When it comes to buying a CB antenna for your RV, there are few things you must consider before. Besides choosing one that fits right into your budget, you must also think about the durability factor, its performance capabilities, frequency, and different channels, etc.
There are also abundant options available depending on the type and installation methods, such as fiberglass, magnet mounting, whip antennas, center-loaded antennas, and many more. If you are looking for the best CB antenna for RV, we know how easy it can be to get overwhelmed by all the options.
Product | Name | Editor's Rating | Check Prices |
---|---|---|---|
K40 Model K-30 CB Antenna | 5 out of 5 | ||
Wilson 305-492 T2000 Series | 5 out of 5 | ||
FireStik FS-4BK | 4.5 out of 5 | ||
TRAM 703-HC Center Load Kit | 4.5 out of 5 | ||
STRYKER SR-A10MM Magnetic Mount CB Radio Antenna | 4 out of 5 |
But do not worry, we can help. Check out our top 10 recommendations for an antenna that will be perfect for your RV. We’ve spent painstakingly long hours to analyze these products and present you their features, strong, and weak points.
10 Best CB Antenna for RV
If you plan to communicate with other RV drivers and truckers, adding a CB antenna to your RV is the most convenient way to go. In our list below, we will be discussing the most favorite products in the market and why we think one of them would be the best antenna for you.
1. K40 Model K-30 CB Antenna
This antenna is one of the toughest products out there for RV customers. It has been pre-wired with an RG-58AU 95% Shielded Coax cable strand to ensure its durability and prevent any breakage.
This 17-7 stainless steel Whip antenna may be small but is extremely versatile and garners a maximum capacity of 300-watts. As such, you barely have to worry about faulty signals and bad communication. It is designed for heavy usage and is equipped with safety features that will always leave you assured.
You can cut down the length to obtain an SWR below 2.0 on channels 1 and 40, however, you must remember that the shorter the antenna, the harder it would be to lower the SWR into a decent amount.
Due to enough cable given, you can attach the K-30 virtually anywhere on your vehicle. The 10-ounce magnetic roof mount is very secure and does not move even when driving at high speed. It even has a 180 degree-tip which eliminates the need for a ball.
Pros:
- Tough built to prevent breakage
- Equipped with a strong magnet to keep it secured
- Excellent performance capabilities
- Affordable price range
Cons:
- Finishing is quite flat
Verdict
Overall, the K-30 is a good name brand that is easy to use and install and provides well enough value for money. It is well-known for its toughness and durability, and you can expect this antenna to work correctly for a very long time.
2. Wilson 305-492 T2000 Series
The Wilson 305-492 may be slightly pricier, but it makes by being extremely sturdy and having prolonged longevity. It is trusted for its reliability and durability by a lot of truckers, especially by those who spend a lot of time on the road.
The product is made with mostly metal and is engineered to prevent rust formation despite its heavy use. It is quite lightweight but comes with a heavyweight mount that leaves no room for a mishap.
While the installation guide can help you understand how to set up the antenna, you might face some difficulties during SWR tuning due to the grub screws. If you find them too troublesome, you can always replace them with stainless grub screws.
The larger model of this antenna is around 4 feet, so it will be hard to fit onto a handheld radio. It is equipped with a 5-inch black shaft and 49-inch stainless whip to generate 3500-watts of capacity. This increased power handling is a result of the larger coil housing design.
Pros:
- Equipped with a strong mounting system for a secured attachment
- Comes in a standard black color to provide sharp contrast against vehicle bodies with light color
- Easy to install and use
- Strong composition with added technology for rust prevention
Cons:
- Price range is high
Verdict
The Wilson 305-492 is an expensive model but provides excellent value due to its longevity and sturdiness. However, its parts are slightly wonky, which is unexpected given the money spent and the Wilson name brand.
3. FireStik FS-4BK
If you are a new RV owner looking for a low-cost antenna, you should try checking out the FireStik FS-4BK. It has been designed to be easy to install and use so that beginners can start operating them right away.
The physical reach of this antenna at such a low cost is incredible. You can easily get a frequency of 26 MHz to 30 MHz with this antenna, which is optimal for CB frequencies that are in the 27 MHz range.
It works well with both lighter and bulkier modes of transport, but due to its lightweight designs, it is more suitable for the former. Besides, since it runs on batteries, you can only take short recreational trips with it. Remember to keep extra batteries on hand in case of emergencies.
The FS-4BK has a capacity of only 900 watts at 5/8 wavelength, but you still get excellent transmission with it. Moreover, it is super convenient to fine-tune, and you can easily get a 1.2 SWR with little to no effort. You need to adjust it outdoors and make sure you have a robust metal ground plane to get the best result.
