Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-24J 16.2-Inch Ultra Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios
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Purchase options and add-ons
Antenna | Radio |
Brand | BTECH |
Color | black |
Impedance | 50 Ohm |
Maximum Range | 42 Centimeters |
Product Dimensions | 0.5"L x 0.1"W x 16.5"H |
About this item
- Enhanced Signal Strength: Experience a boost in communication with the Nagoya NA-24J Dual Band Amateur Antenna, offering a gain of up to 3.5 dBi. This increase in performance ensures a substantial enhancement in your radio's signal strength, leading to clearer and more reliable communication.
- Ultra Flexible and Durable Design: Tailored for outdoor adventurers, the Nagoya NA-24J features an ultra-flexible whip design that excels in harsh outdoor environments. Its exceptional flexibility renders it more resilient to physical stress than standard OEM radio antennas, making it an ideal companion for camping and outdoor activities.
- Precision Engineered for Optimal Performance: The Nagoya NA-24J epitomizes precision engineering, with each antenna undergoing meticulous testing and fine-tuning. This dedication ensures peak performance and unmatched communication efficiency in its specified frequency range.
- Wide Compatibility with SMA-Female Connector: The Nagoya NA-24J antenna, equipped with an SMA-Female connector, offers extensive compatibility with a range of radios, including popular models from Baofeng and BTECH. This feature guarantees smooth integration with various amateur radios, enhancing the utility and adaptability of the antenna in diverse communication settings.
- BTECH is proud to be in the USA, which allows you to have the best available local support for any issue that may arise. BTECH only engineers and develops radio products. That brand focus allows you to have the best available radios and accessories with the most features, with real USA warranty and support.
Additional Details
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This Item Authentic Genuine Nagoya NA-24J 16.2-Inch Ultra Whip VHF/UHF (144/430Mhz) Antenna SMA-Female for BTECH and BaoFeng Radios | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $20.98$20.98 | $18.98$18.98 | $20.98$20.98 | $20.98$20.98 | $11.99$11.99 | $48.89$48.89 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it Apr 17 - May 8 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Quality of material | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.7 |
Weatherproof | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.1 |
Durability | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 3.9 |
Value for money | 4.1 | 4.1 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.8 | 4.1 |
Portability | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | — |
Sold By | BaoFeng Tech | BaoFeng Tech | BaoFeng Tech | BaoFeng Tech | ABBREE | BaoFeng Tech |
maximum range | 42 centimeters | 8 inches | 39.6 centimeters | — | — | 20 feet |
impedance | 50 ohm | 50 ohm | 50 ohm | 50 ohm | 50 ohm | 50 ohm |
antenna description | Radio | Radio | Radio | Radio | Radio | Radio |
Product Description
Nagoya NA-24J Ultra Flexible 16" Whip Antenna (SMA Female)
Elevate your communication experience with the authentic Nagoya NA-24J Dual Band Amateur Antenna, boasting an ultra-flexible whip design and delivering a performance increase of up to 3.5 dBi.
Nagoya Ultra Flexible Whip Antennas are indispensable for outdoor and camping activities. Engineered for harsh outdoor environments, these antennas offer exceptional flexibility, making them more resilient to physical stress compared to standard OEM radio antennas.
More than just robust, the Nagoya Ultra Flexible Whip Antennas are highly effective in enhancing your radio's signal strength. With this antenna, you're not only maintaining connectivity; you're experiencing a significant enhancement in reception, ensuring superior communication in outdoor adventures.
Superior Engineering for Unmatched Performance
At the heart of its superior performance lies our commitment to precision engineering. Each antenna undergoes a rigorous process of individual testing and fine-tuning, ensuring that it operates optimally within its specified frequency range.
Whats in the Bag
- Nagoya NA-24J
- Antenna Washer
Nagoya Antennas: Where Quality Meets Clarity
About Nagoya's Process
Each Nagoya antenna undergoes meticulous individual analysis, guaranteeing seamless compatibility with your radio.
Renowned for their dependability, precision, reliability, and affordability, Nagoya Antennas stand as a benchmark in the industry.
Ensure the longevity and reliability of your radio by choosing genuine Nagoya antennas, synonymous with trust and excellence.
Budget antennas mimicking the Nagoya brand, do not mimic the Nagoya quality
Beware of knock-off antennas that imitate Nagoya's brand and similar model names but fall short in quality and craftsmanship. These low budget antennas are made with substandard materials can compromise your radio's functionality. These imitations overlook the critical design elements, such as the precision-engineered loading coil, which is vital for achieving peak performance.
