Top products from r/cbradio
We found 66 product mentions on r/cbradio. We ranked the 112 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
1. WILSON 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount Antenna
Sentiment score: 3
Number of reviews: 5
300 Watts Power Handling Capability (ICAS)Large 10 oz magnetHeavy-Duty Coil Uses 14-Gauge Copper Wire36" 17-7 PH Stainless Steel Whip Base Load AntennaMade with High Impact Thermoplastic. Low Loss Coil Design
2. Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio. Pro-Series, Compact Design. Public Address (PA) Function. Instant Emergency Channel 9, External Speaker Jack, Large Easy to Read Display. - Black
Sentiment score: 4
Number of reviews: 4
Uniden’s Professional Series PRO505XL is a compact and affordable full 40 channel CB radio featuring CB and Public Address functions with an easy-to-read large backlit LCD display.This compact durable radio is easy to use and will fit into virtually any vehicle with its compact size.Monitor your t...
3. Astatic PDC1 100 Watt SWR Meter
Sentiment score: 3
Number of reviews: 4
3 function analog meterIndicates the condition of a 50 ohm antenna and coax used for CB operationTests for SWR or relative power10 watt and 100 watt switchesForward and reverse switches
4. Uniden BEARCAT 980 40- Channel SSB CB Radio with Sideband NOAA WeatherBand,7- Color Digital Display PA/CB Switch and Noise Cancelling Mic, Wireless Mic Compatible
Sentiment score: 6
Number of reviews: 4
STAY CONNECTED: The BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio allows you to stay connected while out on the road and is great for people with a long drive ahead of themLARGE EASY-TO-READ DISPLAY & CHANNEL: Illuminated control panel with 7 color personalized display options for easy use in all lighting conditions. Al...
5. Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
Sentiment score: 6
Number of reviews: 3
SOLARCON A-99 17.5' Omni-Directional Fiberglass Base Station CB Antenna.Handles 200 Watts PEPFor 10M-12M Amateur Use too.Requires Optional Mounting mast & Optional coaxial cable.Tuneable for lowest SWR reading.
6. Firestik K-4A Stud with Screw-On Coaxial Termination for Antenna Mirror Mounts
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 3
Made with Outstanding Design and Material QualityChrome Plated Machine Brass and Nylon InsulatorsCan be Used in Any Mount or Mounting Surface with a 1/2" (13mm) Hole
7. Roadpro 12V Fused Replacement Cigarette Lighter Plug with Leads (RPPS-225),Black
Sentiment score: 3
Number of reviews: 3
Manufactured with heavy duty 16- gauge copper wire leadsIncludes built-In fused cigarette lighter plugFeatures green LED indicator and finger gripDual spring contacts for maximum conductivityEasy installation
8. K40 Antenna, Base Load, 35 in.
Sentiment score: 8
Number of reviews: 3
Auto & Truck MaintenanceCountry of manufacture: United StatesManufacturer: K40
9. Universal Compact Bench Power Supply - 30 Amp Regulated Home Lab Benchtop AC-to-DC Converter w/ 13.8 Volt DC 115/230V AC Switchable, Screw Type Terminals, Cooling Fan - Pyramid PSV300
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 2
CONVERTS AC TO DC: The Pyramid Bench Power Supply features regulated design. Provides convenient and reliable AC-to-DC power conversion w/ constant source of DC voltage. Works w/ cellular phones, CB radio, scanner, HAM radio, etcSCREW-TYPE TERMINALS: Features universal hardwired screw-type connectio...
10. TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 2
Covers all CB frequenciesIncludes 3.5" magnet mount, shock spring, stainless steel whip & 17ft RG58 cable with PL-259Great for all your needs2 Feet TallCovers All Cb FrequenciesIncludes 3.5" Magnet Mount, Shock Spring, Stainless Steel Whip & 17- Feet Rg58 Cable Pl-259
11. Procomm 3 feet Coaxial Cable Jumper with PL259 Connectors
Sentiment score: 2
Number of reviews: 2
* Genuine Procomm Brand Cable in Procomm Branded Package!* 3Ft With Pl-259 Connectors Installed!* Black RG-58 Cable, 50 Ohm.* Great For Amateur Radio, CB and Two Way Antenna interconnections.
