Stealth antennas are convenient for many reasons. They’re practical, versatile, and they also can go unnoticed.
Plus, these devices can fit almost anywhere. You can use them for either indoor or outdoor operations with ease.
But finding the best stealth HF antenna can be tricky. And that’s where this article comes into play.
Here, you’ll learn everything there’s to know about these antennas. Then, you’ll know how to spot the most suitable for your tasks.
A Table of 6 Best Stealth HF Antenna Comparison in 2024
| Brand Name | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ni4L Antennas & Electronics | |
| Ni4L Inverted L 160/6 M HF | |
| CHA EMCOMM III | |
| Ni4L Antennas & Electronics PEF406 | |
| Yaesu ATAS-120A | |
| Chameleon Antenna MPAS 2.0 |
What is the best stealth HF antenna?
That would have to be the Ni4L ZS6BKW/G5RV. After testing many brands and many more HF antennas, this one is the most consistent.
It’s super versatile, flexible, and has excellent resistance as well. Since it has many configurations, it isn’t hard to set it up in a few minutes.
Everything about this product displays quality, from the components to the wire and the hardware used.
Plus, the handmade build is durable and resistant. Add to that the PVC jacket featured, and this antenna turns into a long-lasting investment.
The antenna also comes pre-assembled. There’s no need to put much thought and time to get it ready and going.
It’s a user-friendly device that appeals to experienced and amateur users.
Why Ni4L Antennas & Electronics is the best brand for stealth HF antenna?
Because the brand specializes and excels at it. Ni4L has been creating communication equipment for years.
Now, the company has a vast catalog with a bunch of antennas available for everyone.
Experience won’t matter either, as these antennas are ideal for amateurs, too.
The company is reliable, trustworthy, and also affordable. So much so that this article features not only one, but many of their products.
And it’s no surprise. Out of the bunch, these antennas are among the most effective.
Quick installation, easy configuration, and fantastic reception are only some of their benefits.
There’s another reason this brand is the best, and that’s variety.
While checking its store, it’s easy to get lost in its products. Each one is different from the other.
The many types of antennas available are overwhelming. Truly, Ni4L is a capable brand that backs up its reputation with consistent products.
6 Best Stealth HF Antenna Reviews 2024
Luckily, Ni4L Antennas isn’t alone in the market. Other brands make high-quality antennas as well.
This section covers the top stealth HF antennas out there.
Choosing them wasn’t an easy task, but it all boiled down to only 7 options. Learn more about them here.
01. Ni4L Antennas & Electronics ZS6BKW / G5RV – Best Overall
Highlighted Features
- Handmade Build
- Pre-Assembled
- PVC Jacket
- Two small end insulators
This antenna is an optimized model with incredible efficiency.
Without a tuner, the antenna operates on 10, 12, 17, 20, and 40 bands. Add a tuner to it, and it’ll also work on 6, 15, 30, and 80m bands.
The device comes with a PVC jacket that offers high abrasion resistance.
It’s vastly convenient for applications in seacoast or other harsh environments.
Also, the Poly-Stealth 13 wire is outstanding. Besides being resistant, it’s flexible too.
Setting up the antenna and having it run through trees is a hassle-free process. No high wind loads nor rain will interfere with its performance.
100W of power and the proper height are everything this antenna needs.
The ideal configuration is 50 feet up into an inverted V in a tree. There, it has phenomenal reception.
Finally, there are two other things to mention. One is the durable hardware made of stainless steel.
The other is the two small end insulators—all durable.
“As mentioned before, a tuner is necessary for specific bands. Getting it means more money invested into this antenna. But, it’s all worth it once it starts making contacts.”
What We Liked
- Impressive SWR readings
- Works with or without a tuner
- Fantastic contacts at 100W
- Flexible wires
What We Didn’t Like
- Needs a tuner for specific bands
02. Ni4L Inverted L 160/6 M HF – Best Stealth HF Vertical Antenna
Highlighted Features
- Two End Insulators
- 4:1 Balun
- Poly-STEALTH Wires
- Weather Resistant
This antenna is a 1/4-wave dipole Marconi. It can feed against ground or counterpoise, like radials.
Due to its low impedance, it’s compatible with a 50-ohm coax cable. That leads to a simple installation.
Place the vertical section as high as possible and the rest in a horizontal position over the tree or mast.
Another feature to mention here is the wires. They come insulated with Polyethylene to withstand any condition.
The wires also have a small size to fit in bags with ease. Plus, they feature a low-gloss finish for perfect camouflage with the background.
For more convenience, the antenna comes already assembled. Furthermore, other items included make the whole set up faster.
You can set it up in a traditional setting or even as an end-fed shortwave antenna. Under this setup, it provides continuous coverage from 500 kHz to 60 MHz.
This product has a super tough construction as well. It has three 240/61 cores, stainless steel components, and #14 tinned wire.
All of these parts make it an antenna resistant to acid rain, high wind, and snow.
“One minor issue is that this antenna needs a wide range tuner.
It comes in handy for tuning the antenna to 160-6 meters. Since it doesn’t come included, buying separately is a must.”