Enhance Your Reception with Optimal Antenna Length
The effectiveness of an antenna is significantly influenced by its length. Longer antennas are more proficient at amplifying weak signals and picking up difficult-to-detect frequencies, ensuring a broader and stronger reception range.
On the other hand, shorter antennas offer the advantage of portability and ease of handling.
To find the perfect balance between performance and convenience, consult our detailed comparison chart below, helping you select an antenna that meets your specific needs and usage scenarios.
Nagoya NA-24J
BTECH: We are proud to be here in the USA
BTECH radios are designed and supported right here in the USA. A BTECH label means you are getting a radio with real US based support, and development! If you ever have an issue, our team will be prompt, knowledgeable, and supportive to ensure your radio operates exactly as it should.
Technical Specs:
- Frequency Center Tuning: 144 - 430MHz
- Gain: 2.15 - 3.5 dBi
- Wave: 1/4λ - 5/8λ
- Optimal Transmit Frequency Range: 140-148MHz, 420-450MHz
- Connector Type: SMA-Female
- Impedance: 50Ω, VSWR: ≤ 1.5
- Direction: Omni-directional
- Max Input Power: 10W
- Antenna Length: 16 inches / 41cm
- Package Contents: Nagoya NA-24J, Antenna Washer
NA-24J | NA-717 | NA-771R | NA-810 | NA-F30 | NA-F30G | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
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4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
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4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
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4.5 out of 5 stars
996
|
Antenna Type | Ultra Whip | Ultra Whip | Retractable Telescoping | Compact Stubby | Tactical, Flexible | Tactical, Flexible |
Center Tuned Frequency (MHz) | 144 - 430 | 144 - 430 | 144 - 430 | 144 - 430 | 144 - 430 | 462 |
Gain (dBi) | 2.15 - 3.5 | 2.15 - 2.15 | 2.15 - 3 | 0 - 1.5 | 2.15 - 3.5 | 3.5 |
Wave | 1/4λ - 5/8λ | 1/4λ - 1/4λ | 1/4λ - 1/2λ | 1/4λ - 1/2λ | 1/4λ - 1/4λ | 1/4λ |
Power (Watts) | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 15 | 15 |
VSWR: ≤ 1.5, Impedance: 50Ω | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
SMA (F) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
SMA (M) | ||||||
Height | 16" (41CM) | 8.25" (21CM) | 15.6" (39.6CM) | 2.5" (7CM) | 30" (76CM) | 30" (76CM) |
User | AMATEUR | AMATEUR | AMATEUR | AMATEUR | AMATEUR | GMRS |
NA-320A | NA-701 | NA-701C | NA-701G | NA-771 | NA-771G | |
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Add to Cart
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Add to Cart
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Customer Reviews |
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
996
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
17,736
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4.5 out of 5 stars
996
|
Antenna Type | Standard Whip | Standard Whip | Standard Whip | Standard Whip | Standard Whip | Standard Whip |
Center Tuned Frequency (MHz) | 144 - 225 - 430 | 144 - 430 | 155 - 455 | 462 | 144 - 430 | 462 |
Gain (dBi) | 2.15 - 2.15 - 3.5 | 2.15 - 2.15 | 2.15 - 2.15 | 2.15 | 2.15 - 3 | 3 |
Wave | 1/4λ - 1/2λ - 5/8λ | 1/4λ - 1/4λ | 1/4λ - 1/4λ | 1/4λ | 1/4λ - 1/2λ | 1/2λ |
Power (Watts) | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
VSWR: ≤ 1.5, Impedance: 50Ω | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
SMA (F) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
SMA (M) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Height | 17.7" (45CM) | 8.25" (21CM) | 8.25" (21CM) | 5.5" (14CM) | 15.6" (39.6CM) | 15.6" (39.6CM) |
User | AMATEUR | AMATEUR | MURS - COMMERCIAL | GMRS | AMATEUR | GMRS |
UT-72 | UT-72G | UT-308UV | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars
5,011
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4.4 out of 5 stars
333
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4.4 out of 5 stars
5,011
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Antenna Type | Plug and Play Magnetic: Simple, Instant Setup with Magnetic Base (includes adaptors for handheld or mobile radios) | Plug and Play Magnetic: Simple, Instant Setup with Magnetic Base (includes adaptors for handheld or mobile radios) | Plug and Play Magnetic: Simple, Instant Setup with Magnetic Base (includes adaptors for handheld radios) |
Center Tuned Frequency (MHz) | 144 - 430 | 155 - 462 | 144 - 430 |
Gain (dBi) | 1.7 - 3.5 | 1.7 - 3.5 | 1.7 - 4.15 |
Wave | 1/4λ - 5/8λ | 1/4λ - 5/8λ | 1/4λ - 5/8λ |
Power (Watts) | 80 | 80 | 80 |
VSWR: ≤ 1.5, Impedance: 50Ω | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Connector | PL-259 + SMA (F) | PL-259 + SMA (F+M) | SMA (F) |
Height | 20.27" (51.5CM) | 18.7" (47.5CM) | 20.55" (52.2CM) |
Cable | 13' (4M) RG-58A/U | 13' (4M) RG-58A/U | 10' (3M) RG-58A/U |
User | AMATEUR | GMRS-MURS-COMMERCIAL | AMATEUR |
Looking for specific info?