12. Rugged Ridge 13551.09 Black CB Radio Dash Mount
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 2
BlackUses factory hardwareNo drillingMounts a compact CBLimited 5 Year Warranty
13. Midland 75-822 40 Channel CB-Way Radio
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 2
Portable CB radio with 40 CB channels, 10 NOAA channels, and 4 Watts of output powerPower with six AA batteries or included cigarette lighter adapter for mobile useInstant access to NOAA Radio, channels 9 and 19; Dual Watch monitors channel 9 and additional channelANL (automatic noise limiter) and s...
14. Astatic (302-PDC2) SWR/RF/Field Strength Test Meter
Sentiment score: 3
Number of reviews: 2
3 functions: tests for SWR, RF power and field strengthDesigned to test any 50 ohm antenna and antenna coax used for CB operationMounting bracket and hardware included
15. Browning 26.5-30 MHz NMO CB Antenna
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 2
Black chrome finish49 inch stainless steel whip1/4 wave, unity gainDc ground/shunt fedGold plated plunger type contact pin
16. Cobra HH 38 WX ST 4-Watt 40-Channel CB Radio
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 2
SoundTracker System - Cuts noise up to 90% for clearer communicationsNOAA Weather and Emergency Radio - Be prepared for storms and emergencies with built-in NOAA radio receiverChannel Scan - Scan all 40 CB channelsDual Watch - Monitors two pre-selected channels simultaneously4 Watts Power Output - M...
17. Firestik 4ft Firestik ® II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna 900 Watts Red - Firestik FS-4RD
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 1
4' Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna - 900 Watts Red FS-4RD
18. 2PCS RF Coaxial Coax Adapter PL259 UHF Male to SO239 UHF Female Right Angle Adapter PL259 to SO239 90 Degree Jack Connector
Sentiment score: -1
Number of reviews: 1
Material:Nickel-Plated Machined Brass ConstructionFor Antennas, Wireless LAN Devices , Coaxial cable, Wi-Fi Radios External Antenna and so onImpedance :50 ohmPackage include:2 x AdaptersShape: right angle
19. Streetwires BASML Battery Adaptor Side Mount Long Post
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 1
Long Side Mount Battery Post AdapterSolid Brass CoatedFeatures a Connection Terminal for your Vehicle's Electrical Components, as well as a Ring Terminal for your Audio Components
20. Sunforce AC/DC Power Converter
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 1
Technical Information-Device Supported-Antenna: Power Description-Input Voltage-110 V AC:Power Description-Frequency-60 Hz: Power Description-Output Voltage-12 V DC: Power Description-Fixed Output Voltage-12 V DC: Physical CharacteristicsWeight (Approximate)-1 lb:Technical Information-Device Support...
Getting into the hobby for cheap can certainly be done. Asking for 20 miles out of a cheap set up is going to be where it gets tough...
Long story short, your communication abilities can range from <1mile to hundreds of miles, even thousands of miles depending on a ton of variables. It doesn't really matter what radio you use (yes, some are better than others) but in the end, it's environment, conditions and ANTENNA, ANTENNA, ANTENNA! Power (linear amplifiers) certainly helps too, but it mainly comes down to those 3 topics.
Where are you transmitting/receiving? In a city with buildings and lots of RF background noise? On top of mountain with wide open land for miles around? Obviously, you'll perform much better the higher you are and the less obstructions you have.
Now we are on top of mountain, what kind of antenna do we have? Do we have a 6" rubber duck antenna on a handheld? Or are we running a 102" whip or big base antenna? I can assure you that no matter how high this mountain is, that rubber duck ain't getting out of a paper bag. Whereas I've talked barefoot (no amp) on a 4ft Firestik about 50miles as the crow flies when I was on a local mountaintop. With more antenna and/or more power, I could extend that range exponentially.
