With 10 meters coming alive, I figured I would do a writeup/review of a hex beam I purchased from a hamfest in Colorado a few months ago.

The 10 Meter Hex Beam from Potabeam.com is a well-crafted and high-performance antenna designed for amateur radio enthusiasts who prioritize portability, ease of setup, and effective signal performance. Here’s a detailed review of its features and performance:

Build Quality:

The Potabeam 10m Hex Beam boasts a lightweight yet sturdy construction, making it ideal for portable operations. The materials used, such as fiberglass and stainless steel, are corrosion-resistant and durable, ensuring long-lasting use even in harsh weather conditions. The design is compact and collapsing, which is a significant advantage for hams who often operate in the field or have limited space for storage.

Performance:

This hex beam antenna is optimized for the 10-meter band, delivering excellent gain and directivity. The front-to-back ratio is impressive, allowing for effective rejection of unwanted signals, which is crucial in areas with high interference. Its directional nature provides the ability to focus on specific regions, enhancing signal clarity and making DX operations more efficient.

Portability and Setup:

One of the standout features of Potabeam’s design is its portability. Weighing in at only a few pounds, the antenna is easy to transport, making it perfect for POTA. Setup is straightforward, with clear instructions provided by the manufacturer. Most users can assemble and deploy the antenna in under 10 minutes, even if they lack extensive experience with beam antennas. The collapsible design also makes it convenient to pack up quickly after use.

Tuning and SWR:

The 10-meter hex beam offers a low SWR (standing wave ratio) across the 10m band, reducing the need for constant adjustments and ensuring efficient power transfer. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for minimal tuning hassles while operating.

Value for Money:

Considering its high performance, portability, and ease of setup, the Potabeam 10-meter Hex Beam offers great value for money. It is competitively priced, especially when compared to other hex beam antennas on the market. Its robust build and performance in real-world conditions justify the investment, especially for hams who frequently engage in portable or DX operations.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Easy to assemble and disassemble
• Excellent gain and front-to-back ratio
• Durable construction
• Wide SWR bandwidth

Cons:

• Limited to 10 meters without using a tuner (though specialized for this band)
• Requires a heavy-duty mast or suitable support structure for deployment

Conclusion:

Overall, the Potabeam 10 Meter Hex Beam is a fantastic choice for any amateur radio operator seeking a portable, high-performance directional antenna for the 10-meter band. Its combination of portability, ease of use, and impressive performance makes it stand out among other portable beam antennas. Whether for DX’ing or POTA, it’s a reliable and efficient solution.