Pros:- Budget-friendly for people with both smaller and larger vehicles
- Durable and sturdy, and can resist damage
- Optimal to cover CB wavelength and frequency
- Powerful receiver to transmit messages
Cons:
- Requires battery to operate
- Only suitable for short, recreational trips
Verdict
The FireStik FS-4BK NGP antenna is budget-friendly for those who only spend a short time on the road. If you are just starting your journey with a CB radio, this product is an apt starting option.
4. TRAM 703-HC Center Load Kit
The TRAM 703-HC Center Load Antenna Kit is another budget pick that we could not help but include in our list. It is equipped with a 17-feet long RG58 PL-259 cable which can cover every CB frequency within your vicinity.
The stainless-steel whip of this product is built to provide enhanced durability and comes with a shock spring and 3.5” magnet mounting attachment. It is convenient to fine-tune, and the long cable just makes everything way easier.
Due to its center load design, you can have this installed onto the center roof of your car and will find it undamaged even after driving at a crazy speed. Some Amazon customers have claimed to find it intact after driving at 120 mph speed!
This product stands at 2 feet height and has an adjustable antenna along with an SWR meter. Initially, you might get a reading of 3.0, but you can lower it to 1.1 on channels 1 and 40.
Pros:
- Straightforward and uncomplicated to assemble
- Easy installation and take off which is quite convenient when switching vehicles
- This antenna matches with the SWR easily and is compatible with almost all radios
- Affordable and pocket-friendly
Cons:
- Slight network connectivity issues
Verdict
The TRAM 703-HC is a pocket-friendly option and provides a reasonable connectivity range. However, it has a weak built and can be categorized more as a temporary option rather than a permanent antenna solution.
5. STRYKER SR-A10MM Magnetic Mount CB Radio Antenna
If you love the Wilson 5000 but need something with a little more power, you should try out the STRYKER SR-A10MM CB antenna radio antenna. Some Amazon customers and RV drivers guarantee that this product has 50% more power watts than the other.
Not only does this extremely well-priced model works perfectly with CB radios, but you can also connect them with 10-meter radios. This brand mainly earned its popularity and reputation due to its strong mount, which they have also applied with this product. It stays secure even on the roughest terrain and long road trips.
This antenna does not produce much static as you would normally get from a CB radio, which is a very pleasant surprise. So, if you love driving on the highway, or need a little car-to-car communication, you can have a lot of fun with this antenna.
The SWR comes in close right from the get-go, so you do not have to tune as much. This is mainly because of the RG-8X coax cable used which can handle such extra power and low SWR.
Pros:
- Shows no signs of damage even after heavy use
- Strong five-inch diameter mount that remains in place in unfavorable weather conditions and high speed
- Good transmission for communicating with other cars during driving
- Load coil can be removed from the magnetic base when not in use
Cons:
- Higher-mid price range
Verdict
If you are a fan of Wilson, then this model is a much better upgrade. It has better performance, range with a near-zero SWR. With the right weather, you can even talk barefoot!
6. PROSTICK Fiberglass CB Radio Antenna
PROSTICK is a 1000-watt CB radio antenna with an uncomplicated design that may look flimsy at first but works unexpectedly well. It is quite tough and can handle hitting a few branches now and then, and is even considered as the best glass mount CB antenna by many users.
You can thank its VibraSorb design technology for such sturdiness. It mainly employs the physical properties of the fiberglass used, such as its high flexibility and strength, to manufacture this break-resistant and durable antenna.
Since PROSTICK emphasizes the simplicity and straightforwardness of this design, it tunes the top-loaded antenna during the manufacturing process. This makes it hard for the user to adjust it later.
But if you want to, you must shorten the coiled wire to do so. So, we recommend this antenna to those who know how to use an antenna analyzer and make it resonant with CB frequencies.
Pros:
- Simplistic top-loaded design that is easy to install
- Fiberglass construction for a strong and flexible antenna
- Provides a good range of 26.0-29.5 MHz frequency for transmission
- Tough and durable and can handle rough driving
Cons:
- Difficult to tune
- Includes antennas only, not the base and coax
Verdict
The PROSTICK is a good antenna manufacturer, and is more suited for experienced truckers who know how to perform antenna analysis and can exert extra effort while tuning.
7. Pro Trucker CB Radio Antenna
This pocket-friendly antenna is an excellent option if you are looking for a reliable product but do not have much to invest in. It has a solid construction and is created with advanced technology to produce a durable product.
Coming in at 4 feet, this product is extremely user-friendly. The super-flex technology incorporated with the fiberglass used allows it to have maximum flexibility while maintaining its strength. So, if you plan on not buying antennas for your RV for a while, then this one is a great solution.
It is compatible with almost every mount and brand, which is great if you already have a preferred one installed on your car. All it requires is a standard 3/8” by 24 threaded antenna studs to tether it into.