For an entry level set up, I'd recommend a few things. A good mobile set up could include;
Radio - Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio. Pro-Series, Compact Design. Public Address (PA) Function. Instant Emergency Channel 9, External Speaker Jack, Large Easy to Read Display. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ZLB0E4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_h7bmDbXMZGZ2J
Antenna - K40 K-30 Automotive Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H2W270/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_N8bmDbSDJ2RW1
This radio and antenna is a cheap, effective mobile combo that you can expect decent performance from. In poor to good conditions, you'll get 1-5 miles of transmit/receive. In optimal "top of the mountain" conditions, you could easily get 10-20+ miles. There's also this phenomenon called "skip". I'll let you research what that's all about, but basically it's using specific atmospheric conditions to bounce or "skip" your communication over vast distances. Plenty of YouTube vids explaining skip, so I won't get into that here.
For a more dedicated, base type set-up, I'd recommend a better radio and more substantial antenna. You can still use mobile radios in base setups, but there are also "base" specific rigs too. Same wattage, just in a desktop version and are generally 110, not 12V. My current base set-up is cheapish, and has proven to be very effective, as I have made contacts to several out of state stations. Again, these are just recommendations from equipment I've personally owned. There is tons of kick ass gear out there, and finding what works for you is all part of the fun.
Base radio - Uniden BEARCAT 980SSB 40- Channel SSB CB Radio with Sideband NOAA WeatherBand,7- Color Digital Display PA/CB Switch and Noise Cancelling Mic, Wireless Mic Compatible https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_alcmDbH8DQMGD
Base antenna - Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017J7NQ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_RlcmDbFSJ9T95
Hope all this info helps. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. This is a great sub with tons of knowledge! Have fun on the waves!
I will try to address all of your questions:
For help on tuning there are many good videos on youtube. Additionally if you need to order things take a look at Right Channel Radios. They have all of this (antennas, meters, radios, mounts, etc.) and they have nice instructions on how to tune your antenna.
Let me know if you have any other questions. Always happy to hear people are getting into CB. Would love to see it grow again.
Sure thing. This sub doesn't seem to be overly active so if you have any more questions or run into trouble, you might want to ask them over in /r/amateurradio. It's really the only place on the internet where hams hang out that don't seem to mind answering CB radio questions.
I'm not sure what your budget is but you may want to look at this meter instead. The one you linked is just fine but this one also shows power output and not just reflected power like the one you linked. If you really want to get into it, you could also purchase a dummy load for accurately testing power. There are several out there for CB use. I think Workman also makes one along with a company called Opek that also makes CB-related gear. Since your average, off-the-shelf 100% legal radio puts out 4 watts on AM and 12 watts on SSB, you'd need one that can handle that amount of power. Ideally, you'd want one that will handle more than you can put into it, so something like a 25-50w+ load would work just fine. That being said, I've used one of these before with a CB radio and it worked well. I just wouldn't throw a bunch of power into it for a long time, which isn't something you'd likely be doing anyways unless you crank the power up in the radio (don't do that) or purchase an amplifier (ditto). You don't necessarily need a dummy load but it might be nice to have just for testing purposes in case you're not 100% sure that radio actually works.
Also, don't forget to purchase a short (3-6ft) jumper to hook the meter to the radio. There are several on Amazon and some folks may sell a package deal made up of a meter and a jumper. Here's an example, although the shipping for it as more than the item itself. Either way, you'll need to get one that has PL-259 connectors on each end.
All you need to get that distance is a properly mounted 102 inch steel whip with a heavy duty spring, the mount should be drilled directly into the body of the vehicle and as close to the center as possible. The closer you get to the corners the more directional your range will become (I.e. back left corner of the vehicle will send the signal further off the direction the front right is pointed) this can be a good thing for vehicles falling behind the caravan. Get the antenna as high as possible the lower and closer to the body the less output you will have you want everything you can get for this range. Any other antenna won’t provide you the results your looking for; period, point, blank. That’s the first most important step. Get a clamp down if it’s too tall.
Next use proper coax RG213 it is lossless and 50ohms this is the perfect coax for CB radio; same stuff used by military. This is also important for this range. RG 58 will have loss and could be the difference in a mile or two.
