[Elecraft] G5RV antenna experience on K3

[Edward R. Cole]

I'd echo remarks of Keith, AG6AZ.  I have used resonant dipoles, 
folded dipoles, inverted-V "dipoles", sloper dipoles, etc. for years 
(since 1958).  One cannot replace the inherent simplicity of a 
half-wave resonant antenna.

Currently, I have a dual-band 80/40m inverted-V (40 foot in center 
with 20-foot high ends) which is perfect for local to mid-distance 
(actually works out 3,000 miles easily with 14w with my K3/10).  I 
used some 1/2-inch dia.by 8-inch long painted wooden dowel drilled to 
accept #12 solid copper wire to be separated by 6-inches for the two 
dipoles.  I spaced the dowels about 2-foot along the dipoles.  A bit 
of nylon (black dacron would be better) cord at the end of the 40m 
dipole ends secures it back to the 80 dipole wires.  Black Tywraps to 
hold the spacers in place.  Basically do it yourself 600-ohm open wire.

I tuned the 80 m dipole first then the 40m dipole for my favorite 
part of each band using a MFJ-269B analyzer.  A tuner lets me use the 
whole band if I want.  Not up yet will be a sloping dipole for 30m at 
40 feet on the high end facing east off my 50-foot tower#2.  Dipoles 
are the easiest antennas to get working for HF.

Another style 80/40m dipole was made using a 3-inch spacer of nylon 
rope to disconnect the outer part the 80m dipole from the center 40m 
dipole.  A plain old alligator clip was used switch bands.  Unclip 
for 40m and reconnect for 80m.  This was dubbed the "Iditarod 
Special" for its use at trail checkpoints when ham radio was used in 
the sled dog race years ago.  Makes a great portable antenna for two 
bands (a lot more efficient and lighter than traps).  I even ran the 
this at 12 feet off the snow on some years with good results.  I took 
no tuner but did have a SWR meter for adjustments.




73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45
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