Hello PDRUNEN:

The Hardware Store Aluminum tubing may not last in severe weather and
winds. Here in the Mojave Desert we see 90+ MPH winds at times.

Usually 6063 T8 or 6061 T6 Aluminum Tubing is used. The wall thickness
used is .058 inches. This will normally allow the Aluminum Tubing to
"Telescope" into each other in 1/8 inch increments. Like 1 OD (Outside
Diameter)inch .058 will allow 7/8 OD to fit or Telescope inside it.

But be advised wall thickness tolerances sometimes can be thicker NOT
allowing the Aluminum Tubing to "Telescope". The Aluminum Tubing
Manufactures DO NOT make Aluminum Tubing to "Telescope" unless it is
specified by a large order.

The Boom will be the hardest to design and make. Perhaps a older beam
boom can be used. If you look around at the different beam antennas you
will get the idea. The 6 meter beam shouldn't be a career project. I
suggest using split and insulated driven elements, a Hairpin Matching
System and a good Balun.

Maybe a local metal supply house can help you out.

Texas Towers sells Aluminum Tubing there at:

http://www.texastowers.com/aluminum.htm

Jay in the Mojave

PDRUNEN wrote:

Hi Group,

Where can I get some good grade material for a 6 meter beam elements?

Does a hardware store such as Lowes carry anything that would work for the
elements?

Beam size is 4 to 6 elements.

de KJ4UO