You will also need an amplifier. Just a KL203P will provide you the power to reach 10 miles it will pump out 100 watts. They are very clean using a mosfit and don’t bleed over on other channels and cheap. Also, be sure to get an amp with a preamp this boost your receive to pull fading signals in it will help insure you get the 10 mile range.
If you have done the above steps you can now buy just about any CB you want they all put out 4 watts. However, you can get them peaked and tuned to match your amp for a little extra distance a local shop can do this or online shop like Bells. However, it’s not mandatory with the above amp and you’ll still get 10 miles.
If your installing yourself you’ll need an SWR/Watt meter to ensure proper working condition and you don’t burn up your equipment. Although, you can always have a local cb shop set it up for you and install.
Lastly, you’ll need to stay on off channels when operating so if you start hearing skip or DX turn to another channel that’s quieter. Stay off 6, 11, 19, 26, 28, and 38 these are frequently used and your transmission will be hampered by that. SSB will allow even further transmissions but be sure you amp has SSB capability KL203P does. Also, keep in mind that SSB requires each radio operator to tune in the one being received this is why it fell out of favor case driving and tuning is a pain in the ass. If each vehicle has a passenger this would not be an issue though.
This setup will get you 10 miles city, county, woods, mountains, and 20 on a flat plane. Anyone who says otherwise don’t know what they are talking about. Caravans are popular among over the road truckers who use this method. Also, keep in mind that rear vehicle only needs to reach the middle vehicle as they can relay the message to the front vehicle or vice versa.
I’d get the Uniden 980 SSB as they are matched for the KL203P stock out of the box. Many people run these without the peak and tune with awesome success.
https://www.wearecb.com/102-inch-cb-whip-antenna.html?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8_PfBRC3ARIsAOzJ2urlUI2xj35bZDuIbDSgTzuloWdl1YsfzPv9gfzua0izr2xQp4lJmnUaArQMEALw_wcB
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F112016328205
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F173658227769
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004ULN610/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ISC.Bb398FYA4
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EUC.BbR4V1S61
I have the K30 on top of my Camry now.
It's a 35" antenna: Shorter than the Firestiks, K40, and the same-ish length as the "Lil Wil."
Even that is pushing the height, as I have to stop and take my antenna off before going into many parking garages now (I just unscrew the antenna from the mount and stash it inside the car). If you don't want to have to do that, figure out what your maximum height is going to be for the places you're likely to go, and then stay under that when choosing an antenna. You won't get as good performance as if you had a full-length antenna... but you'll probably get good enough and you've already decided you're not mounting an 8.5 foot antenna so it's moot.
You could have a slightly longer antenna if you mounted it to your trunk, than to your roof. Different people will tell you differently about whether that's going to help at all and I'm not a radio engineer so I can't help you there. With that in mind, most of the antennae suggested so far would probably work for your form factor (amazon links chosen at random, for illustrative purposes only):
With my 35" antenna around 7 feet in the air, powered by my 4-watt car radio, the longest I've skipped a clear conversation is ~1,348 miles (and I receive from all of the US, southern Canada, and Hawaii). I don't have a decent measure of the line-of-sight range yet as there seem to be precious few locals around where I live.
I note that it looks like the Firestiks are often sold separately from their mounts, whereas the Lil' Wil and K30/40 come with everything you need (antenna, mount, coax).
The Uniden 520 is a great choice for a basic radio. I've been using one for years with excellent results. It's really hard to beat for the size/money.
Consider the K30 magnet mount antenna for an alternative in that size.
I've used both it and the Little Wil and found the K30 to perform noticeably better. It's also less expensive:
http://www.amazon.com/K40-K-30-Stainless-Magnet-Antenna/dp/B000H2W270/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417900765&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=K30
The other commenter that suggested getting an SWR meter is also correct. These antennas all require some degree of adjustment for optimal performance. Just a basic meter will work fine.
http://www.amazon.com/Astatic-PDC1-100-Watt-Meter/dp/B004ULN610/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417900872&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=SWR+meter
And the jumper:
http://www.amazon.com/Procomm-Coaxial-Cable-Jumper-Connectors/dp/B003DRJ738/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_y
The meter and jumper is something you'll very rarely need (just when moving the setup to a different vehicle, for the most part) so if you husband has a friend into CB or HAM operation, he may be able to borrow one for a few minutes rather than buying.
