The Gabil GRA-7350T antenna is a game-changer for portable amateur radio enthusiasts. Its compact physical size combined with the common 3/8-24 stud thread makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go operations.
When I first saw the Gabil antenna come onto the marketplace, I really didn't pay too much attention to it because it looked to me like another portable base loaded antenna that uses the M-P (PL-259) connector. I already had the Comet HFM-350 and Gabil GRA-1899T that I use with the Wind Camp RC-1 bracket. I found that style of mount limiting my deployment options.
I saw that they released a version using the 3/8”-24 connector. I obtained one right away and while waiting for delivery I gathered my mounts. I can now use the Workman JAWS Clamp, a magnetic mobile mount, and standard mirror mount. I have also have a couple of custom aluminum brackets for tripod or mast mounting.
Another strong attraction to this antenna was the fact that it packs down into a small form factor. It could almost fit into a vest pocket. In fact, it does fit into a vest pocket in my Burberry Spy trench coat. The size is as follows: 80m coil - 6.5 inches, main loading - 11 inches and the telescopic whip is 9.75 inches. It weighs a light 340 grams. I found a perfect carry case as shown in the Photo 1.
With an upcoming trip to Spain, I also thought this would be ideal for POTA and portable activations. It covers 40 to 6 m plus 80m with the add-on coil. The antenna also allows enhanced shortwave listening and CB radio activity.
I brought my Icom 705 and my portable CB on this trip to Europe. It turned out this antenna was ideal and also brought it along several bus tours we did. I used RG-316 coax as well to keep things light. When I was out and about playing radio, it fit inside my backpack pocket without a worry.
I was right. This antenna packs down pretty small, its light, and it's very efficient. For its small size, it will never out perform a full quarter wave antenna but who can or be able to deploy that in a public space without drawing attention. If you are driving to the beach or to the park, then weight or size isn’t an issue, but if you are hiking to the operating location, doing a SOTA summit or just taking the bus into the city park then you need a small light weight antenna that is efficient and radiates well. When I was out and about playing radio, it fit inside my backpack pocket without a worry.
It uses a slider control that adjusts the Inductance of the coil to match it to the frequency that you plan to operate on. No antenna tuner is required!
You simply adjust the slider control up or down for maximum noise. Then make small adjustments to get the SWR under 1.5 to 1. Of course, I was using this antenna in a portable environment with a JAWS clamp attached to a metal pipe or railing. I also use 16.5 feet of CP wire (also can be used as a ¼ wave on 20m and up on its own).
I also used it on the CB band and for listening to SW Broadcast stations.
I found the Gabil antenna allowed me to make contacts in various locations and was fast to set up and had a stealthy low profile.
The quality of the materials is very high with tight threads and no wobbling. I get really upset when antennas I buy fall apart after several uses due to poor quality and bad workmanship. Buy once Cry once
I found the Gabil antenna allowed me to make contacts in various locations and was fast to set up and had a stealthy low profile.
73s,
John VE3IPS
13 май 2024
