Best CB Radio Antenna Reviews And Top Picks In 2018

The citizen band radio or CB radio can be generally defined as a public two-way radio, there exist several classifications of this device but the best-known form is the voice communications which came into existence in the 1970s. This type of communication is popular mostly among car drivers in the United States, but the will need the best CB radio antenna to enjoy full benefits.
An antenna receives electromagnetic waves. The transfer of electrical current and electromagnetic waves is a continuous flow. A citizen band (CB) radio antenna traps radio frequency signals which its receiver later converts to electrical signals, and also converts electrical signals from the transmitter into radio frequency signals. The citizen band (CB) antenna has another function that it is designed to do, and it comes to play in the tuning. The antenna will have to radiate radio frequency signals, and this is something that should be done by making sure the antennas length matches the wavelength of the radio frequency being transmitted.
It is very important to choose an antenna tuned to the frequencies used. It ensures a transformation between two forms of energy. In transmission, it converts electrical energy supplied by the station into radiant electromagnetic energy, and vice versa into the reception. The ideal antenna for the 27MHz should have a theoretical wavelength of 11 meters. Under these conditions, a 1/4 wave elementary dipole should measure 2.75 meters. To improve the efficiency, the antenna is extended: 1/2, 5/8, or 7/8 wave.
The use of a self (winding copper wire at the base) allows for models of different size, even more efficient. Naturally, the smaller the antenna, the lower the performance. However, it is difficult to install an 11m antenna on a vehicle. Even in a fixed station, the antenna itself is rarely 11m high.
Ideally, a whip antenna should be 1/4 wavelength or 2.75 m. This does not pose too much problem on a house roof, but it is more difficult on a vehicle (especially in indoor parking) where it is usually shortened by a “self” (coil) at the base.
In all cases, care should be taken when making and connecting an antenna. In particular, it is necessary to use a coaxial cable of good quality, to adjust the length of the antenna so as to limit the standing wave rate (SWR) with the help of the device named SWR meter, external or integrated to the station itself. If this SWR value is too high, it lowers performance and increases potential nuisance to neighbors (TV or broadcast reception may be affected). The waves being poorly dispersed, their poorly dissipated power can damage the output transistor of the CB station and even destroy it and cause a costly failure.
However, getting the best CB antenna for your car, truck etc. can be a little daunting task and this article is here to help you know the best CB radio antenna and its kits to choose from. We will discuss in details about the best CB radio antenna in circulation today.
Contents
- 1 Best CB Radio Antenna Comparison
- 2 The FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna
- 3 Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount
- 4 TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
- 5 FireStik 4ft Black Firefly
- 6 Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror
- 7 Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna
- 8 Cobra HG A1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna
- 9 Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
- 10 K40 K-30 35″ 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna
- 11 Browning BR-28 High Performance Broad Antenna
- 12 FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip
- 13 ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259
- 14 Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna
- 15 Frequently Asked Questions
- 16 Buying Guide: What is the Best CB Antenna?
- 17 Final Words
Best CB Radio Antenna Comparison
Image | Name | Dimensions | Price |
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FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna | 38 x 3 x 1 inches | |
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Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount | 5 x 6 x 37.5 inches | |
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TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit | 15.5 x 4.2 x 1.5 inches | |
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FireStik 4ft Black Firefly | 5 x 5 x 50 inches | |
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Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror | 52 x 5 x 5 inches | |
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Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna | 17 x 1.4 x 5 inches | |
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Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna | 21 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches | |
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Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna | 78.7 x 2.8 x 2 inches | |
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K40 K-30 Stainless Magnet Antenna | 37.3 x 6.5 x 3.3 inches | |
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Browning BR-28 High Performance Broad Antenna | 48 x 6 x 5.8 inches | |
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FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip | 62 x 5 x 5 inches | |
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ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259 | 44 x 2 x 2 inches | |
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Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna | 2 x 3.9 x 27.9 inches |
The FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna

