You are reading this post because you are interested in buying the best CB radio antenna, right? This unbiased review will give you ideas on which features of the CB radio antenna you should focus on when purchasing one . Keep in mind that it is not enough that you buy the best CB radio in the market. You need a good CB radio antenna to make it work efficiently.
Top 5 Best CB Radio Antenna
Last update on 2024-04-30 at 20:48 PST - Details
Hustler IC56 102” Whip Antenna – #1 Choice CB Radio Antenna
One of the leading brands when it comes to quality antennas and its accessories is Hustler. It is made in the USA and is known as the go-to antenna for most road professionals. The Hustler IC56 is perfect for off-road drivers and semi-pros everywhere.
When used together with high-quality 18-feet of coaxial cable, it can be a real ¼ wave CB antenna. As compared to other brands, the Hustler is very flexible. It can flex up to 180 degrees without damage because of its kink and bend resistant construction.
In case of a tree limb or low garage overhang while traveling, it will not break. A radio antenna taller than the usual can be disturbing for drivers living in areas that are prone to electrical storms. This antenna does not move a lot while traveling since it has a special feature that reduces excessive movements. As a result, a clearer signal and reduces the dangers that involve electric discharge.
You can use CB antenna steel whip tie down to easily handle the bending and storing of the antenna. Secure the IC56 to the aft, fore, or rain gutter on your vehicle using the steel whip tie until you are all set to enjoy optimum range capability of your CB radio.
So, if you are looking for the best possible performance from a mobile CB radio antenna, this Hustler IC56 stainless steel whip antenna is a perfect choice.
We like
- Receiving distance is quite higher.
- Using illegal mods like a power booster is not required. It can still manage to get signals easily from CB and ham.
- The signal is not affected even if you tie it with a cord on your vehicle.
- The antenna is not affected even if your vehicle is susceptible to continuous shaking and moving.
- If you choose to mount it on your track hoe or drive on areas with lots of trees this is the best whip antenna. It is being held up by welded studs.
We do not like
- Some consumers are complaining of a little bending.
FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna – Second Best CB Radio Antenna
If you are driving in an area where tree branches are low or garage door is an obstruction, you need a flexible antenna like the FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna. This fiberglass antenna is a popular CB antenna for an off-road vehicle like Toyota FJ Cruiser and the Jeep Wrangler. It is very flexible, reliable, and performs well.
Aside from having a hi-performance loading coil, it can also receive the NOAA emergency weather alert as well as the national weather broadcasts for radios. The FireStik FL3 is popular for being a lightweight CB antenna. It is 40% lighter than other FireStik series. This feature reduces stress by over 60%.
The FireStik FL3 possesses the patented tunable-tip. Aside from easy tuning, the design also helps extend the antennas bandwidth and boost its power handling capabilities. This CB antenna is compatible with trucks, motorcycles, ATV’s, vans, and cars.
You can also use this antenna in dual configuration on any automobile made from different material. This CB antenna requires to be fine-tuned in their final mounting location. Tuning is easy as popping off the tip and turning the adjustment screw when needed. The FireStik FL3 exceeds the requirements of any CB radio, old or new.
We like
- With a loading coil that assures the best performance. It can enhance the CB’s transmit/receive functions.
- Receives NOAA emergency weather alerts as well as national weather broadcasts if you use it for CB radios.
- You can get impressive range even if you are in a noisy area.
- Lightweight
We do not like
- Mounting hardware is not included in the package.
- You need to avoid closed areas such as parking garages since it is a very tall antenna.
Wilson 305-38 Wil Magnet Mount Antenna
Because of the unique performance of this CB antenna, Wilson refers to this antenna as “Little Wil.” Wilsoon is one of the best manufacturers in the world for sports gear. The company has designed an amazing trademark because of their passion and dedication for quality and dependable products.
For low-profile projection, the magnet mount CB is the best choice. This antenna has a 10 oz big magnet that enables you to remain committed to your vehicle. One of the important features people are focusing on when choosing a CB antenna is clarity. The durable coil has a copper 14-gauge wire to boost your convenience.
With the use of a standard frequency CB range, you can easily tune the Wilson 305 antenna. This antenna provides a good range regardless of its size. You might have a hard time adjusting it, but after reading the instructions carefully it will be easy for you. The manufacturer is confident in how the “little Wil” performs. The 1.7 SWR is mounted on 1 and 40 channels and 1.25 number for 19 channels. You can obtain good results without the need of adjusting.
It is being offered at a reasonable price which makes this antenna one of the best products for everybody. If you are looking for a reliable and quality antenna, this Wilson 305 Wil Magnet Mount Antenna is a good choice.
We like
- With one-year product warranty
- Lightweight
- Compact but powerful.
- It has a strong magnet.
- It includes a coax cable.
- It also includes a PL259 connector.
- Tuning is easy.
We do not like
- The antenna is quite long for cars.
- Not recommended for advanced users.
Solarcon A-99 CB Base - A Good Choice for Those Who Can Afford
The Solarcon A-99 is one of the best CB antenna in the market today but you need a higher budget for this. It has a solid fiberglass base and well-balanced. With its 200-watt power rating, it has a strong signal. Tuning this antenna is easy and you can reach various SWR readings.
The instructions on assembling the antenna are easy to follow. All the hardware you need is included in the package. Each component is nicely packaged, which makes assembly easier. The signal for communications is better and clearer than other CB antennas.