Finally, you'll need some way to power the radio. The easiest way is with a lighter plug:
http://www.amazon.com/Roadpro-Fused-Replacement-Cigarette-Lighter/dp/B0016LG0CY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417901045&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=lighter+plug
Just cut the connectors off the ends of the wires and splice it with the ones on the radio.
Alternatively, you can connect to the fuse box with an Add-A-Circuit. These come in different sizes depending on the fuses in your car. You can get one of these for less than $10 at any auto parts store.
Here are helpful links direct to the products I own.
About antennas: The antenna is important... as important (or more so) than the radio. My antenna choice (dipole) may not be the best choice for your needs. So, the ANTENNA link below goes to an AMAZON search for CB antennas for apartments, balcony, patio, etc. which may be a better fit to your needs.
Hope these are helpful! Big Bux, Bucks County PA 19047
UNIDEN 980SSB Radio & Mic https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BEARCAT-Sideband-WeatherBand-980SSB/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=sr_1_3
MegaWatt S-400-12 36 Amp Power Supply https://www.amazon.com/MegaWatt%C2%AE-S-400-12x-Adjustable-Supply-MegaWatt/dp/B00LIBRKQM
Driver's Product DPSWR2 External SWR Meter; https://www.amazon.com/Drivers-Product-Antennas-SO-239-Output/dp/B06VW7N5Q5/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1
Midland 21-406 External Speaker https://www.amazon.com/Midland-21-406-Amateur-Extension-Speaker/dp/B000246VPM/ref=sr_1_2
CB Antenna for Apartment, Patio, Balcony, or Indoors https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&amp;field-keywords=cb+antenna+apartment&amp;rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3Acb+antenna+apartment
Cobra makes a decent handheld cb, but I wouldn't expect the same performance as a vehicle mounted or base station cb. I would recommend replacing the "rubber duck" antenna with a telescoping one. I have a cobra HH 38 WX ST on a good day I get between 2 and 3 miles. Not a bad idea for hiking if you know someone in that area is monitoring ch9 or you have friends out there with CB's
A hood channel mount like this firestik or this procomm with an antenna like this Tram or this firestik should work well and not look terribly out of place on a small car. A small mag mount like a K30 or lil will would be another good, non-permanent option.
If you are mostly listening, you should be fine. Most cigarette outlets are rated for 8 amps at 13.8v. My Cobra 19 DX III only uses 1.2 amp on transmit so it is safe for me do what you are suggesting. Some vans and trucks have "power outlets" that are rated for 18-20 amps that would be perfect even for a long talker.
The power post you are suggesting scares me since leaves things so exposed. I ended up using the following that you can buy in almost any store with basic automotive electrical parts.
Terminals and Spades and a Replacement Cigarette Adapter. The Cigarette adapter in stores is usually rated for 3 amps. For CB's that should be plenty, but if the fuse pops after some long TX you may need to figure out running a Positive wire to the battery and the black to bolt to the car frame.
If you're looking for an affordable setup, I have a [Uniden 505] (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ZLB0E4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) and a [Little Wil] (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I5NQA8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1). The magnetic mount is quick and easy if you don't mind scratching your paint a little. I've gotten about 10 miles range on a good clear night with a good tune. You guys can get one [meter] (https://smile.amazon.com/METER-Radio-Antennas-Jumper-cable/dp/B002KRME3C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1493344815&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cb+radio+tuner) amongst yourselves to tune the antennas.
Thanks for the tips. I'm kicking myself because I just donated a box of old wall transformers that I would've saved had I known. I know I have a couple of 12v/5amp wall transformers from old HDDs that I might try for home use. I was thinking about this adapter for car use.
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I was also wondering if you knew what sort of antenna I should look for. The radio came with a small one, however the wiring on the antenna doesn't connect to the radio correctly. The radio has a screw type mount I'm not familiar with, but was hoping it might be a cb standard and easy to find a replacement for.