When talking about top lightweight antennas, this US made antenna is not just lightweight but built durable and less likely be disturbed in wind because of its smaller gauge. Its smaller gauge helps reduce wind drag on the mount and also the antenna, and it just doesn’t perform awesomely, it also gives the best ultimate in flexibility. One of its flexibility can be seen in its dual or single antenna setup, a tunable tip for SWR setting in which once you’ve dialed in, there is nothing to worry about apart from the open road and such feature sets it among the best performing mobile CB antenna.
Details Of The FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna
FL antennas are American made and built with American materials, it is built light and reduces the stress of mounting, the stress is reduced by more than 60% because of wind drag and its light materials. It is customary to FL antennas to find Firestick’s patented tunable tip. Aside from snap tuning, the Firestik FL3-B design enlarges the antennas bandwidth and also improves its power-handling capabilities. However, you should note that all FL antennas can be used in co-phased (dual) configuration on any vehicle that is being built with any type of material. Although in its single antenna configuration, when a metallic ground plane it is handy it can be used on cars, vans, motorcycles and ATVs.
Basically, in line with all CB antennas, the FL antennas are fine-tuned (SWR) in their last mounting location. You will really appreciate this tunable tip antenna if you have only used a non-tunable tip antenna before.
Generally inclusive to all FL, to maintain a balance between ruggedness and flexibility, the Firestik utilizes a glass fiber reinforced tube that is a custom blend. To prevent short windings that are often common with non-Firestik antennas, Firestik is wound with double insulated copper wire.
Features Of The FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna
- It has a tunable tip
- Its construction is lightweight
- It is made in America
Pros and Cons of FireStik FL3-B Firefly Antenna
Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount

The Wilson Little Wil CB antenna may look like the underdog in the game but do not be mistaken it is tiny but tough, really little but mighty and crazily brutish.
This antenna is built from high-impact thermoplastic that will make it last for years of use, and will firmly stay in place because it’s been equipped with a 10-ounce magnet, even when you are racing at a high speed. Its whip (36) strikes an excellent balance between convenience and performance, if you have a realistic height limitation, this is ideal for you. It is tall enough to constantly provide 4 miles of range, also when you are on the road or packed, it is short enough to avoid being a hassle.
Generally, Wilson Watt Little Wil is among, if not the best magnetic CB antenna.
Details Of The Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount
This an affordable and compact antenna for your van, trucks or car. It is simple to install, and this antenna is the best magnet mount CB antenna as it will outperform its similar competitors and have I mentioned it has just everything you need? The magnetic base, coax cable and the antenna whip all to make it work right out of the box.
The Little Wil’s holding strength will manifest as you ride down a bumpy and rough road, also as you increase your speed to move past another vehicle. Wilson utilizes a 14-gauge wire to deliver for a small antenna its maximum power-handling task which is approximately 300 watts, also its coiling method (coil-wind) permits air flow around the wire.
In its convenience aspect, the Little Wil, is only 38” tall when mounted to the trunk of most cars, thereby without damaging the car or the antenna, allowing you to safely pull inside your garage.
Features Of The Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount
- Coil is heavy duty and utilizes 14-gauge copper wire
- Built with high-impact thermoplastic
- It is weather ready
- Great performer
Pros and Cons of Wilson 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount
TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit

The Tram 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna is more ideal for professional use, it is one of the best CB base antennae with a versatile flexibility of options you can use it for, it works with various radio receivers and handheld scanners. The Tram 703-HC Center Load Antenna kit works almost just out of the box as it includes all you need to be in communication when you are on the go such as a 3.5 magnet mount, stainless steel whip, a shock spring, a 17 RG58 cable with PL-259, and finally a 2’ tall antenna that takes care of all CB frequencies. This CB antenna is will keep you connected whether you are in the city, in the mountains, in the open roads or in the country.
Details Of The TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
The Tram 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna kit is budget friendly, the included cable RG58 PL-259 measures 17 feet in length. Being one of the best CB base station antenna it can cover all CB frequencies in your area with great quality. Its possession of a stainless whip makes it durable, its height is 2 feet and it also includes a shook spring as well.
In its center load design, it comes with a magnet mount which its measurement in diameter is 3.5 inches. It also allows you to use an SWR meter with it as it possesses an adjustable antenna top.
This Tram 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna kit is generally for those whose who need a decent antenna, it doesn’t sacrifice your roof space, it is very functional and affordable too.
Features Of TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
- Ability to cover every frequency
- It comes with 3.5’’ magnet mount
- It includes a shock spring
- It comes with a stainless whip
- It includes a 17ft RG58 cable with PL-259
- It is 2FT tall
Pros and Cons of TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
FireStik 4ft Black Firefly