For those who can afford it, this CB antenna is good for you since it is designed professionally. It is one of the best models in the market with its fiberglass highest gain antenna. The antenna performs well with GPK-1 plane ground.
This high-powered A-99 antenna can handle 200 watts power at great insulation to take almost 14500 volts. It is recommended for commercial use, and for export. Strong winds are no match with this CB antenna because it has a durable mounting plate. Made of high-quality material and it is one of the best in the market. It is highly recommended because of its amazing technology.
We like
- Can survive strong winds.
- Made of high-quality fiberglass.
- Can be mounted in various locations.
- Durable mounting plate.
- Help improves signal.
- No ground required.
We do not like
- Some complaint that the shaft got bent after installing the antenna.
Cobra CBRHGA1500 Medium Magnet – Professionally Made at the Right Price
In the industry of CB antenna, Cobra Electronics is a popular brand. They are one of the trusted brands in the industry by producing unique antennas. The company continues to grow as they introduce their ground-breaking products perfect for professionals.
The CB antenna CBRHGA1500 is a respected brand in this sector. It has a distinct magnet mount designed to manage power up to 300-watt and performs well in the frequency range of 26 to 30 MHz. The brand is a combination of a stainless steel and hardware together with an SO239 connector. Tuning can be done easily and lets you push values like 1.1 number on 1 and 40 channels.
There are lots of antenna with a weak magnet that can’t keep it in the right position. Not with Cobra. The magnet of this device is well-secured, so you will not have any problem. These antennas provide a wide range of clarity. This is a lightweight antenna but with powerful features at a reasonable price.
Some users refer to this antenna as a no-frills CB antenna. Setting it up is easy and the frequency range is impressive. Cobra CBRHGA1500 works best on small vehicles. Mounting the antenna on other locations does not affect the signal or range.
We like
- Magnet mount is included.
- Easy to set up.
- The range is quite impressive.
- It adheres well even when driving on the highway.
We do not like
- The screw could have been more secure.
Buying Guide – What to Consider When Buying a CB Radio Antenna
It will be difficult for you to find which antenna is best for your vehicle without knowing the things you need to consider in buying. To help you, I have included in this review some of the important factors you need to focus on when choosing the right antenna.
Types of CB Radio Antenna
There are three general types of CB radio antennas – the fiberglass, whip, and base station.
Most of the antennas you will find in the market today are fiberglass. These antennas are wrapped with copper wire and covered with a protective material. This type of antenna is cheaper. The best thing about fiberglass antenna is that you can mount lower on the vehicle than other types.
The whip antennas, on the other hand, are center or base loaded with a long steel whip which you can tie down when not in use. Professional drivers prefer this type of magnetic antenna. It should be mounted higher on the vehicle and are not as efficient as compared to top loaded ones.
The base CB antennas are much taller than the aluminum or fiberglass antennas, and it is commonly used for base stations in fixed areas instead of mobile CB operations. It should be mounted very high, but high enough to handle high power.
The CB Antenna Length
You guessed it right, taller antenna is better for range of distance, and the best antenna length is ¼ wavelength. It is about 102 inches, quite tall for most mobile applications. To resolve this issue, using coils will help. If you prefer a taller antenna but are worried about clearances like garages, parking structures, and others, find tool-free quick to disconnect accessories for the type of antenna you choose.
If you choose a true ¼ wave antenna there are only a number of it in the market. This antenna provides the best transmit range, as long as it is compatible with your application. To mount it, you need a heavy spring and a ball mount. You can use a whip tie down to keep it secured while traveling.
Function of Coils
Manufacturers of antenna wrap wire around the main shaft of the antenna to create a foil to solve the issue in height. This enables the antenna to be shorter, but it loses its efficiency. To deal with this, load positioning and placement of the antenna is given more importance.
Antenna Load Position
The electrical length of an antenna is measured from the back of the radio to the tip and that includes the coil, whip, and cable. This is how the antenna manufacturers deal with lack of height. Thru the help of coils, antennas can match the recommended electrical length.
The load position refers to the place where the coil is added. It is where the coil is wrapped on the antenna. This includes the center-loaded, base-loaded, no ground plane and top-loaded. For optimal performance, the coil and 2/3 of the antenna should be positioned above the roof line of the vehicle.
Antenna Mount Size and Type
If you can get a mounting kit designed for your antenna, you will not have any problem with compatibility. However, if it is impossible to get one, make sure that antenna matches the threads on the mount. It is important also that it supports the antenna you choose to use. For antennas 4 ft. or longer, you need a heavy-duty mount.
If you are driving along the highway, you don’t want to see your antenna going on the opposite way. Make sure that your mount is big enough and sturdy to support your antenna. Magnetic mounts are helpful, but they are not strong enough to support a long antenna. Winds can whip it back and forth then tip it over.
Final Verdict
Among the Best CB Radio Antenna reviewed above, I find Hustler IC56 as the perfect choice. It possesses all the great qualities that a good CB radio antenna should have. The Hustler IC56 is very durable and flexible as compared to others. There are some antennas that have the qualities Hustler have but they are quite expensive. Just like the Solarcon A-99, it is a good catch, however, only a few users can afford to buy this. With Hustler IC56, you can have a reliable antenna without breaking your budget.
Hope this CB radio antenna review can help you find the right brand for your vehicle. If you think this article is helpful to you, feel free to share this with others or you can make a comment below.
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