Rick wrote:
In fact, when
you take losses into consideration a simple inverted vee beats it at all angle
over 10 degrees and equals it below 10 degrees.

The average gain of a 1/4WL vertical monopole
with ground-mounted radials is in the ballpark
of 0 dB in all directions.

The average gain of a horizontal 1/2WL dipole
is in the ballpark of 6 dB in two directions.

It is extremely difficult, if not impossible,
for a vertical monopole to achieve 6 dB gain
in any direction.

It is extremely difficult, if not impossible,
for a horizontal dipole to achieve 0 dB gain
in all directions.

Comparing omnidirectional antennas to directional
antennas is like comparing apples and oranges.
Decide which characteristics are desirable and
erect whatever antenna works best for you.

Hint#1: A five-element Yagi makes a lousy net
control antenna.

Hint#2: A monopole with 120 radials has a lousy
front-to-back ratio.
--
73, Cecil http://www.w5dxp.com