Product information
Product Dimensions | 16.2 x 0.5 x 0.1 inches |
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Item Weight | 1.06 ounces |
ASIN | B01H2HOKI6 |
Item model number | Nagoya NA-24J |
Customer Reviews |
4.6 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #40 in Two-Way Radio Antennas |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Frequency | 144 MHz |
Special features | Only BaoFeng Tech is Authorized to Resell Nagoya |
Other display features | Wireless |
Color | black |
Department | Two Way Radio |
Manufacturer | BTECH |
Date First Available | July 5, 2016 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the service, quality and signal quality of the antenna. For example, they mention it's well-built, has a decent receive and transmit capability and improves signal strength and clarity. Some appreciate the elasticity, portability, and value of the product. That said, opinions are mixed on the fit.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the antenna. They say it's well-built, and works great. Some say that it'll improve the stock antenna that came with their handheld radio. Overall, most are satisfied with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...One of the standout features of this antenna is its durability. It feels robust and well-made, perfect for outdoor use...." Read more
"From what i can tell, this antenna is well made and works as promised...." Read more
"...This is very well made and fits the radio perfectly. Range is limited but the sound is clear and easy to understand. Good value for the price." Read more
"...That's the only option.These are damn good antennas for what you pay for them...." Read more
Customers like the performance of the antenna. They say it works better than expected, is effective, and is great for its intended purpose. Some customers also mention that it works well on all three bands and is less likely to break. Overall, customers are satisfied with the performance and recommend it to others.
"...The antenna's performance is outstanding, significantly improving my signal strength and clarity compared to the stock antenna...." Read more
"From what i can tell, this antenna is well made and works as promised...." Read more
"Works great and is more robust than the one that came with my radio" Read more
"Works well, just as advertised. Nagoya antennas prove their worth out in the field. Much better then the rubber ducky." Read more
Customers like the signal quality of the antenna. They say it has a much better transmitting range, and has boosted their signal strength and clarity. Some say that it has decent receive and transmit capability, and is a little cumbersome at 15.6". Overall, customers are satisfied with the performance and quality of this antenna.
"...The antenna's performance is outstanding, significantly improving my signal strength and clarity compared to the stock antenna...." Read more
"...This is very well made and fits the radio perfectly. Range is limited but the sound is clear and easy to understand. Good value for the price." Read more
"...I have tested it and the encrypted audio is completely unintelligible...." Read more
"...Nagoya NA-771 (144/440) is a great alternative and the Tx/Rx coverage is very noticeble...." Read more
Customers like the value of the antenna. They say it's a fantastic investment that will improve their radio experience. They also say it has strong value, is reasonable, and worth having in your kit.
"...It's a fantastic investment that will undoubtedly improve your radio experience." Read more
"...Good value for the price." Read more
"...My TYT radio doesn't even show it in the settings. Accessories are inexpensive and if you want it to feel more like a professional radio, just get..." Read more
"...Worth the money, either way." Read more
Customers find the antenna extremely flexible and can be bent into a complete O without an issue. They say the rubber section is very very flexible and doesn't put any stress on it. The antenna takes a lot of flexing without permanently bending it. Customers also say it bends easily and is pliable. They mention that the antenna is incredibly versatile, allowing them to communicate on 144-220-440Mhz.