The Firestik is a well-known brand, and among the best CB radio antenna for a real reason. Their products are of top-notch quality and still very reliable. The black Firefly model of the Firestik brand is more flexible after coupling a spring, yet another interesting aspect is that you won’t have to think about its stability. It is a strong antenna that is designed to overcome some really powerful winds. Firestik has made this product affordable even with all the pro features this antenna boasts of, it is generally one of the best mobile CB antenna manufactured by Firestik, whereas some other CB radio companies have moved their factories to Asian countries like China, they still remained in the United States. Below we discuss its details.
Details Of The FireStik 4ft Black Firefly
This 4feet Black firefly has a very solid construction and also it is a 5/8” wave Citizen Band antenna. This antenna competes for the best cb antenna for semi truck because of its built lightweight despite being strong. As you will require a threaded antenna mount, the 4ft Black Firefly will fasten into a standard 3/8”-24 threaded antenna mount, and also make it easier to use by providing a fitting coax. However, depending on the position you are aiming to attach your antenna to your car, there might be a need to buy a spring that is flexible which fits right in the mount and the antenna.
Features Of FireStik 4ft Black Firefly
- It is manufactured in the United States
- Possesses 4ft 5/8 wave
- It is lightweight
- Bare hands tunable tip
Pros and Cons of FireStik 4ft Black Firefly
Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror

The Aries brand of the antenna is another top name when talking about the best CB radio antenna. This antenna possesses a 4’ fiberglass whip, and it’s manufacturers integrated into it a 6’ high-quality coax with molded PL-259’s. This heavy duty antenna can handle up to a 500-watt power and also built stable with a wide range of frequency reach. It offers a good value for its price and its quality cannot be unnoticed in the CB antenna industry.
Details Of The Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror
Aries single antenna is a tool that intakes and transmits electromagnetic radio signals which makes communication possible on radio, it has an excellent range that protects the equipment from harsh elements and enables one to communicate across a much vaster distance. Aries Antenna is 8 feet long and also works on Uniden CB band above 3:1
However, Aries Antenna is easy to install, solid works great and above all enables good communication, it’s a factory tuned field that is adjustable and has 3/8×24 thread black color.
Features Of The Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror
- It has a 4′ fiberglass whip (black)
- Can handle up to a 500watt power rating
- It is a heavy-duty Antenna Stud W/3/8×24 thread
- Possesses 6′ high-quality coax with molded PL-259’s
- Heavy duty double groove aluminum mirror mount
Pros and Cons of Aries-10822 Single Antenna Mirror
Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna

The Midland was established in the in 1972, and now it has the brand has become a key player in the industry of radio communications covering a very broad and different range of products which includes the CB antenna. They are dedicated to building quality products and the Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB antenna is among if not the best performing mobile CB antenna. They Midland uses the most advanced and latest technologies to cater for all types of communication needs and the Midland 18-2442, being a center load mobile antenna in possession with a magnetic mount makes it one of the best mobile Cb antenna.
The Midland 18-2442 has in its features 17-7 whip that is made of stainless steel, and also a relief spring which prevents or reduces the chances of the whip being damaged. This model of antenna utilizes a plastic coated magnetic base for optimal adherence and also for the best efficiency it utilizes a center-loaded coil. This model comes prewired, also works without any issues with Midland radios.
Details Of The Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna
Just like all enthusiasts or newbies in the CB world who are just starting to explore this hobby, the Midland 18-2442 really needs to be tuned finely for maximum efficiency. This antenna will surely reward you with a very powerful range and 3 miles of distance, but that is if you follow the instructions correctly. It weighs 1.6 pounds and if you decide to pay extra money for a jumper cable and an SWR meter it will surely pay off especially for this antenna.
Features Of The Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna
- It weighs 1.6 Pounds
- Comes prewired with connector and cable
- It is a center-load magnet mount antenna
- Possesses a 17-7 stainless whip
Pros and Cons of Midland 18-2442 Mobile CB Antenna
Cobra HG A1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna

Cobra Electronics the manufacturers of the Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load small mount 100 Citizen Band antenna are no newbies in the industry of CB radio, in fact, they created the first CB radio in the 60s. In the modern world, they have continued their immense growth thanks to their innovative products which is suitable for both enthusiasts and professionals.
Details Of The Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna
The Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna is one of the best CB radio antenna great, built by the Cobra Electronics company. It possesses a magnet mount, and it can handle 100-watt power and its frequency range is 26mhz-30mhz integrated a scratch-resistant base pad and a 16-ft braided coaxial cable. The Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna is 21-inch magnet mount antenna and it attaches easily to the trunk lid or roof of your car, this antenna also offers weather channel capability. Another thing this antenna is good at is the tuning which is been done easily and quickly, with push values like 1.1 on the 1 to 40 channels.
Many magnet mounted antennas have a problem weak magnet which gives the stress of keeping the antenna in place correctly. However, this antenna has a very strong magnet enough to cut out stress with a nice range with decent clarity. This antenna is among the top quality best CB radio antennas in the market today.
Features Of Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna
- It is a small mount, baseload CB antenna.
- Can Handle 100-watt power
- Possesses 26mhz-30mhz frequency range
- It possesses weather channel capability
- Includes a braided coaxial cable
- Possesses a scratch-resistant base pad
Pros and Cons of Cobra HG A 1000 Base-Load Small Mount 100W CB Antenna
Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna

This antenna is undoubtedly one of the best CB radio antenna in the market now. The Solarcon possesses a well balanced and solid fiberglass base. Its capacity is 2000 watts and that makes it give off a very strong signal. It is easy to tune and it is quick to attain various SWR readings. The Solarcon would surely require some assembly but the manufacturers have added easily to follow instructions to make this easy also. The Solarcon if compared to other CB antenna in the market, the signal is great. Let’s see the details of this great antenna.
Details Of Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
This antenna is more geared towards those looking for something more professional. This antenna works very well with the GPK-1 ground plane and it is the top gain fiberglass antenna making it the best fiberglass CB antenna on the market.
The Solarcon A-99 possesses a very high handling power of 2000 watts, and not only that, it is greatly insulated to take up to 14,500 volts. This antenna is capable of withstanding strong winds because it is equipped with a heavy-duty mounting plate making it come up also amongst the best CB base station antenna.
This Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna is lightweight that you can easily and efficiently install it by yourself with any issues and help.
This is also the United States made an antenna that is very affordable, surprisingly because of the quality and capability it offers. Today, it is quite rare to see our locally made products with such high quality.
Its performance is also perfect with low SWR readings almost out of the box.
Features Of The Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
- This is an Omni-Directional Fiberglass Base Station CB Antenna.
- This antenna can Handle 2000 Watts
- It is tuneable for very low SWR reading
- Its weight is 1 pound
- It is Insulated up to 14,500v
- The antenna radiates-9.9 DBI Gain.
Pros and Cons of The Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
K40 K-30 35″ 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna

The K40 magnet antenna has a great has a great commitment to product excellence. They have developed a powerful relationship which makes them keep coming back into the competition for the best CB radio antenna. Let’s review the details of the Citizen Band magnet mount stainless antenna K-30.
Details Of K40 K-30 35″ 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna
Looking at the specifications/features of this model, you will observe a few things about the K-30 stainless magnet mount antenna. In other to stop or prevent any breakage, it contains a 15 feet already wired RG-58AU with a 95% shielded coax cable. The thickness of this model is very balanced and a bonus of a PL259 connector is also included in the cable. The K-30 stainless magnet has a great advantage, everything you need is contained in the product. It has a coaxial cable and a magnetic base for your CB radio connection. It is able to transmit and receive about 6-8 miles away. They mount is quite potent and it won’t scratch your car.
The PL259 connector that is also included in the cable suits the job just fine. This model offers amazing features and coupled with the fact that it’s quite affordable, the K40 K-30 Stainless Steel Magnet antenna is a very mind-blowing deal that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Features of K40 K-30 35″ 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna
- This model is able to handle 300 watts AM(ICAS)
- It contains a 15 feet already wired RG-58AU with a 95% shielded coax
- PL259 is included in the cable
- It also contains 35 inches, 7-17 stainless steel whip antenna
- 180-degree tip radius
- It weighs 1.9 pounds
Pros and Cons of K40 K-30 35″ 300 Watts Stainless Steel Magnet Mount CB Antenna
Browning BR-28 High Performance Broad Antenna

