Uniden 810e + Archer Crossbow My Base

[TheRATT]

Hello!

I've always had mobile setups and I'm very good with those. I've always wanted a base station though and I picked up a Uniden 810e for a steal. I have read they are pretty good out of the box.

I also have an old RadioShack Archer Crossbow 1/2-wave vertical. I have read that this is a POS, as well as people stating that it is as good as anything else.

I'm starting cheap so I can learn and adjust. I live in an apartment and my only concern is whether it is going to work. I can't get it that high right now, I'm on a ground floor. I'm trying to read up on rules and laws and see if they'll be nice and let me mount it on the roof (doubt it).

Anyway, I'm hoping it will at least work for our 7PM net in the Puget Sound.

I welcome all comments good and bad, and any tips!

213 Seattle

 

[Marconi]

Welcome to the forum.

Keep us posted on your progress.

 

[Low_Boy]

Welcome.

 

[Rick330man]

The 1/2 fiberglass Crossbow is basically a Shakespeare Big Stick dyed in light blue. I've got one. It is something like 34+ years old. I can't believe it has lasted this long. That's the result of two things: (1) a decently well built antenna (Shakespeare built them for Radio Shack) and (2) the benefit of always wrapping it in automotive wiring loom. The latter means the fiberglass has not been subjected to the UV rays that destroy fiberglass antennas.

The Crossbow does not get out great as far as base antennas go, but it is adequate. Take basic care of it, don't run power and it should last you a lifetime. Mine having lasted me 34 years +, I can't complain too much.