"...1.25 meters, and 70 centimeters (144-220-440Mhz) makes it incredibly versatile, allowing me to communicate on multiple bands with ease...." Read more
"...That the antenna seems to be very flexible and well built..yes." Read more
"...They are extremely flexible without sacrificing gain.Wish they made a SMA for my FT5DR." Read more
"...It's also flexible enough that when I have the radio on a chest harness, the last several inches of the antenna curve over the front portion of my..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the service. They mention that the product was delivered quickly, the shipping was fast and easy, and the packaging and shipping were great. The performance is undeniable, and it performs very well. The antenna was in good packaging and appears to be the genuine product, making it easy to install.
"Love this whi. It has great send and receive on my Baofengs. They are extremely flexible without sacrificing gain...." Read more
"...a backpack, the antenna has to curve a fair bit to fit, which it does quite easily...." Read more
"...to work just as well as the 771 on VHF, but the NA-24J gives me better UHF performance than the 771 ever did...." Read more
"Great product delivered quickly and fits my radios perfect and functions as advertised. Highly recommend." Read more
Customers like the portability of the antenna. They say it's very portable, easy to carry, and compact. They also appreciate the lightweight design and the fact that it doesn't take up much space. Customers also mention that the antenna doesn''t make the radio top heavy.
"...I have seen antennas made from steel tape measures, and they are lightweight and portable. This is very well made and fits the radio perfectly...." Read more
"...Lol. I with the extended battery, it's just the rite size and weight in your hand (with the clip attached) it's all the little things...." Read more
"...down to a very small size: shorter than the rubber duck and small enough for a pocket. Fully extended, it is still reasonable. Fits all my radios...." Read more
"...Static was reduced significantly.Being collapsible means better portability." Read more
Customers are mixed about the fit of the antenna. Some mention that the SMA-Female connector is a perfect fit for their Baofeng radio, while others say that it does not fit or work correctly on the BF-F8HP radio. The O-ring fits nicely inside the circular housing of the radio case. However, some customers also mention that it's a bit long for using the radio and that there is s substantial gap in the fit.
"...The SMA-Female connector is a perfect fit for my Baofeng radio, ensuring a secure connection...." Read more
"...Even worse it does not fit my Baofeng radio.Both your website and Amazon state that the NA-771 and 771R work on ALL Baofeng models...." Read more
"...This is very well made and fits the radio perfectly. Range is limited but the sound is clear and easy to understand. Good value for the price." Read more
"...The only, minor drawback?The length of the antenna, and that doesn't bother me. That the antenna seems to be very flexible and well built..yes." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I had two issues. One, the rubber spacer was missing from my shipment (I didn't need it, but may with another radio in the future), and two, it didn't fit the radio I got it for (BaoFeng GT-3TP). Thankfully I have one of the UV-5R series which it fit just fine.
Amazon wanted to send me a replacement antenna and return this one. That seemed wasteful so I contacted the seller on their sit to ask if they could just send the spacer, and to ask them to correct the description regarding the GT-3TP; as the seller said it was compatible with ALL baofeng models both on Amazon and on their website.
The seller "Katy" was rude and unprofessional I felt (and maybe I was a little in hindsight?)
Our correspondence is as follows:
Me:
"I bought the Nagoya NA-771R antenna from you through Amazon. It did not come with the rubber spacer that was supposed to be included. Even worse it does not fit my Baofeng radio.
Both your website and Amazon state that the NA-771 and 771R work on ALL Baofeng models. I have a GT-3TP that it absolutely does not fit. The antenna base is too wide and will not even allow the antenna to even start threading on.
I also have a UV-5RV2+, which it DOES fit, so I am not going to return the antenna since it can still be used, but I wanted it for the GT-3TP which transmits at 8 watts, giving me the best possible distance out of the radios I own.
First I would like to know, can you send me the rubber spacer to complete my order? Amazon wants to send me a whole new antenna and have me return the one I got just to get a tiny piece of rubber out to me. I'd rather not waste your money or resources when it can be thrown in an envelope in regular mail.
Second, do you HAVE an antenna that will fit my GT-3TP? Or some kind of adapter/extension? It seems that the GT series is the red-headed-stepchild of BAOFENG radios. Its hard to find any of the accessories, and I don't even think they are being manufactured anymore. But I own it already and it's the most powerful unit I have. I bought both radios years ago wanting to get into HAM radio and haven't even got to put them through their paces yet since I'm just now finally getting around to getting my license. I'd rather not have to buy another radio just yet.