Fancier antenna for your truck? The Browning BR-28 is decent and among the best CB antenna for truckers. This BR-28 antenna features a stainless steel shaft, a stainless steel whip, and a triple copper coil, chrome plated. It is 63″ high, let’s look into its details.
Details Of Browning BR-28 High-Performance Broad Antenna
The Browning BR-28 antenna is capable of handling 10 KW of power, and that makes it very unique to other Citizen band antennas. Truckers especially can make use of this antenna because it works efficiently on all Citizen Band frequencies, surprisingly it does not even need a spring. This antenna has very great potentials, and probably also above the fiberglass antennas.
This antenna emits quality all around, it possesses a reliable and strong stainless steel construction.
Considering the description of this antenna, the SWR readings are in accordance with its expectations. With 3 magnet mount, it I expected to cover 1.1-1.5 SWR all 40 frequencies.
Features Of Browning BR-28 High-Performance Broad Antenna
- It can take up to 10,000W
- Possess a triple copper coil that is chrome plated
- Its frequency is 25MHz–30MHz
- Possesses a 3-Way Mount stainless steel
- It’s Stainless Steel Whip is 49″
- It’s Stainless Steel Shaft is 63″
- It weighs 1.4 pounds
Pros and Cons of Browning BR-28 High-Performance Broad Antenna
FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip

The FireStik CB antenna is one of the antennas that make the list of best cb antennas but can’t be said to be all that amazing. This Firestik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip antenna model is very efficient and does not fluctuate at the level of their quality across all their models. It features a tunable tip and is a bit on the larger side 5′ or 152cm. It is also said to be a heavy-duty antenna.
Details Of FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip
The performance and efficiency of this antenna are one of its amazing main features. Following the calibration with an SWR meter, this antenna allows you to transmit and also receive for miles. However, unlike other antennas, the tuning part is very simple but you need to proper caution when tuning because of the sensitivity of the tuning knob. In cases of extreme weather conditions, the Firestik antenna does not fail to perform efficiently. It’s of quite an affordable price and considerable size.
Considering the performance of this antenna and it being budget-friendly, the Firestik antenna is the best recommendations to make. I don’t think you will find a better deal than this antenna because this one is really a steal. Let’s check its features out.
Features Of FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip
- 5/8″ wave
- 5′(152cm)
- It is a heavy duty antenna unlike most antennas
- Possesses a tunable tip
Pros and Cons of FireStik 5 Feet II Tunable Tip
ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259

ExpertPower is also deserving a mention in the best CB radio antenna in this modern world. The manufacturers of the ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259 built this antenna mainly to boost the signal and make communications more clear. This antenna is a stable mobile antenna and is among the best mobile CB antenna in the market today. The manufacturers of the ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259 built it with a direct ground lightning protection and stainless steel as its radiating element material. There are other products from the ExpertPower, such as Citizen Band radios, earpiece, mic etc. This shows they are no newbies in the industry. Let’s see the details of this CB antenna.
Details Of ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259
This antenna covers a broad frequency range which stands at 144/430 MHz, it’s impedance is 50 Ohms. The extra signal boost this antenna gives off is excellent. It comes with a PL259 connector and has a height of 42.8 inches, it’s a lightweight with just a weight of 14.4 ounces. This antenna is easy to install and also very budget friendly considering its features that it offers. It’s features, pros and cons show more reason while this antenna deserves recognition amongst the best CB radio antenna.
Features Of ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259
- Its frequency range is 144/430 MHz
- Has its VSWR less than 1.5
- This antennas impedance is 50 Ohms
- It utilizes a vertical polarization
- Its frequency gain is 3.5 dB (144 MHz) /6 dBi (430 MHz)
- Utilizes and Omni radiation
- Can input up to 150 watts
- Direct ground lightning protection
- It’s is only 42.8 inches in height
- Has PL259 as its connector
- Stainless steel is its radiating element material
Pros and Cons of ExpertPower Stainless Mobile Antenna PL-259
Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna

Here we meet another product of the FireStik company, it is well deserved from them for their product to appear more than thrice in our reviews for these best CB radio antenna. The FireStik FS-2BK model is another show of superiority from this American company which can be used in both dual and single Configurations making it yet another quality flexible antenna from these guys. Let’s see the details of this antenna.
Details Of Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna
As with other models of the FireStik antenna, they are durable, flexible and offers a clear communication signal. It’s wavelength is 5/8 design and it’s rated at 300 Watts, and as for its utilization, it can be used in both dual and single configurations. The FireStik FS-2BK can be easily tuned with bare hands with its tunable tip but requires fine-tuning. It is a lightweight antenna only weighing 8 ounces with an extremely high-performance loading Coil.
Generally, the United States-based company has proven its worth in the CB radio antenna industry and they’re surely recommended by all.
Features Of Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna
- This antenna needs fine-tuning
- It offers up to 300 watts
- Just like its cousins, it possesses a tunable tip that can be easily tuned with bare hands
- Built with a High-performance loading coil
Pros and Cons of Firestik FS-2BK 2′ Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the most frequent questions are asking about best cb antenna. Just click on the question and get the answer.
- If you live in a valley, the surrounding mountains can block your signal.
- If you live on a hillside you will get greater distances in one direction than in another.
- The large buildings of the cities make communication in urban centers difficult.
- There are many types of antennas. Some work better than others. The height at which they are located is very important. In general, the higher the antenna is placed, the better.
- There are Citizen Band (CB) transceivers that allow selecting the emission power but without exceeding the maximum authorized 4 watts (12 watts of the peak for emissions in SSB).
- The nature of radio waves within the frequencies used in CB (shortwave) makes their behavior unpredictable. Sometimes there is a propagation phenomenon called ‘skip’ in which there is a rebound of radio waves in the upper layers of the atmosphere, resulting in communications over very long distances (hundreds or even thousands of kilometers).
There are many other uses of the Citizen Band (CB) among which are:
- Chat with friends.
- Chat with other people.
- Make new friends.
- Play and entertain.
- As a hobby.
- Stay in touch on the road.
- Inform about traffic.
- Help in case of emergencies.
There are regulations in force in some countries like Spain, although unlike in other countries, do not allow using the Citizen Band (CB) for professional or business communications. The Citizen Band (CB) is not to maintain long-distance communication, although this is possible sporadically on occasions when atmospheric conditions allow it.
The Internet and the network of mobile phone users need the electricity network to supply energy. While a car battery or a good solar panel system is enough for a CB station to work.
Without a wiring network, conventional telephony and internet systems are unable to function. In most cases, without a telephone line, there is no communication. While the Citizen Band uses radio waves and therefore the physical interconnection of the stations is not necessary to establish communication.
The mobile and fixed telephone services and internet require the payment of fees and expenses. While the use of CB is free and in most countries, does not even require a license or special authorization or payment of fees.
While mobile telephone can be carried around, some advanced services require coverage networks to be based on special technologies. While through the devices of Citizen Band, it can also emit digital signals, transporting data to and from anywhere: car, home, boat, heavy and industrial vehicles, etc.
In case of catastrophe or in emergency situations, cable communications can be seriously affected and even totally unused. While under these same conditions, radio-based media, including the Citizen Band (CB), are the only viable way to establish bridges and communication routes.
Internet and telephone communications have global coverage but depend on the maintenance conditions in which the infrastructures on which they are based are located. While the radio stations in most countries is capable of overcoming great physical barriers and its waves can spread across all types of borders.
Any last generation mobile phone or average computer equipment can be expected to cost more than the Citizen Band (CB).
Buying Guide: What is the Best CB Antenna?