You can attach it to your vehicle right out of the box without making any adjustments as it comes pre-tuned from the factory. And although the antenna itself is quite inexpensive, you must spend a little more buying the mount and stud.
Fortunately, due to its compatibility with almost all brands, you can choose one right within your budget.
Pros:
- Strong fiberglass ensures extra strength and longevity
- Friendly pricing but provides great value
- Suitable for multiple applications
- Factory tuned to decrease installation effort and time
Cons:
- Do not include the mount and coax
Verdict
This glass-constructed antenna is great if you already have a mount and are looking for a reasonably priced antenna to attach to it. And if you are not confident about your tuning skills, this product is perfect since it comes pre-tuned.
10. RoadPro RP-707 Magnet Mount Kit
Faulty signals on the road can be a pain to deal with, but you never have to worry about that if you are using the RP-707. Among all its prominent features, its excellent transmission ability puts all other CB antennas to shame.
The next best thing about this antenna is the spring provision at the base, which absorbs all the vibration from the wind and thus puts a minimum impact on the antenna itself. This helps to maintain its longevity by reducing the usual wear and tear.
It has been specifically designed to ensure clear and loud communication always and prevent any signal dropping. As CB users, you can get everything but the radio itself with this antenna kit. Sending and receiving messages at reasonable ranges is a no-brainer with this product.
You can have it installed on almost any vehicle, but since it draws a lot of power, it works best with heavy-duty trucks and RVs. This product is medium-weight and compact but takes a little more time to set up compared to others.
Pros:
- Only requires the vehicle as a power source, eliminating the need for batteries
- Compact and easy to operate
- Reduces wear and tear; the antenna is highly durable
- Perfect for vehicles with smaller ends of the spectrum
Cons:
- Damages car paint
Verdict
The RP-707 has a simple but sturdy design, that prides itself on its loud and clear communication abilities. It delivers superior performance and is a reliable product.
11. MIDLAND 18-2442
And the last one on our list is the MIDLAND 18-2442! It is one of the most top-rated mobile antennas produced by this brand and can be used with every MIDLAND radio produced.
This 17-7 stainless-steel whip has a solid core RG-58AU in place of the standard stranded core, which results in better performance output. You can use your SWR meter to tune the top section of the antenna and then use the provided Allen wrench to adjust the middle of the band.
It has a plastic base protecting the magnet inside and still provides adequate holding strength while preventing rust formation and scratches to your car. Even though the magnetic mounts of this product may be strong, beware of hitting the ball on top as it is not as sturdy.
To reduce whip damage, you will find that MIDLAND uses a relief spring at its core. This helps enhance its durability more than what you might expect from an antenna of this range. Moreover, it also includes a pre-wired cable and connector to reduce installation time.
With this antenna, you can get a decent range of 5 miles which is more than good enough.
Pros:
- Coax cables are long and durable to ensure convenience during use
- Plastic coating on the magnetic base protects both the mount and your car
- Compatible with all Midland CB radios
- Enhanced durability with stainless-steel whip and relief spring
Cons:
- Antenna is long and its tip is fragile
Verdict
MIDLAND is a popular antenna manufacturer in the USA, and their 18-2442 is one of the best there is. It is compatible with all their radios, has a center-load mag mount, and has some very satisfying features.
11. LUITON Full Kit
This 28-inch antenna kit comes from LUITON and is one of the best for smaller vehicles. If you have a semi or a pick-up truck with no radio booster, then look no further. With this antenna, you can communicate with other truckers within a 26-27 MHz frequency range.
On its own, the antenna is around 14-inches long, and along with it, you will get a PL 259 connector, a magnet base, and a 13-feet RF-58/U coax cable. The magnetic base improves the reception by increasing the metal surface area. It is very strong and does not shift during rough or off-road driving.
You would also need an adapter to connect to a mobile CB radio, so it also comes with a BNC to SO-239 adapter connector. And while it is very easy to install and the guide claims that the antenna requires no tuning, it is, in fact, quite difficult to dial exactly the way you want. The range is still great, though.
You can use this antenna while driving, and it even supports weather channels and your local civil band radio frequencies besides your CB channel. This can be beneficial if you are driving remotely and out of cellular grid range.
Pros:
- Suitable for smaller vehicles
- Compatible with handheld with CB radios
- Supports weather channels and civil band radio frequencies to help remain updated about the weather even out of cellular range
- Sturdy and heavyweight magnetic base that remains in place during rough driving
Cons:
- Limited reception
Verdict
The LUITON kit is one of the best for small vehicles and performs all the basic actions that you might expect from it. Moreover, the weather channels and other civil radio frequency support are a wonderful addition to the product.