What We Liked
- Comes fully assembled
- Displays low feed impedance
- Durable and resistant hardware
- Works as an end-fed shortwave antenna
What We Didn’t Like
- May need a wide range tuner
03. Cha EMCOMM III Portable – Best for Outdoor Activities
Highlighted Features
- 10M-160M Frequency
- Teflon Wire
- 5 Pounds of Weight
- Accessories Included
This antenna is fantastic for outdoor activities like hiking or camping. It comes with about 73 feet of wire.
Plus, it has a flexible coating that makes the cable pliable but also resistant. The wire’s resistance is perfect for cold conditions.
The antenna includes a matching transformer, 73-foot wire on a line winder, and a 25-foot counterpoise. In general, it is a complete kit that secures hassle-free mounting.
The purpose of this antenna is to be a mobile device. The base design is that of a wire wrap.
Once installed, there are a few carabiners to keep the wire from pulling off the mount. This has proven to be an innovative yet convenient design.
After setting it up, it doesn’t take long to start seeing results.
The antenna is quick to make contacts, whether at 40 or 80 meters. Also, the items are small enough to fit in bags or boxes and carry them around.
“The quality of the antenna wire is excellent, but it does come with a price.
At 73 feet long, its length could be troublesome. Getting it untangled while wearing gloves isn’t an easy task.”
What We Liked
- Convenient and portable design
- Ideal for outdoor activities
- Super tough wire quality
- Easy to set up in 15 minutes
What We Didn’t Like
- The wire’s length can also be an issue
04. Ni4L Antennas & Electronics Portable – Most Resistant
Highlighted Features
- UV-Resistant Housing
- Stainless Steel Hardware
- 41-foot Poly-Stealth Wire
- End Insulators
With a durable housing, this antenna is resistant and durable.
It features UV resistant ABS plastic to enclose an efficient matching network.
This build allows feeding the antenna with a 50-ohm coaxial cable.
Apart from that, the stainless steel hardware included increases the antenna’s durability.
The antenna works well under several configurations.
This includes horizontal, sloper, and vertical setups.
Even better, there’s no need for a ground plane or counterpoise in either setting.
This only means the antenna is portable. Since the coax is at the bottom, it’s easy to hang the unit via its far end.
Another highlighted feature is the wire’s insulation.
It has a low-gloss finish that fits in any environment.
Also, it comes with a fantastic abrasion resistance as well. The antenna and wire can resist trees, UV, rough weather, and more.
“What this antenna misses are much-needed instructions.
There’s actually none included. The setup and use of this device may not be as smooth for less-experienced users.”
What We Liked
- Seamlessly blends with backgrounds
- Withstands harsh environments
- Tunes 80-6 meters
- Smooth, portable operation
What We Didn’t Like
- No instructions included at all
05. Yaesu ATAS-120A – Easiest to Use
Highlighted Features
- Auto-Tune Function
- HF-UHF Coverage
- 2-Piece Design
- Detailed Manual
This antenna is fantastic for Yaesu radio devices.
It works with models FT-857D, FT-991, and FT-991A, to name a few. After setting it up, the antenna can make contacts in 40 meters through 450Mhz.
Setting up this antenna is pretty simple. It can work on a standard mobile antenna mount with a Type “M” base connector.
Once mounted, the auto-tune function is one of the greatest assets this antenna offers.
This automatic function significantly reduces the time you’d spend setting it up.
While active, the antenna does an excellent job in 40-6m bands.
The reception is good, and it can make contacts in seconds after the installation.
Plus, the wire’s coating avoids interference to improve the antenna’s efficiency.
Since it has a durable build, it can maintain a reliable performance for years. But, it is necessary to keep it grounded for optimal results.
Another thing that stands out comes from the manual itself.
It explains how the antenna works and how to operate it. This manual is actually a decent source of information for beginners.
“Despite its decent performance, the antenna doesn’t have enough sturdiness.
Over shaky roads, it can fall apart with ease. This is an issue if the plan is to mount the antenna on a vehicle.”
What We Liked
- Super easy to mount
- Stainless steel whip
- Ideal for 40M-70cm Ham Radio
- Makes fast, effective tuning
What We Didn’t Like
- Not sturdy enough
06. Chameleon Antenna MPAS 2.0 – Most Convenient
Highlighted Features
- 6M-160M Frequency
- 100 SSB/50W CW Power
- 3/8-24 Thread Configuration
- Stainless Steel Hardware
This super versatile antenna works under different configurations.
With vertical, horizontal, sloper, and NVIS being only a few.
The kit offers several items, including a military-grade bag. Setting up this antenna is easy, and it takes only a few minutes for complete deployment.
That’s precisely what stands out the most about this antenna.
There’s no need to buy extra tools or items, as every necessary component comes in the kit. It’s the best stealth HF mobile antenna out there.
After installing it, the antenna operates from 1.8 to 54.0 MHz.
It picks up frequencies in the blink of an eye. Because of that, it’s ideal for ham radios.
Still, the antenna has a rugged and flexible system suitable for many more applications.
