Compact vertical antennas are very popular for POTA/SOTA and for portable operating in general. Many of the compact commercial verticals such as the JPC-12 antenna utilize a ground spike to support the antenna. Even though these tend to be shiny objects, it is very easy to pack up your vertical and leave the spike behind, especially if you are rushed due to the onset of bad weather. My solution is to tie a foot of brightly coloured plastic marker tape around the spike near the top. This will make the spike very visible and help you to avoid leaving this critical antenna piece behind at a park.

Cheers,
Michael VE3WMB

Editor's Note: For more on the JPC-12 see https://ovmrc.ca/2023/11/the-jpc-12-a-pota-antenna-candidate/

Found in: Rambler November 2024