[Mobile-Portable] Outbacker

[MORSENUT at aol.com]

I used the Outbacker before getting my Screwdriver antenna.
 
The antenna is very tough physically, very low profile, light,  and  easy to 
install.
 
On the air, here is what you can expect:
 
80 meters - Lousy antenna....will get a signal out but just above a dummy  
load.
 
40:  Fair.  I was able to get into the ECARS traffic nets  OK,,,with a fair 
signal most of the
      time into a decent band...sometimes better  than that but on average:  
Fair.
 
20:  Good to Very good assuming a decent band.
 
15 and 10:  Very good to excellent with a good band.
 
6:  Very good to excellent when the band is open..of course.
 
The Screwdriver makes the Outbacker look like a dummy load on the low band  
esecially.
 
With a Screwdriver, I have an excellent signal - even on 80 meters and  
especially if I am located in a wide open area, especially near salt  water.
 
But the Screwdriver is a huge antenna compared to the Outbacker and  requires 
a much more substantial mount - often welding is needed,  at least  on 
passenger cars.
 
As with any mobile antenna, make sure you get a short, preferably flat  
conductor running to ground (the body of the vehicle)  right at the base of  the 
antenna - this is crucial.
 
Hope this helps, 73
 
Tim
N8LXR