Jack thats a great website for lightning protection. There is a lot there I
hadnt thought about and it is most useful for me. Joe I have recently bought
a secondhand hf antenna which didnt come with grounding straps either, cant
answer your question but am listening with interest, because I have wondered
that myself.
Its not a stupid question at all only a progression of your knowlege
banks!!!
Im sure there are guys who have a lot of experience in this field here in
the newsgroup and can tell us all about the benefits of grounding the braid
or even if we should.
My antenna is a Cushcraft A3S which sounds similar to yours.

Les
GM4JNW


"joe" wrote in message
...
I am thinking of buying a beam antenna for HF.
I have been told that some antennas have earthing straps and some dont.

The antenna I have seen is a tribander with traps for 10-15-20. It has no
earthing strap on.
If I were to put an earthing strap on to the braid side first to the pole
then earth the pole.

Will this A, give me protection against lightning and B, improve signals
recieved.
Will there be any other effect. ie: swr etc.

I understand the middle element is a driven element, with an insulator on
and there is a director and reflector.

sorry if its a stupid question !!!