18.4ft Telescopic Ham Radio Antenna, Stainless Steel Long Reach Design for HF Shortwave and Amateur Radio

Product overview A 5.6 meter / 18.4 foot telescopic ground plane antenna element designed for amateur radio and shortwave DIY projects. Built from reinforced 201 stainless steel with 14 sections, this antenna provides long reach, compact transport, and stable performance for GP antennas, positive V antennas, and Yagi antenna elements. Key benefits Long reach for improved range: Extends to 5.6 m / 18.4 ft to help improve reception and transmission on longwire and vertical configurations. Stable under load: The lower 10 sections feature secondary reinforcements that shift stress points and tighten section fit, reducing wobble and unwanted automatic retraction during raising. Compact and portable: Collapses to 50 cm / 19.7 in including nuts for easy storage and transport. Easy integration: Standard M10 external thread connection nut allows straightforward mounting to common bases and hardware. Durable construction: Made from 201 reinforced stainless steel for longterm reliable use in outdoor antenna applications. Specifications Maximum expanded length: 5.6 m / 18.4 ft Sections: 14 Folded length: 50 cm / 19.7 in (including nuts) Weight: 285 g / 0.6 lb Connection nut: M10 external thread Bottom section diameter: 16 mm / 0.6 in Tip section diameter: 3.6 mm / 0.1 in Material: 201 reinforced stainless steel Package: 1 x telescopic antenna Performance and handling notes Reinforced construction increases the force needed to extend and retract compared with ordinary telescopic rods; this tradeoff reduces upright shaking and prevents accidental collapse while raising, allowing longer stable lifting spans. For reliable operation, extend the antenna section by section. When retracting, fold back section by section from the bottom. Following this method preserves section fit and service life. Practical applications Use as a vertical element for a DIY ground plane antenna to improve HF shortwave reception and transmission. Use individual sections or the full length as elements in homemade Yagi antennas or positive V antenna designs for directional performance. or upgrade telescopic elements in portable ham radio masts or fielddeployable antenna setups where a balance of reach, weight, and stability is required. Why choose this antenna element This telescopic antenna element combines significant length and a compact folded size with reinforced stainless steel construction and an M10 threaded connection for easy mounting. It is intended for hobbyists and amateur radio builders who need a reliable, stable, and transportable telescopic element for GP, V, and Yagi antenna configurations.