EASY DIY - Antenna Mast Spike You can Put in a backpack!

Looking for the ultimate portable antenna ground mount solution? Whether you're using a K8MRD POTA 20 or the HRD LD6, I've got you covered with this easy Ground Mast Mount Solution.

Notes from AFTER recording:

1. Schedule 40 PVC. If you have a K8MRD POTA 20, the PVC you want is 1/2 inch Schedule 40. If you are using a HRD LD6, the PVC you want is 3/4 inch.

2. 3 sections on the PVC, spaced evenly, allows for better stress distribution. putting too much pressure on ONE point WILL break things easier. It's like pressure / counter pressure on a wrist... SNAP. I demonstrate that here: youtu.be/KAOUeMLuboc

3. Other videos about mounting solutions - youtu.be/-YbOhaqPuFo

4. Picnic table mount was done utilizing a Super Clamp - youtu.be/RPD1BoERw78

5. I ended up making multiple revisions of this, as you may be able to see in the video. The black version is Polycarbonate and I love it. Although, when Poly carbonate fails, doesn't just crack, it fails. For this, I have been testing ASA filament, which seems to work fine. ASA filament is strong, UV protected (for the most part) and has been holding up well. Prototypes I have sent out are included with M10 threaded inserts (metal) into the plastic. I did this for more strength where the tent spike meets the mast holder. Speaking of tent spikes: i tried many different sizes, These JPC12 like spikes are 9.5 inches, and they work relatively well. Smaller spikes do not. PROBLEM: They JPC 12 spikes are aluminum, and the tip may dent or flatten easily

6. I talk about durability and torture tests. I have more testing to do and sent a few of these prototypes out to others for testing. I will sell these shortly after enough testing is concluded. I would still recommend using the least amount of force necessary to accomplish the task (getting it in the ground) Until they go for sale, if you want to make your own for personal use, feel free (Thingiverse and Printables files linked below for both the POTA 20 and LD6): This is also a great time for me to find a good source on metal M10 threaded inserts.

7. I spoke about Epoxy, give it a shot if you want. I like Super Glue..

8. The cool thing about the threaded spike is it can disassemble and fit right into my Gigaparts Explorer like backpack, right next to my mast. - youtu.be/zr5Ecwd4sYU

9. Many people have asked for a complete rundown of my portable setup. I hear you and will do so as soon as I can. I am working on testing wires on the mast, then my commander video, which I wanted done 4 months ago. After that, I will go through my gear, setup, and takedown.

10. I forgot...I also sent one of these to Mike (K8MRD) for his Pota20. I will be excited to hear his feedback (good or bad).

If you are looking for the spikes, these are the ones I used. This is an affiliate link, which means i make a commission based off the sale. If you don't like that, not an issue, please feel free to buy elsewhere -

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ - s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DcwhpYH

Thingiverse files (still have to upload printables)

thingiverse.com/thing:6776940