The antenna quickly makes contacts with good reports on both sides.
At 20 meters and under 80 Watts, its frequency range covers thousands of miles away.
It’s an efficient system that shows clear readings without interferences.
“Despite having several useful accessories, the kit lacks a cap hat.
This component is necessary to make the antenna more efficient.
It’ll help lower SRW while widening the antenna’s bandwidth as well. People interested in this antenna should consider getting the cap hat too.”
What We Liked
- Portable and easy to install
- Many configurations available
- Resistant to rough weather
- Convenient backpack included
What We Didn’t Like
- Cap hat not included
What to Consider when Buying Best Stealth HF Antenna
Before picking an antenna, consider the following features.
This information narrows down the list of options to only a few. It’ll help you ditch antennas that don’t work for those that do.
Band & Frequency Coverage
The antenna’s reception is the first major feature to consider.
It’ll shed more light on whether it’ll meet your standards.
Commonly, they operate within 1.8-54MHz. Though, it can vary depending on the model of the antenna.
Frequency coverage is also a decisive factor. In this case, most antennas work within 6-160M.
Their efficiency in that range depends on several factors. For instance, the wire’s quality, height, and more. This is something that gets brought up later on.
Durability
Durable components will improve the antenna’s results.
The housing, components, and wire must all be reliable. Luckily, most have stainless steel hardware.
This material is incredible, as it provides many benefits. Some of them are durability and resistance.
But, nothing is as important as the wire’s quality.
The quality of the wire is essential. Without enough resistance, the wires won’t be as effective.
Here, the key is to find the perfect balance. Look for wires with Poly-Stealth quality.
These can put up with rain, snow, and high winds. Furthermore, they’re also flexible. They can adapt around trees without risks of breaking.
Additionally, wires with a low-gloss finish are fantastic.
They blend with the backgrounds easily. This is super convenient for the best indoor HF stealth antenna.
Configurations
HF antennas have more than one configuration. In fact, there are at least a dozen applications for them.
They can be vertical, horizontal, sloper, and more. This depends on two things.
First, the versatility of the antenna. Secondly, that the product has the components needed for each configuration.
It is essential to focus on getting a versatile antenna. That way, it will be easier to experiment with each configuration.
Keep in mind that antennas may work better at different heights. So, having the option to adapt it to different configurations improves its efficiency.
Size & Weight
The purpose of a stealth HF antenna is to go unnoticed. That’s what makes them convenient.
They’re small, compact, and can fit well in most locations. Still, these antennas may need some accommodations.
Take the Ni4L ZS6KBW/G5RV, for example. This model needs about 92 ft of space and at least 40 ft of height.
Weight is yet another feature to consider. Not that the antennas are super heavy, but some are lighter than others.
This could play a significant role during some configurations. For instance, bulky antennas may not be as easy to set up on trees.
Other Considerations
Pre-Assembled
Don’t make things harder, and go for a pre-assembled antenna. This way, all it’ll need afterward are the final configuration steps. Easy, fast, and convenient.
Components
Some components can improve the antenna’s efficiency.
The wires do an excellent job, but the end insulators and balun do, too. Keeping an eye on these components is a must.
Tuner
An antenna tuner is almost an essential tool to have.
This tool can have a massive impact on the antenna’s efficiency.
For instance, it creates the conditions for improved reception and clear signal readings. In most cases, this is an item that you’d have to buy separately.
Low-Gloss Finish
This finish is perfect for the wires. It helps them blend with the background with ease. Stealth HF antennas with this feature are top-notch.
Wire Length
While lengthy wires are great, they also may get tangled with ease.
This is a common issue that could make them break or bend. Other than the wire’s effectiveness, make sure that it’s also durable.
Coax
Many of these antennas need at least 70 feet of 50-52Ohm coax to operate well.
Without that, they may not function properly. Just like with tuners, this is another component that is often available separately.
Handmade
One of the reasons for Ni4L success is the brand’s attention to detail.
This is possible due to the company’s specific handmade process.
Each antenna goes through testing phases that consolidate its quality.
Of course, not all HF antenna manufacturers follow the same process.
That’s why knowing how companies make the antenna could be an indicator of their quality.
Portability
Antennas may be small, but they still need other components to work.
For outdoor applications, consider getting a backpack. Cases or bags could also work to transport the equipment.
Location
Depending on the conditions around it, the antenna may work with more or less efficiency.
This is more noticeable in rural areas. At these locations, very few antennas can actually pick up frequencies from far away.
It’s also vital to consider obstructions and high winds.
Mounting & Operating
This includes all costs, from the antenna to its mounting. Keep in mind that some HF antennas may need you to get extra tools.
So, these are all expenses to consider before purchasing.
Also, make sure to stick to brands with enough reputation behind them. It’ll save you a lot of headaches.
Conclusion
And that would be it! After learning about what constitutes the best stealth HF antenna, it’s easier to pick one.
Stick to the ones mentioned here, and you’ll invest your money wisely.
Each of these products has been put to the test under many applications. And, so far, they’ve yet to disappoint!