Third, since apparently the 771 won't work with the GT-3TP, would you please correct your website, and the Amazon product page for the NA-771 and NA-771R so other people aren't misled into purchasing an antenna that doesn't fit?
Thanks,
****** (me)"
Response:
"The GT-3 was designed by a distributor (radioddity) who has decided to make it incompatible with all UV-5R accessories and aftermarket products
We would suggest that you complain also to this distributor to why they decided to make it incompatible with standard SMA accessories
Katy"
This was of course, very unsatisfying and struck a nerve.
I replied:
"Katy,
Thank you for telling me it's somehow radioddity's fault that YOUR product description meant ALL BaoFeng models, EXCEPT for the radios that are branded all over as BaoFeng, but happened to be designed by the distributor radioddity. However, it doesn't change the fact that it could easily be noted in your compatibility listing that it (and all radioddity?) models will not work with the product you are selling. The GT3-TP DOES say BAOFENG right on the front while not seeing radioddity anywhere (at least on the outside).
Now, if you're done pointing fingers and placing blame elsewhere, I'd appreciate it if you would be so kind as to read the remainder of my polite (I thought) email to address my other questions. After all, I did take the time to be clear that I was still keeping the antenna, since it IS still of use to me. I'll even remind you so you don't have to look search for everything you ignored.
I will assume you don't sell anything for the GT3, based on your somewhat childish, yet exceedingly unSUPPORTive response... I['d] simply like to know if you can send me the rubber spacer that was supposed to be included... unless THAT is radioddity's fault as well. 🙄 If not, I will simply return the antenna to Amazon after they send a whole new antenna (WITH spacer). I was just trying to save BaoFeng Tech and/or Amazon some money on shipping (no good deed, right?).
I feel it might also help if I remind you "WHO YOU ARE". This is copied from your website's home page:
BEGIN QUOTE ... [I formatted text for emphasis, which isn't supported here as far as I can tell, but it's in the email]
WHO WE ARE:
We not only sell BaoFeng, but we have taken the time to improve BaoFeng for everyone. When you buy through BaoFeng Tech, you are supporting new radios and advancements from the affordable radio movement. From testing BaoFeng radios and fixing bugs to preparing the user's guide - we pay attention to every single detail. We are the only BaoFeng distributor who supports all of our products directly. We take pride in what we sell, we know our products, and we are licensed radio operators. We don't just market radios, but we believe in and use our radios!
END QUOTE
So, please show how much YOU KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS and pay attention to THE DETAIL that your antenna, which YOU SUPPORT DIRECTLY, does not fit SOME BaoFeng radios, therefore not ALL MODELS. Since you TAKE PRIDE IN what you sell, I have every confidence that BaoFeng Tech will want to make sure to add the couple words required to prevent customers from falling prey to the evil distributor that is radioddity ever again! Furthermore, I'm also pretty sure that BaoFeng Tech will definitely want to get me the spacer that was left out of my purchase either directly or through Amazon. Don't worry, I'm sure it was an accident, with how much PRIDE YOU TAKE in what you sell. No hard feelings here.
I apologize if my language or tone of voice in this email upsets you in any way. I tried to make sure my response didn't upset you any more than how upset I was from your response to my initial outreach for support. Especially considering how many, like me, may be JUST getting into amateur radio, and might not know that all BaoFeng radios are NOT created equal, nor is there one antenna to rule them all. Thankfully, you have made me aware, and if this foray into amateur radio continues to hold my interest... I will be sure to try and find out if the radio I am about to buy was actually designed by a distributor who, rather rudely, purposely designed it so that that particular model is as incompatible as possible with any aftermarket accessories I might like to get for it, and punish them by not giving them my business.
Your soon to be BIGGEST fan,
****** (Me)"
Katy never responded....
I don't tell you this to steer you from baofeng tech's products. Amazon took care of the issue for me and was extremely helpful.
This is to tell others that the GT-3TP (and the whole GT series?) Isn't compatible like they said it was, to avoid dealing with them directly if possible, and a little to shame their customer "support".
They still make great products in my experience, and do not regret my purchases. In fact, I will likely purchase more products from them, just not DIRECTLY from them. 😁
This mod should be done to any antenna that makes contact with the raised ring around the SMA antenna connector in baofeng radios. That's is regardless if it causes the antenna to appear crooked or not. The misalignment puts asymmetrical forces on the SMA connector on the radio which is soldered directly to the circuit board. This can cause the solder joint to crack. This is the worst scenario because the radio will appear to function properly but the SWR will be a mess and most likely cause the radio to fail or only perform at a fraction of its potential and you will never know why.
