There Are No Dumb Questions: Ham Radio Handheld Antenna Answers

Published at : 23 Dec 2025

Kicking off a new series to help those with ham radio questions. If you've been wanting to ask me a question that you think deserves a video, send them here: josh@hamtactical.com

Want the best HT antenna? Signal Stuff Signal Stick https://signalstuff.com/?ref=622 (This is an affliate link)

---- 📡 Videos Mentioned Today 📻 ----
📺 Why BNC adapters are best for HTs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-95vlOMYOU
📺 Which long range HT antenna is best? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Op1-E-7OxS0
📺 How does the ABBREE Antennas perform? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dmf67xy77Bc

N9TAX roll up slim jim antenna can be found here, cheaper than eBay (not affiliated): https://n9taxlabs.com/shop/ols/products/dual-band-slim-jim-antenna-with-10-or-16-foot-cable

You can find some of my radios at GigaParts: The DigiRig can be found here: https://www.gigaparts.com/nsearch/?lp=JOSH

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00:00 - Intro
00:22 - I need your help
01:42 - The stock HT antenna
01:54 - What's in a Rubber Duck antenna?
02:32 - What is an SMA connection?
02:45 - Is my antenna Male or Female?
03:30 - How about BNC connectors?
03:49 - What are antenna adapters?
04:05 - Why I like BNC connectors on handheld ham radios
05:07 - What handheld antenna performs the best?
05:47 - My favorite HT antenna
06:30 - What antenna is the most convenient?
07:06 - Swap your antennas when you need more range!
07:31 - Larger, heavier antennas can damage your ham radio!
08:35 - How do I reach the farthest with my ham radio when I really need to?
09:41 - Can I use a mobile antenna with my handheld ham radio?
10:47 - Can I use a mobile vehicle ham radio antenna at home?
11:33 - Send me your questions!

#HRCC #hamradio #amateurradio