Base MFJ-1890 Moxon Antenna

[Straightshooter58]

I have been out of Radio for 30 years or so..and been checking into buying new gear for this Hobby. Being on Social Security and a very limited income..I have been looking into new base antennas. I'm not fond of Fiberglass antennas so I looked at several brands ranging from $80-$200..and then I recalled the MFJ-1890 Moxon antenna. MFJ makes one for 10 meter band,and people say that it works well on 11 meter if you extend it all the way out...but my concern is what king of strength will it have turned into a 11 meter antenna? Should I place some soild plastic rods in the antenna where it is joined together and held by a hose clamp to make it stronger in these North Texas Winds? Its less than $100 for a 2 element beam..and since its a bean and light weight..it may work well for me on the DX end. (not on AM Much..) I hope their is someone who can give me some first hand info about the Moxon for 11 Meter band operation. Thank You.

 

[sp5it]

Are you manually capable? DIY. At least 3 element Yagi, not shortened mfj crap.
Mike

 

[BJ radionut]

http://www.sal-electronics.com/se-10mb.html

http://www.sal-electronics.com/se-10h.html

 

[711]

Do yourself a favor and get the 1895 15 meter and shrink down. I got mine tuned for 27.2050.

 

[Straightshooter58]

Do yourself a favor and get the 1895 15 meter and shrink down. I got mine tuned for 27.2050.

Thank You! That is very good info..I was thinking the same thing! How does the Antenna work for You? Respects.

 

[711]

Works good. When tuning and adjusting the lengths, just know what makes sense wont work. I've been building wire Moxons for over 10 years now and what works for that wont work for this tube type. Antenna hears and talks just fine. I have it on a 50ft pushpole at 29ft. Front to back is pretty good and its directional similar to a 3/4 element. I like it cause its light enough for a cheap TV rotor. Handles some power and is pretty broadbanded. Will cover 11 meter with a 1.2 at the edges. I laid out the pieces and ended up cutting one element in half to use for the reflector I believe. Don't ask me for dimensions cause I cant find my notes.

 

[HomerBB]

I have made several 11 meters Moxon antennas. All of them worked well. I have made both a 2m and 6m version, too. Have not done any dx on 2m, but have worked some band openings on 6m with that one. It once again proved to be an excellent antenna.
As you said, they are compact and light, performing as well as some bigger beams. My best versions are those made of tubing. My wire Moxons were less rigid and, therefore less stable mechanically in my experience. When conditions were good I made many dozens of contacts with them.
Choose whichever antenna you wish, but dont be dissuaded from this antenna by speculative answers. . .

 

[Straightshooter58]

Thanks to HomerBB for the added information. I liked what 711 said about his 1895 15 meter moxon..and I'm going that route. In that way I can use it on 11 meter,untill I get my Ticket..and then change it back to 15 meter..or..? Respects.