Recommendations will depend on your budget. The little unidens that have already been recommended are good. For an antenna, this here is sort of the king of base station cb antennas. We're talking 50 miles instead of 5.
Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017J7NQ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_e-qXCb5Q4M2MB
Just check Amazon for base station cb antennas, to find one in budget and if you're not wanting it on your car. They'll be easier to mess with than adapting a mobile, IMO.
First rule of CB, ANTENNAS!! You can have a 1000$ radio hooked to a bad antenna and never hear anyone, and kill your fancy radio. Hook a 30$ uniden to a good, properly set up antenna and you'll hear for miles.
Learn what SWR is before you ever use your radio to transmit. Listen all you want without transmitting, but you'll need to tune your antenna before transmitting. Keeping asking questions and googling. Good luck!
I'd get a cobra 29 Ltd and a 4' firestik 2 with a good bracket and coax. That's what I run in my pickup. I get 4 to 5 miles with it. I have it on a 96 f150 with a hood mount.
Depending on where you mount it, you may want a longer antenna, maybe a mid load. But firestik has always served me well, and the 2 has an easy to tune tip, for a moderate price. And the 29 Ltd has a built in meter that works well enough to tune without having to go buy an external one.
Cobra 29LTD Professional CB Radio - Instant Channel 9, 4 Watt Output, Full 40 Channels, SWR Calibration https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JPF3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UbiPCbZA96AM6
Firestik 4ft Firestik ® II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna 900 Watts Red - Firestik FS-4RD https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000SB6SDE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OciPCbM9XH2JY
FireStik Antenna Company K8R9 9ft. W/pl259 & Firering Conn https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X39TFG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_sdiPCb7S2T3HN
Uniden Bearcat 980 SSB "The little engine that could" inexpensive, and one of the best CB Radio's that I own. https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BEARCAT-Sideband-WeatherBand-980SSB/dp/B007B5ZAES
https://youtu.be/Esatm-X88B8
Get on 38 LSB and talk skip when solar conditions are good.
http://www.bellscb.com/products/antennas/wilson/Wilson_Little_Wil.htm *Lil' Wil 38 Inches.
I was looking into this one I found on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Astatic-302-PDC2-Field-Strength-Meter/dp/B000KEUFME/ref=sr_1_4?crid=WL7U0B4DUP5R&keywords=cb+swr+meter&qid=1556484543&s=gateway&sprefix=cb+swr+%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-4
Is this a good meter, or is there a better one you would recommend?
Glad I asked before even making the purchase then...
With a fiberglass antenna, can I easily remove the antenna and store it in the car without having to retune it every time I put it back into the mount?
Also..
what things will I need to buy to make it all work? There seems to be a lot of small things..
-Mount to car. Does the hole size matter? I keep finding hole sizes of 5/8", and the studs being 1/2"...
Is that all I will need?
before you spend $300, remember you can mount them for free or for a minimal amount.
Personally, I just used heavy duty velcro and have had 0 problems. If that isn't permanent or just isn't for you there are things like this or even something like this. Check amazon out before you drop 300
Warmer. Im looking for platforms kinda like this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004IA5BQQ/ref=s9_psimh_gw_p263_d0_i3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-1&amp;pf_rd_r=03JXDWF2M1Q4S93FA0XQ&amp;pf_rd_t=36701&amp;pf_rd_p=1970559082&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop
I have had good luck with this Tram 703-HC. Absolutely no issue with stability of mag mount and antenna itself is sturdy.
TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002IP3WV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.IaKDbCBM2M2P
MIC / Microphone for 4 pin Cobra / Uniden CB Radio - Workman DM507-4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004T4180O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PKaKDb08KJJ5B
TruckSpec TSPSCBH-3CP Platinum Series 3-Pin Plug and 12-Volt Plug Fused Replacement CB Power Cord (3 Wire) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0169LNN7K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_sNaKDb6DG1TZB
This will get ya started. You can upgrade later if you enjoy it.
So I can purchase a portable radio like this and have it it mounted in my glovebox or elsewhere, and wire it to a magnetics antenna on the back of my car? Will I have to do any electrical work or tweaking of the cars electronics/radio?