With the antenna off the radio, take a exacto knife. The kind that have the blades with score lines in it to snap off segments to keep the blade sharp. Hold the antenna upside down and angle the blade so that the cut you make will taper the plastic outer diameter base inward toward the metal connector.
Don't try to make it all in one single cut. You will be tempted and you WILL cause more harm than good. Hold the antenna and knife tight and with the hand that's holding the blade, use your thumb for extra precision and force. NOW.....
Make small 4 to 6 millimeter cuts at a 45 degree angle or so. This is not surgery and you can clean the cuts up with a file or sandpaper when you are done. Remember what I said at the beginning of this review about weather you care about looks or not.
After round 1 of cuts. Test fit the antenna. If you were carful and took it slow. You should not have any visible gap between the antenna and radio. If you do, you can just live with it, or use the soft rubber washer that should have come with the antenna. I have not had to do this but if I did. I would try and find a soft foam washer. Not the rubber one.
Good luck! Remember, the goal here is not to shorten the antenna base. Only to remove some material from the side of the base so it will fit into the areas around the antenna. All this could have been avoided had baofeng just used a normal male SMA connector on the radio and not put it on the antenna. It is what it is tho. Adapt or die. The one rule of life we must all follow.
Now, being the proud owner of 4 RD-5R, and 2 BF-F8 HP radios. I understand that some antenna studs are lined up better than others with these radios. It's kinda a shame because the alignment comes down to how much time the tech in China took when soldering the antenna base to the radio circuit board. 2 extra seconds of focus and it's beautiful. Get a guy who doesn't give a damn and well.....
In extreme cases, you may need to trim the bezel surround on the actiual radio. You can't adjust it by loosening the lock ring, I've tried. It's locked in place. That's the only option.
These are damn good antennas for what you pay for them. Considering that, I will gladly spend a few minutes making a few mods to get a clean fitment. From time to time I have to exchange one but that's the price you pay when you go cheap/inexpensive.
Personally I absolutely love my RD-5R radios. They are challenging to learn all the features. After some trial and error and watching a lot of YouTube videos, I have a good handle on the digital side of things but even after a year I still have a lot to learn when it comes to certain group and contact settings and getting the radios to communicate properly and utilize all the features when in digital mode and encryption turned on and in groups. Learn how to implement the encryption! Sure a determined person could brake it but in a emergency situation or in a disaster zone. People will be out there looking to take what others have and every layer of security you can utilize, the safer you are. Imagine if you contacted someone to meet you in a disaster situation and it's been weeks since food ran out. Anyone who is listening to your conversation will be very interested in what you are up to and what you have and where you are staying. Even tho it's not 256bit AES encryption. It's more than enough to keep people from listening in.
You would need a specific setup to brake the encryption on these radios and on less someone planned ahead of time to do this exact thing. You will be safe on the knowledge that nobody except who you want will be listening in. I have tested it and the encrypted audio is completely unintelligible. One cool feature is that when you stop talking, the radio uses the last bit of what you said and keeps making noise so someone with a scanner won't even know when you start and stop talking let alone have any idea the words you are speaking.
I have other, much more expensive, digital radios and honestly, I come back to my RD-5R! Lol. I with the extended battery, it's just the rite size and weight in your hand (with the clip attached) it's all the little things. That make it a great radio. Like how the screen is always on because it's a simple lcd screen like a calculator. How almost all features can be activated or adjusted on the radio, in the field, without the need to be connected to a computer for every little thing. Just recently I wanted to add a password to my radio and on my rd-5d, I looked it up in settings and had it programmed in 5 min. My TYT radio doesn't even show it in the settings. Accessories are inexpensive and if you want it to feel more like a professional radio, just get the BL-5L extended battery. Really that's ia must mod along with the NA-701 and NA-771 antenna. Each radio you have should have a standard and extra long antenna. Those two things you should just buy at the same time as the radio.
When it comes to antennas and batteries. I suggest purchasing directly from the baofeng site. Too many people on Amazon return things they have screwed up then it gets resold to you. A radio is easy enough to return but going back and forth with antennas and batteries gets old fast and there are far too many knock off antenna and batteries being sold on Amazon and ebay. People will also buy the real antenna or batt. Then return a fake one they have in its place. If it's shipped from a Amazon facility, nobody will catch it.