Which CB to use?

[DeeRex]

Alright - so before I ignite the HAM vs CB argument I'll say that I am looking to get my HAM cert (and then we can do this all over again.)
I figure a CB would still be a good idea to have - even if there's also a HAM in the truck.
So the bones:
Which CB would you recommend? Which CB do you use? Handheld? In-truck installation? Window antenna? Big firestick?

I have seen many posts about these ideas, but none of recent.

I know it's an item on the event checklist so it's definitely worth the talk.
Thanks!
-Derek

 

[ErikinSC]

I have a Midland Handheld for my Road King or to put into the wifes SUV when traveling.
I have a Uniden Bearcat 880 mounted in my F350 - to know which lane the traffic is moving best in.

The Cobra 29 is also popular, and comes in severall varities.

So long ass you have it tuned in with the SWR - either of 880 or 29 seems to be a popular choice.

 

[GLTHFJ60]

I have a Cobra 75WXST. I like it because the head unit is extremely small and can be mounted out of sight. All of the controls are in the microphone.

Agreed that the most important thing is to tune the SWR. I've got a meter if you need to borrow one.

http://www.amazon.com/Cobra-75WXST-40-Channel-CB-Radio/dp/B00005N5WW

 

[Mtbcoach]

X2 what Johnny said, had one in my FJC, installing one in my 80.

http://www.walcottradio.com/cobra-75wxst-remote-cb-weather-radio-p-520.html

 

[NCFJ]

X3 I have the same unit and never had an issue with it. I also have a meter if anyone needs to use it

 

[DeeRex]

Fantastic guys. Thanks so much for the recommendation. Added it to the short list of items. What kind of antenna do you use?
-D

 

[GLTHFJ60]

Firestick all the way. Choose your mounting location before you choose the antenna length. You want at least the top 1/3 of the antenna above your roofline for ideal SWR ratings.

 

[NCFJ]

I use a spring, quick disconnect (get a good one), firestick as Johnny described. Never had an issue, kept it clean

GOOD GROUNDS!!! throughout vehicle, antenna and radio

 

[SeanLX]

Not a big firestik fan here. They're stiff and even on a spring that's a lot of weigh whipping around. Maybe a mag mount like a little wil or plain wire larsen. Depends on where/how you want to mount it.

http://www.wearecb.com/larsen-nmo27c-low-band-27-30-mhz-cb-antenna.html

http://www.amazon.com/Little-Wilson-Magnet-Mount-Antenna/dp/B000I5NQA8


Don't forget to ask/check out the options at the next meeting.

 

[CharlestonG8R]

I went with a Cobra 18 WX ST ii. The stock double DIN Toyota head unit is rather large and the size is unnecessary, so I replaced it with a single DIN Kenwood and the CB. I also use a Firestik, but I have never tuned it... So my reception is really crappy...

 

[DeeRex]

I went with a Cobra 18 WX ST ii. The stock double DIN Toyota head unit is rather large and the size is unnecessary, so I replaced it with a single DIN Kenwood and the CB. I also use a Firestik, but I have never tuned it... So my reception is really crappy...

I have a Pioneer double din head unit I installed when I got the truck. It's iPhone controls and touch display are great, but it does have the side effect of finding another location for a CB. I like the idea of the handheld. I've seen a couple of installs on 80's with those so I like seeing what people have done.
Thanks!
-D

 

[DeeRex]

Not a big firestik fan here. They're stiff and even on a spring that's a lot of weigh whipping around. Maybe a mag mount like a little wil or plain wire larsen. Depends on where/how you want to mount it.

Don't forget to ask/check out the options at the next meeting.

Thanks, Sean! I will certainly do that. I hear you guys talk every month and it's been on my list, but we got separated at the last work day and with no AT&T service on the trails got turned around -- and it didn't help I didn't bring my URE map.

Do you notice any signal performance issues with window mount vs external whip style?

-D

 

[DeeRex]

I use a spring, quick disconnect (get a good one), firestick as Johnny described. Never had an issue, kept it clean

GOOD GROUNDS!!! throughout vehicle, antenna and radio

Since you have the quick disconnect, would that mean that you regularly remove the antenna? Or is it there "just in case"?
-Derek

 

[NCFJ]

I remove it at hotels etc, parked. Generally when at home.

 

[GLTHFJ60]

The quick disconnect part is by no means a requirement, just something you can add if you like. I never remove my antennae during operation or travel, but should I need to, I can loosen them with an adjustable crescent wrench.

 

[NCFJ]

Exactly, sorry if it seemed like it was required, he asked what we are running, that's what I run

 

[CharlestonG8R]

I'm not brand loyal, but the Cobra 75 WX ST would have been my 2nd choice if I'd gone with a Double DIN stereo. With the compact size, there are plenty of mounting options.

 

[NCFJ]

I might try a dash mounted CB in Heather's 80. I have the Cobra though so why buy another.

 

[SeanLX]

The cobra's nice but I like my midland handheld/wired.
http://www.amazon.com/Midland-75-822-Channel-CB-Way-Radio/dp/B00000K2YR

Antenna options.. mag mount comes down quick if you can reach it. I have one with a spring hand tight so I can unscrew it when I need to. They have quick disconnects and even motorized fold-over mounts so you don't have to get out.
http://www.dxengineering.com/search...ntenna-k9000-series-mobile-motor-drive-mounts

Remember springs, quick connects, etc. change SWR.

 

[DeeRex]

Thanks so much guys for all the information!
I'll definitely be talking more with you guys in Raleigh at the next meetup (next week?)
-Derek