For about the same price of the Predator, you can get yourself an A99 on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Solarcon-99-Base-Station-Antenna/dp/B0017J7NQ2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Solarcon+A-99&qid=1567992827&s=gateway&sr=8-1 - though if the Predator is what you already have on hand (or height is currently restricting), then why not..
I've seen people use a cookie sheet as a ground plane on a magnet/drilled mount - but your mileage may vary...
Not necessarily at night, just whenever you're done driving for the day and getting ready to sleep.
If you want something small, look at the Midland 75-822 and a Wilson Little Wil antenna. That Midland CB comes with a car adapter that basically makes the whole unit a CB mic with all the controls on it.
Edit: and you'll need separate co-ax cable to connect the CB and the antenna.
So would something like this work? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004TKVD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WH7RBbMK4PBGF
Same exact one that /u/ImALittleCrackpot posted!
But when I purchased mine, I didn't need to buy a separate co-ax like they mentioned. My Little Wil antenna has one permanently attached to it. About 18' long.
Here it is
the only other thing I see that you should consider getting is a swr meter
http://www.amazon.com/Astatic-PDC1-100-Watt-Meter/dp/B004ULN610/
when your dealing with low watts system like a CB matching your antenna to the CB can make a major difference on your transmit and receive, as much as a few miles.
I use a Larsen NMO-27 10m-11m nmo mount with a Browning 10m-11m antenna:
https://www.amazon.com/Browning-26-5-30-MHz-NMO-Antenna/dp/B013PXD0J6
https://www.amazon.ca/Uniden-BEARCAT-Bearcat-Display-Backlighting/dp/B006TA2F1M/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
What do you think of that?
https://www.amazon.ca/Uniden-40-Channel-CB-Radio-PRO505XL/dp/B005ZLB0E4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=cb+radio&amp;qid=1551053985&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-2
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NPT4TK/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_B6ldvb1QH60FQ
Plenty of power for a radio and amp
Is it possible to mount the antenna that comes with that kit to a magnetic mount outside the car or is it a difference connection?
Here is the kit for reference: http://www.amazon.com/Midland-75-822-Channel-CB-Way-Radio/dp/B00000K2YR/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411589742&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=midland+75-822
cobra 75 with a little will antenna.
https://www.amazon.com/Cobra-75WXST-40-Channel-CB-Radio/dp/B00005N5WW/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1473807855&amp;sr=8-1-fkmr2&amp;keywords=cobra+76+cb
https://www.amazon.com/WILSON-305-38-300-Watt-Little-Antenna/dp/B001AAT94W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1473807954&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=lil+will+cb+antenna
It's an NMO.
Here is a Larsen antenna for CB freqs:
https://www.amazon.com/Larsen-NMO27B-Field-Tunable-Antenna/dp/B007JSDKO4/
Here is a cheaper Browning:
https://www.amazon.com/BROWNING-26-5-30-MHz-NMO-Antenna/dp/B013PXD0J6
I'm going to be buying the Larsen soon for an odd install I have.
You will need something like this in conjunction with your mounting bracket. This is the piece that connects the cable to the antenna. For what it is worth, the grounding plane on a jeep is a pain to work with. I was having all kinds of issues with signal on my JKU until I added a spring. If you have signal issues, no reception, etc, I would suggest adding this to your setup.
Sorry, but WTF is that right angle abomination?Those split washers aren't doing you any favors sticking into the gap of that slot. You need a mount with an actual SO239 stud on it, mounted through an appropriate sized hole. Don't use a separate ground wire. You're creating a ground loop. Ground coming from the coax needs to come in contact with the mount, which happens by default with a SO239 stud.[Edit] Just discovered the "FireRing". I guess the fire part is what comes out the back of your radio. I see lots of people online having SWR issues with these things. Several commenters stated that it uses cheap coax to boot.
RF isn't DC. Making an electrical connection isn't good enough. There's a fair amount of engineering that goes into designing a coaxial connector to keep it from effecting the signal, and I suspect this firering never had that advantage. If you need a right angle, you can get a pair of SO239 elbows on Amazon for $9 and stick it on the SO239 stud.