[Elecraft] OT: Elevated vs. Buried Radials

[Joel Black]

A lot of talk has been going on about radials on the KX3 Yahoogroups 
Reflector, but there is so much FOD on that reflector, I usually delete 
most of the messages.  Although it may have been mentioned there, I have 
probably missed it.

Other than for portability, why are elevated radials so important? I 
have a ground-mounted 6BTV (not my main antenna) in my backyard. I have 
four radials for each band and they were all put in with yard staples.  
I did this in the Fall after the last grass cutting.  By Spring, the 
grass had grown over them.  Now, several years later, there is at least 
one inch of dirt over them.  In all honesty, it's only a backup antenna 
and probably needs some radials replaced.

Now, in my situation, there was no way I was going to use elevated 
radials.  Someone recently posted a link to the SteppIR vertical - the 
CrankIR.  Looking at the one page from the link, it only mentions 
elevated radials.  Now, I've never seen a loaded-tower broadcast antenna 
with elevated radials either.

Is the only benefit portability?

Please, I do not want to also be accused of perpetuating FOD on another 
reflector.  I'd prefer you reply directly to me.  If needed, I'll 
summarize and repost.

Thanks,
Joel - W4JBB