The quality of the antenna is the most important determinant of how well your citizen band (CB) will work. CB antennas are made of a metal wire that should ideally be around eight and a half feet long. Since this is not always possible, the wire is wrapped tightly along the body of the antenna to the CB antennas shorter and more convenient. Loaded with better, charged-base and center-charged antennas are the three types of CB antennas. Each of these models has its own characteristics that are more suitable for particular applications.
Consider the Vehicle
The type of vehicle in which the CB antenna is to be mounted is one of the main determinants of the type of antenna it must have. If you need the best CB radio antenna for a car, the best type is top-loaded or base-loaded models. For jeeps and semi-trucks, choose the fiberglass antennas loaded overhead. These conventional antennas make use of the vehicle’s metal chassis to transmit the radio signal. Therefore, they will not work in any vehicle that does not have a metal chassis. In case you are using a vehicle of this type, use a groundless airplane (NGP) type fiberglass-loaded antenna that is designed to work in the absence of a metal chassis.
Choose A Good Brand
The performance of the system is as good as the antenna you are using. Considering that CB good quality antenna brands are very budget friendly, choose a brand that gives you a good reception quality, without worrying about the cost.
Consider The Convenience
The higher the antenna, the greater the distance at which messages can be transmitted and received. Although the ideal duration is around eight and a half feet, consider whether you will be able to enter and exit a garage or do it beyond a drive-through with this antenna length attached to the roof of your vehicle. Smaller antennas are convenient but do not provide optimal reception. Find out if you can use an accessory that allows you to remove the CB antenna when you need to go through places with little slack.
Buying Guide Conclusion
The Citizen Band antenna is the type of antenna used with Citizen Band radios, or CB radios. These radios are used as communication between professionals such as police officers, truck drivers and taxi drivers. They can also be used by anyone, such as how to check for emergency situations, or just as a hobby. Selecting the best CB radio antenna is an important means to ensure that you can always access the channels you need. However, we will summarize this buying guide in brief points listed below:
- Look at CB antenna that can be mounted on the roof of your vehicle. You will have a better reception.
- Find out if the CB antenna includes a grounding chassis. If so, it should be as short as you can get it for your vehicle. However, you can go for a longer CB antenna. Very short antennas will pick up radio signals less accurately.
- Mount Size Factor: The larger the CB antenna, the larger the support should be.
- Input for the length of the coil wound around the antenna: The more the coil used, the better the reception on the antenna will be. Center-charged antennas tend to have the best efficiency when it comes to coil usage.
Final Words
Even in the smartphone age, the walkie-talkies are used to communicate inexpensively on construction sites, during hiking, geocaching or sporting events. On the other hand, it is becoming increasingly rare to see long antennas in front gardens or on cars used by CB radio operators.
With the advent of mobile phones and the Internet, a large proportion of users have migrated to these communication channels. In the early days of CB radio, which was released in 1975, CB radio served primarily as a wireless phone replacement for everyone.
Today CB radio is predominantly a playground for amateurs who are interested in radio technology but do not have the need to build or modify devices like the amateur radio itself. Unlike amateur radio, CB radio does not require an examination.
CB radio is basically the precursor of today’s social networks, the attraction is to make contacts with unknown, but like-minded people even if this has become more difficult today because of sharply reduced numbers of participants in CB radio.
In addition, CB radio works with manageable technology. The user, therefore, feels that he is not at the mercy of external infrastructure whose functionality he does not understand. A particular attraction lies in the fact that it is possible to bridge the greatest possible distances with the relatively simple means of CB radio by optimizing one’s own system and exploiting atmospheric conditions.
Under certain atmospheric conditions, radio-wave reflections on the ionosphere can cause overreach, ie connections over several thousand kilometers.
In addition, truck drivers represent a very large group of users throughout Europe and, of course, in the motherland of CB radio, in the US.
But also car drivers take great advantage of the CB radio in the United States and some other regions. In addition, there are motorway maintenance depots, which point to automatic CB radio equipment on construction sites.
CB radio is possible by hand, built-in radio device for the car or base station at home.
The basic equipment in station operation is radio, power supply and cable, plug and a CB radio antenna. We always ought to ignore important useful things such as the CB radio antenna which can indeed save a life. However, if you are a newbie in the CB antenna world, we hope this article has provided you with in-depth knowledge of the best CB radio antenna for you to choose from in this modern age.