The antenna was designed by Andrew S. Griffith W4ULD and published in the October 2000 issue of QST.  While at first glance it may look like a quarter wave J-pole, it is a true vertical dipole which provides a lower radiation angle and therefore a impressive 9.5 db gain.  It is fabricated out of readily available ½ in. copper tube and fittings.  Rollin Gary, WA5RFG will lead the build, explain how the antenna works, and teach you how to solder copper pipe if you have never done it.  Aside from your normal kit-building tools the additional tools required are a copper tubing cutter, hacksaw, utility knife, soldering gun, electric hand drill and bits and a propane torch suitable for soldering copper pipe.  If you don’t have these tools, no problems.  Rollin will have everything you will need to complete the kit.  The kit will include all the custom fabricated parts and materials.  You will cut and assemble the tubing and coax feed line.  This will be an easy build with techniques and a jig that Rollin designed. Total cost of the antenna kit is $40.00usd.

This is an in-person outdoor event and is open to the public you do not need to be a member of the DARC to attend everyone is welcome. There is NO sign up or reservation needed. With each kit you will assemble a complete a 146/445 MHz J-Pole antenna. There are a total of 18 kits available and each kit cost is $40.00 USD. The kits are first come first served and pick up is onsite the day of the event.