Thanks for the suggestion. I have decided to make my own. There are
suggestions on the web that radio shack makes some good twin lead. However,
I still would like to put up a balun. What would be the best balun for me? I
intend to operate on 75 meters.

I admit to being a ham since 1956. However, I have not been very active and
now that I am retired would like to get on low band. I am not very
knowledgeable on all the types of antennas. I do know how to make a random
wire work but do not want that type of antenna again.

Also, to keep the twin lead insulated, do I need to coat the ends where they
are shorted?

I do appreciate the successful reports of using this type of antenna. What
might happen if I put an antenna tuner on the transmitter end and tried to
operate a folded dipole for 75 meters on 40 meters?

I cannot safely use my trees until they are thawed. I cannot climb them
myself and I would not pay someone to do this until it is safer.

Michael

"Denny" wrote in message
oups.com...
Michael, please do not spend good money for something you can build
yourself for a fraction of the cost, and learn good things in the
process...
An 8X10 piece of plexiglass storm window from the hardware store will
supply strips for the end and center insulators... A chunk of 300 ohm
TV twin lead will supply the folded dipole material... A roll of coax,
some solder, and a pieces of small rope, and you are in business... A
hack saw will cut the plexi (so will a skill saw or table saw)...
Why not make one for 10 meters as a starter until spring comes... This
can be hung between two trees or whatever so it is at least head high
and will give you some fun when the band opens here and there..... You
can check the formula for length versus resonant frequency...

denny / k8do