. My question in how does this compare to my Comet HFJ 350M Toy Box? Thanks in advance 73, KN4MXZ

[@temporarilyoffline]

The tripod is expensive, but it does all the things you'd want it to - radial connections, 3/8ths x 24 and SO-239. Its a good clean setup. You can get a "mirror mount" and use a tent spike, I'll have a video on that in a few days. As for the toybox, I didn't like way it worked, it took a lot to set it up and its HUGE compared to this Gabil antenna. I have a video on the toybox. I got the toybox before a trip and it was "missing pieces", then I tried to follow their directions and it wasn't happy then either. You can make the toybox work, but its very finicky since you can't slide the taps a skosh to make it resonant. The toybox is the gabil's ugly friend ;-)

[@seanwood8043]

Awesome

[@temporarilyoffline]

I was pretty impressed - it is a "compromise", but its one that does the thing and that's what matters most.

[@denelson83]

Until a non-Amazon link comes up for this antenna, I will not be considering it. I refuse to buy anything off of Amazon.

[@temporarilyoffline]

Here you go: www.gabilradio.com/ They'll have stock soon, let me know how you like it.

[@tgrossner]

A Hu-whip 😂

[@temporarilyoffline]

Indeed!

[@JamesHannibalKH2SR]

Noice! 👍🏽

[@temporarilyoffline]

You got that right!

[@AlessioBeatrice]

A Komunica HF Pro 2 Plus T clone...

[@temporarilyoffline]

Yeah, it's a clone of a clone of a clone. It the instruction sheet, you can see where they copied the name of the maker they borrowed the design from.

[@AlessioBeatrice]

@@temporarilyoffline thanks 👍🏻👍🏻

[@AndyAAzeroAM]

"You need an analyzer"..Ha! whatever 😉

[@temporarilyoffline]

Right! Some of us weren't born with your gifts!

[@markusm.lambers8893]

Again "foot" ? - Oh no! - Please use metric units! More then 7/8 of the world is using the metric system! Please be aware, what you are telling your audiance. 73 de Markus - db9pz (JN39fq 5km east of LX) - no, I am not saying "3miles" any more, ... !

[@temporarilyoffline]

lol, thanks for watching!

[@markusm.lambers8893]

@@temporarilyoffline Yes, you see the 'joke', not everything is so hard, to have a debate about it, ... ! 😎 73 de Markus - db9pz (JN39fq 3miles/3km east of Lx)

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@markusm.lambers8893 I was going to be "that ham" and argue with you about 7/8ths.

[@davidbinkowski4825]

Oh stop arguing about metric. Go get on the 65.6168 foot band and make some SSB contacts instead.

[@temporarilyoffline]

@@davidbinkowski4825 Right!

[@super66craig]

It's a great Taiwanese company not the cheap china junk that youtubers promote. Im a fan. Just can't afford one right now lol, care to loan me yours, lol 😊

[@temporarilyoffline]

I'm asking them to send me the engraved version... if they send that, then the "sticker" version will be up for grabs! stay-tuned.