HRD25 vs Opek OP-SS-25F: which telescopic whip is right for you?
Looking at the Opek OP-SS-25F 25 ft Stainless Telescopic Whip (also listed as OPSS25F)? Here’s how it compares with the HRD25, using each seller’s published specs.
Quick answer
Choose the Opek OP-SS-25F if you plan to run an amplifier over 100 W, or want to pick one up at an HRO store today.
Choose the HRD25 if you run a typical 100 W or QRP radio and want the same size whip for less.
We make the HRD25, so we’ve been careful to say where the Opek OP-SS-25F does better too.
Specs side by side
| Feature | HRD25 (ours) | Opek OP-SS-25F |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $79.95 at Ham Radio Outlet ($69.95 on sale through Oct 31, 2026) |
| Extended length | 25 ft (7.6 m) | 25 ft |
| Collapsed length | About 27 in | 27 in |
| Sections | 14 | 14 |
| Weight | 24 oz (1 lb 8 oz) | About 20.8 oz (0.59 kg) |
| Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Power rating | Tested at 100 W SSB and digital. More customer feedback needed for real-world results above 100 W | 1,000 W |
| Mounting thread | 3/8-24 | 3/8-24 |
| Availability | In stock | In stock at HRO when we checked |
| Where to buy | Ham Radio Dude on Etsy | Ham Radio Outlet stores and website |
Where the Opek OP-SS-25F does better
- The seller rates it for 1,000 W. The HRD25 is tested at 100 W; more customer feedback is needed for real-world results above that.
- About 3 oz lighter.
- Sold in Ham Radio Outlet stores, so you can buy it today.
Where the HRD25 does better
- About $20 less at regular price ($59.99 vs $79.95).
- Same 25 ft length, 14 sections and 27 in collapsed size.
- Rated 5.0 out of 5 by Etsy buyers, with direct help from the maker.
What HRD25 owners say
Very high quality feeling. Just received and very happy. Thank you HRD!
Perfectly resonant on 20 meters fully extended
The Dude himself once again is able to source incredible and affordable products. Definitely keep an eye on this shop and it's other items avaliable.
See it in use
Common questions
Is the HRD25 a good alternative to the Opek OP-SS-25F?
For many operators, yes. The HRD25 is a good pick if you run a typical 100 W or QRP radio and want the same size whip for less. The Opek OP-SS-25F is the better pick if you plan to run an amplifier over 100 W, or want to pick one up at an HRO store today.
What is the main difference between the HRD25 and the Opek OP-SS-25F?
The Opek OP-SS-25F: the seller rates it for 1,000 W. The HRD25 is tested at 100 W; more customer feedback is needed for real-world results above that. The HRD25: about $20 less at regular price ($59.99 vs $79.95).
What bands does a 25 ft whip cover?
Used as a vertical with radials and a tuner or matching unit, a 25 ft whip covers roughly 30 m through 6 m. Lower bands need a loading coil.
Do I need radials with a telescopic whip?
Yes. A vertical whip needs a counterpoise: a few radial wires laid on the ground and connected to your mount. Without them the antenna won’t work well.
More comparisons
Where these specs come from
- Ham Radio Outlet: OP-SS-25F 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.
Opek OP-SS-25F are names and trademarks of their owners. Ham Radio Dude is not affiliated with or endorsed by them.