Comparison Table RV CB Antenna
Product | Name | CB System | Voltage (Watts) | Tuning |
---|---|---|---|---|
K40 Model K-30 | Magnet Mount | 300 | Tuneable | |
Wilson 305-492 Mobile Trucker Antenna | Whip | 3500 | Tuneable | |
FireStik FS-4BK Antenna | Whip | 900 | Tuneable | |
TRAM 703-HC Center Load | Center Load | 70 | Tuneable | |
LUITON Full Kit | Magnet Mount | 300 | Pre-tuned | |
STRYKER SR-A10mm Magnetic Mount Antenna | Magnet Mount | 10, 000 | Pre-tuned | |
Prostick Foot Fiberglass Antenna | Fiberglass | 1000 | Pre-tuned | |
Pro Trucker Fiberglass Radio Antenna | Fiberglass | 750 | Pre-tuned | |
RoadPro RP-707 Magnet Mount Antenna | Magnet Mount | 300 | Tuneable | |
Midland 18-2442 | Center Load | 300 | Tuneable |
Complete RV CB Antenna Buying Guide
If you are new to this area, coming across all this information together can cause more harm than help. Especially more if you are unfamiliar with the terms or the processes necessary. Hopefully, here is where our buying guide can help you out.
At first, we will be discussing some of the factors you need to check before buying.
Durability
Since antennas are placed on the exterior of your vehicles and can be impacted by the heavy wind and high speed, you need to choose an antenna that has some of short of shield to it.
Stainless steels ones are usually the toughest there is, so you can save a lot of time and money by not having to replace your antennas frequently.
Performance
Antennas that have better power handling are the optimal choices for clear and loud communication. This will ensure you are always connected, even in the most remote areas, and you do not have to worry about faulty signals. A dual-band CB connector works best for this.
Mounting and Installation
An antenna mount may vary according to the antenna kit. But no matter which type you choose, you need to ensure that it keeps your antenna stable, especially if you intend on driving on rough terrains and highways.
Frequency Channel
On the other hand, frequency channel scanning is also a prominent factor to consider when buying antennas. Having multiple channels to browse can be very interesting and helpful when you are on the road.
It is also very important to have a strong frequency for uninterrupted communication. Fortunately, there are no FCC limits for CB channels, unlike other sites.
You should pay close attention to the technical features of your antennas as well. Here, we are talking about the grounding requirements.
Electrical Grounding
There are mainly two types of grounding methods used to connect CB antennas: ground plane and no ground plane (NGP antenna).
In the case of Ground Plane, ground mounting hardware is used to disperse the excess electricity safely, either by directing it to the exterior or body of the host car. You might find this process like jump-starting a dead vehicle using a car battery.
On the other hand, an NGP antenna is perfect for vehicles without enough metal surface exterior, such as an RV or a fiberglass camper. All they need is an NGP antenna coax to attach it and no grounding.
Now, on to the types of antennas used. Ground plane antennas are the most popular options, especially fiberglass and magnet mounts.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass antennas are semi-flexible and are the most resistant to wear and tear. They are the most suitable for off-road and rough terrain drivers as they can withstand the speed impacts and high winds better than the others.
Magnet Mount
As the name suggests, these antennas use a strong magnetic base to latch onto the host vehicle. They are easy to assemble and disassemble which can be convenient if you want to use a single antenna on multiple vehicles.
Whip
Whip antennas have a high range and are the most powerful CB antennas there are. They also have a longer height which can be a slight inconvenience.
And there you have it, the basic things you must remember when buying the best CB antenna for RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the Optimal CB Antenna Length?
While longer antennas provide better communication, you should also expect them to sustain more damage as they may hit branches, signboards, or other external factors. You should choose one that is tall enough for clear communication but not too tall.
2. When Should I Replace My CB Antenna?
An antenna has metallic tips at its ends. You can probe them with a multimeter and if it exhibits high electrical resistance, you will then know that your CB antenna has gone bad.
3. Why do I Need a CB Antenna?
While you might a CB antenna useless in the era of smartphones, they can be very helpful in remote areas out of cellular-grid range. They can assist you in communicating if you need help or to keep you company.
4. What is the Lifespan of These Products?
If it has solid construction and is given the right amount of care, CB antennas can for many years at a time. To increase its longevity, you need to apply the right methods to reduce wear and tear and follow the guidelines provided.
5. Which Vehicles Are Compatible With CB Antennas?
Almost all RVs and vehicles can be found compatible. That is unless your vehicle is vintage and has an outdated radio.
Conclusion
These antennas have been around since the 1800s and still have their charms. It is always safe to have one attached to your RV, as it can be lifesaving during emergencies. Hopefully, with our recommendations and buying guide, you can easily find the best CB antenna for RV.
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