[Antennas] Opinions Please

Sun Mar 6 10:56:58 EST 2005

`Hi All,
I am currently using a Cushcraft A-3 beam at my QTH. This is put up on a 50
foot tower among trees. At the moment, I have a small branch of one tree
which touches the tip of the reflector at one point when I am rotating the
antenna. I am wanting to replace this antenna with something which will
provide me with gain and directivity on the present three bands plus 17 and
12 meters. I have personally reached the conclusion that a Lightning Bolt 2
element 5 band quad would give me what I want with a smaller turning radius
than I presently have.
But, before I make the investment, I would like to get some thoughts from
the list. Are there any other beams out there with the same or slightly
smaller footprint as an A-3 which would give me all five bands with good
gain and front to side and front to back ratios? Any other type of antenna
I ought to consider that would give me the things I want and fit into the
space I have?
Thanks so much for your thoughts. Very 73.
Kevin :)
Amateur Radio: K7RX
Navy Marine Corps MARS: NNN0SHS