Can't say enough about this stand

 The AX1 stand by TUFTELN, that is.

If you have an Elecraft AX1 antenna, and you are using the "adjustable bipod stand" that Elecraft supplies, you are going to love this stand.  This stand is way more robust, sturdy and just overall better! Use this once, and you will forget you ever used the Elecraft bipod stand.

The only caveat is you have to make sure you don't overtighten it. Because if you overtighten it, it can be very hard to unscrew the two pieces from each other without damaging it. Take it from me - wink, wink

The beauty of this stand is that it gives you a choice. Since it cradles the AX1 so nicely, you can either connect the AX1 to the radio directly, OR  if you so desire, you can use coax jumpers and connect to your radio with the antenna physically removed - as shown in the photo above (as well as my header photo). If the radio you're using doesn't have a built in autotuner, such as the QMX, this is an absolute necessity. The reason that I don't like the Elecraft bipod is that IMHO, it puts too much stress on the radio's BNC connector. I know that on the KX3, the BNC connector is held in place to the chassis by a nut and not just by solder joints, but even so, I feel that bipod is an awkward arrangement at best.

Again, not an agent for TUFTELN - no kickbacks here! Just a satisfied customer.

AND ..... an announcement from Paul NA5N - mark your calendars !

QRP Zombies,

The 27th annual (1998-2024) ZOMBIE SHUFFLE will be held FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2024.

Pretty much the same silly rules as always.

The QRP Contest that's actually fun. Pick some strange, ghoulish name to use on the air.

Full RULES ARE HERE:

http://www.zianet.com/qrp/ZOMBIE/pg.html

72 and BOO, Paul NA5N

and from me:

72 de Larry W2LJ

QRP - When you care to send the very least!