Mike, I am of the opinion that anyone who wants to have fun in ham radio should always put the most money into an antenna system. There are many used radios on the market and you could always save there. The ELK antenna, dual bander, is one AMSAT sells at the Dayton Hamvention to help raise monies for Satellite projects. I have seen these demo'd for many satellite contacts handheld and they work very well- About $130. You would have a 200watt capable antenna-1.5lbs. Cushcraft (MFJ) has a A27010S That is dual band, a bit bigger Price $170 & it is 1.8 lbs separate 5 elements on 140 and 440. A bit larger in size and really designed for constant outdoor full service. Remember, you have to rotate directional antennas and any small TV type rotor will work. If you want to use it for Sats, elevation control is a good idea. Personally, I think you would be happier with the MFJ up in the air. Vertical antennas work for local contacts too. Opinions are like noses, most of us have them... 73, Dee, NB2F -----Original Message----- From: amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org [mailto:amsat-bb-bounces@amsat.org] On Behalf Of n8gbu Sent: Sunday, February 20, 2011 8:52 PM To: AMSAT-BB@amsat.org Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Elk

I was wondering if anyone knows or has used an Elk as a base station antenna ? I have been kicking around the idea of using it they way as a first antenna for a base station. Something to try out and get the hang of things. Mike N8GBU _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb