[Elecraft] Magnetic Loop Antenna Question

[Terry Brown]

Hello Group,

 

I am looking for some feedback from those using magnetic loop antennas with
the current band conditions.  I use dipoles or end fed random wires when I
am in the field with my KX3.   When I am at my home, I use a horizontal loop
that is a close to a full wavelength on 80, and a 10-15-20 meter beam.  In
the field I a running max 15w with my KX3 and at home 100W with my KXPA100.


 

I know that mag loops are not as efficient as a dipole and will never
receive or transmit as well because of their compact size as my field
antennas.  I have been toying with the idea of building/buying one for times
when I need a compact antenna for 40-10 meters.  



When I have looked at YouTube videos of folks using magnetic loops, they are
all from a time when band conditions were far better than they are now.

 

Can any of you current magnetic loop antenna users in the group tell me how
they are performing now and what is a realistic expectation as the cycle
continues to drop. I should also say that I am almost exclusively a CW
operator.  I can envision using a mag loop from hotel rooms or other travel
times when I can't get a long wire or a dipole in a tree.

 

Thanks,

 

Terry, N7TB