Dude Spike 2.0 vs Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike: which mast ground spike kit is right for you?
Looking at the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike Ground Mount Kit (LD6 size) (also listed as Freedom Spike LD6)? Here’s how it compares with the Dude Spike 2.0, using each seller’s published specs.
Ham Radio Dude designed the original Dude Spike, a PVC tube with a threaded cap and stainless spike that turns a telescopic mast into a stand-alone ground mount. Other makers now sell kits in the same style.
Quick answer
Choose the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike if you want it ready to use at the lowest price, or want the lightest kit possible.
Choose the Dude Spike 2.0 if you want a stainless spike, machined parts, your choice of spike thread, or to save about $14 by gluing it yourself.
We make the Dude Spike 2.0, so we’ve been careful to say where the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike does better too.
Specs side by side
| Feature | Dude Spike 2.0 (ours) | Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $22.99 (DIY kit) to $40.00 (fully built) | $36.99 at Nomad GearWorks when we checked |
| Fits | Lil Dude 6 (LD6) mast | Lil Dude style masts (34.8 mm) |
| Spike material | Stainless steel | Aluminum |
| Spike thread | Your choice: M10 or 3/8-24 | Not listed |
| Mast tube | 1/2 in PVC, pre-cut and included, with machined ABS end parts (not 3D printed) | 3D printed ASA |
| Threaded insert | Brass, made in USA, pre-installed | Pre-installed (type not listed) |
| Assembly | Your choice: fully built, or a DIY kit with everything cut to size (just glue it together) | Comes assembled, ready to use |
| Length with spike | About 21 in | Not listed |
| Weight | About 11.6 oz (stainless spike) | Not listed |
| Where to buy | Ham Radio Dude on Etsy | Nomad GearWorks website |
Where the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike does better
- Ready to use for $36.99, about $3 less than our fully built option.
- ASA plastic holds up to sunlight better than ABS.
- Aluminum spike is lighter than stainless.
Where the Dude Spike 2.0 does better
- Your choice: a DIY kit for $22.99 (about $14 less) or fully built for $40.
- Machined ABS end parts, not 3D printed.
- Stainless steel spike instead of aluminum. Stainless is harder and stiffer, so it holds up better in hard, rocky ground.
- Choose M10 or 3/8-24 spike threads.
- Made-in-USA brass threaded insert.
- The original design, rated 4.95 out of 5 by 175 Etsy buyers.
What Dude Spike 2.0 owners say
Great seller and awesome communication.
Great devices as usual! Amazing guy!
The unit was not glued, and it fell apart when I opened the package.
See it in use
Common questions
Is the Dude Spike 2.0 a good alternative to the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike?
For many operators, yes. The Dude Spike 2.0 is a good pick if you want a stainless spike, machined parts, your choice of spike thread, or to save about $14 by gluing it yourself. The Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike is the better pick if you want it ready to use at the lowest price, or want the lightest kit possible.
What is the main difference between the Dude Spike 2.0 and the Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike?
The Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike: ready to use for $36.99, about $3 less than our fully built option. The Dude Spike 2.0: your choice: a DIY kit for $22.99 (about $14 less) or fully built for $40.
How do I get a spike into hard ground?
Pour a little water on the spot first to soften the soil, then tap the spike in with a rubber mallet. Avoid steel hammers, which can damage the parts.
More comparisons
Where these specs come from
- Nomad GearWorks: Freedom Spike listing
- Our own specs come from our product listings.
We checked every listing on October 30, 2026. Prices and stock change often, so check the seller before you buy. Where a seller doesn’t publish a spec, we say “Not listed” instead of guessing. Spot a mistake? Message us on Etsy and we’ll fix it.
Nomad GearWorks Freedom Spike are names and trademarks of their owners. Ham Radio Dude is not affiliated with or endorsed by them.