There are so many antennas out there, and so many claiming to be the best. It is hard to know what to pick! And you like your handheld radio, but you want some more range. This article is for you.
If you plan on working satellites, weak signal digital or SSB, consider something with more gain. You can find more info on those in the satellite antenna article here:
What Bands?
First, determine which bands you will be operating. If you plan on using the local repeaters, a dual-band radio (2M + 70CM) and dual-band omnidirectional antenna is an excellent choice for a first station.
I have a Yaesu FT-8900R. It is a quad-band (10M, 6M, 2M, 70CM) radio with a Diamond V2000A triband antenna. It is a fine setup, and I have no issues with it. I had plans to use the 10M and 6M FM repeaters in the area. When I got my tri-band antenna mounted, I discovered these repeaters were either linked to other repeaters or had no one listening to them. 10 and 6 FM is not common.
What about the 33CM and 23CM bands?
There are not many radios that can operate on these bands. If you want to run these bands, it would probably be best to run their own separate antennas. If this is your first antenna, probably stick with 2M/70CM for best results.
Check Repeaterbook to help you decide: https://www.repeaterbook.com/repeaters/index.php?state_id=none
Where? How High? What Mount?
Determine where you are going to mount this antenna. You will want this antenna as high as reasonably possible. If you are above the roofline, this will help your signal reach repeaters that are further away. Mine is mounted on my house eaves with a TV antenna mount: LINK
You can also use J mounts; these were common with satellite TV antennas. Or a chimney strap. Just remember to keep the force of the wind in mind. A bigger antenna means more wind resistance.
What if you don’t want a permanent antenna install or HOA covenants that prohibit antennas?
This is a tough situation, but hams are resourceful, and there may be a solution for you.
Mag-mounted antenna on a steel pizza or sheet baking sheet.
N9TAX/Slim Jim antenna in a window or tree.
You may also want to look into an attic antenna. Personally, I do not have any experience with these, but I know several that have one.
Now that you have an idea of what you have to work with, most antennas for VHF/UHF repeaters don’t need to be fancy. Most repeaters are placed in favorable locations (hilltops, tall buildings) so they can be heard as far as possible.
How Much Gain Should A Base Station Antenna Have?
Some antenna manufacturers will inflate their gain numbers, so the specs may be exaggerated. As long as your signal is getting to your antenna, there is a good chance the repeater will hear it. Most times, line of sight and obstructions will affect reception more than the difference between one base station antenna and another.
This is why the old saying remains true:
HEIGHT IS MIGHT!
Antenna Recommendations
N9TAX
Jpole
Comet
GP-1
GP-3
Diamond
X50A
X200A
Mobile installations are on a case-by-case basis. Do what works for you and your situation. I can’t cover them all in this article. Just be aware of water getting in.