TWAYRDIO VHF UHF Inflatable Handheld Radio Antenna, SMA-Male Dual Band Portable High Gain Two Way Radio Antenna for YAESU VX-6R FT-60R Retevis RT82 RT3 TYT MD-380 MD-UV380

The Good- Packs small- Good reports from testingThe Bad- Cheap pump- Strain on the transceiver's antenna mount- No noticeable difference over stock antennaA good antenna can make a huge difference to the performance of small, handheld transceivers. This inflatable antenna designed to work on 70cm VHF and 2m UHF frequencies looks like it could be a useful addition to a backpack or tucked in the emergency box in the garage. Fully inflated it appears to act as a full wave 70cm antenna and just under half wave 2m antenna, it is definitely bigger than the OEM kit antenna, but is it any better.I tested it on my old Kenwood HT, and it installed easily. However, when pumping up the antenna the pump did fall apart in my hands, and because the pump is threaded it requires delicately handling. Once inflated the antenna is solid enough to keep its shape, and didn't deflate over more than 24hrs. Attaching it to the HT is a bit difficult as the antenna flexes and wobbles when trying to screw it on to the male threads. This did cause me some concern about the amount of stress the long antenna was putting on the HT antenna mount and I found myself holding it far more carefully than I do with the stock antenna.Once on I tested it against a range of local repeaters. There seemed to be a small boost in transmit strength as I could get a reaction from distant repeaters I usually struggle to reach. However, in conversation I was told that although conversations on with the new antenna were very clear (full quieting reports) there was no difference in strength or clarity between it and the OEM HT antenna.So in conclusion it works as designed but I didn't see a big boost in signal over the original antenna. I'll be keeping it in my emergency box just in case I need a backup. 3 out of 5 stars.

I live in Montana and am often in remote areas. This allows me to instantly have greater range with a longer antenna. It fits neatly in a small space and is easily deployed. It includes a small pump to inflate and a deflation valve to store.Very pleased.