Lil Dude 6 vs SOTABeams Carbon-6: which portable mast is right for you?
Looking at the SOTABeams Carbon-6 Ultra-Light 6 m Mast (also listed as SOTABeams 6 m carbon mast)? Here’s how it compares with the Lil Dude 6, using each seller’s published specs.
Quick answer
Choose the SOTABeams Carbon-6 if you count every gram for summit hikes and only hang very light wire.
Choose the Lil Dude 6 if you’re in the US, want a sturdier tip, or don’t want to wait on overseas shipping.
We make the Lil Dude 6, so we’ve been careful to say where the SOTABeams Carbon-6 does better too.
Specs side by side
| Feature | Lil Dude 6 (ours) | SOTABeams Carbon-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.42 | $55.77 plus shipping from the UK (before any import tax) |
| Extended height | About 19 ft 6 in (5.9 m) | 19.6 ft (6 m) |
| Collapsed length | 16 in | 17 in (43 cm) |
| Weight | About 15.2 oz | 11.1 oz (315 g) |
| Sections | 20 | 18 |
| Tip thickness | About 5.1 mm (thickest tip here) | 2.4 mm |
| Base thickness | About 37 mm (1.46 in) | 31 mm (1.2 in) |
| Included | TPU top cap with paracord loop, spare cap | Carry bag |
| Where to buy | Ham Radio Dude on Etsy | SOTABeams (ships from the UK) and dealers |
Where the SOTABeams Carbon-6 does better
- Lightest mast here, about 4 oz less than the Lil Dude 6.
- Lower price before shipping.
- Comes with a carry bag.
- A long track record with SOTA operators.
Where the Lil Dude 6 does better
- Ships from the US, so no overseas shipping or import fees.
- Tip is about twice as thick (about 5.1 mm vs 2.4 mm), so the top is much less likely to snap.
- Packs 1 in shorter (16 in collapsed).
- Thicker base for a firmer grip in a ground spike or clamp.
What Lil Dude 6 owners say
Not much to say, this mast is exactly as described. I really do like it a lot. This is the 2nd one I have bought, because it is what it is, a great, quality mast from someone who just wants to make quality stuff and not rip people off.
Thanks DUDE!!! Always great products. Just put my pre-order in for my second HRD25 vertical whip!! Patiently waiting.
Very happy with the mast, perfect for light setups/travel
Common questions
Is the Lil Dude 6 a good alternative to the SOTABeams Carbon-6?
For many operators, yes. The Lil Dude 6 is a good pick if you’re in the US, want a sturdier tip, or don’t want to wait on overseas shipping. The SOTABeams Carbon-6 is the better pick if you count every gram for summit hikes and only hang very light wire.
What is the main difference between the Lil Dude 6 and the SOTABeams Carbon-6?
The SOTABeams Carbon-6: lightest mast here, about 4 oz less than the Lil Dude 6. The Lil Dude 6: ships from the US, so no overseas shipping or import fees.
Can a 20 ft carbon mast hold a vertical antenna?
These masts are made for light wire antennas, like an end fed half wave or a dipole hung from the tip. They are not made to hold heavy verticals or beams at the top.
Is a carbon fiber mast safe near power lines?
No. Carbon fiber conducts electricity. Always look up before you raise any mast, and stay well away from power lines. YOU WILL DIE! 💀
More comparisons
Where these specs come from
- SOTABeams: Carbon-6 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.
SOTABeams Carbon-6 are names and trademarks of their owners. Ham Radio Dude is not affiliated with or endorsed by them.