Difference Between VHF Antennas

[PeterB26]

One of my 8' VHF antennas had the coax break at the base of the whip. Time for a new antenna. Looking at the Shakespear 5101 and 5102 but I'll be darned if I can see any differnce between their specs other than the price. Does anyone have any further insight as to the differences in these two antennas?
Thanks,
PeterB

 

[dingbat]

One of my 8' VHF antennas had the coax break at the base of the whip. Time for a new antenna. Looking at the Shakespear 5101 and 5102 but I'll be darned if I can see any differnce between their specs other than the price. Does anyone have any further insight as to the differences in these two antennas?

The difference is the build quality.
The 5101 is entry level construction.
The 5102 is a step up in material and build quality.

Got tired of replacing antennas every couple of years and bought a 5225-XT. Much better build quality overall

 

[Bt Doctur]

5101 is a center fed ant meaning it just a piece of coax inside the ant. low end type of ant although it does work satisfactory.
The 5102 is a center fed 5/8ths wave with brass construction and is a much better ant with longer range
The Shakespeare 5102 Centennial VHF Antenna is a mid-priced antenna with high-end features delivers on performance and value.

Features:​

• Collinear phased 5/8-wave
• Brass and copper elements for maximum range and efficiency
• Smooth, durable high-gloss finish
• 2-year limited warranty

Specifications:​

• Shakespeare Model No. 5102
• Twin to: Shakespeare style 5120 antenna
• Length: 8'
• Sections: 1
• Color: White
• Ferrule: Chrome-plated brass with standard 1"-14 Thread
• Cable Supplied: 15' RG-58 (can be cut to size)
• Connector Supplied: PL-259 (not installed)
• Suggested Mount: Shakespeare 4187 or 5187 (each sold separately)
• Band: VHF Marine Band
• Gain: 6 dB
• Max. Input Power: 50W
• SWR (Standing Wave Ratio): Nominally 1.5:1 at 156.8 MHz
• Bandwidth: 5 MHz within 2.0:1 VSWR
• Impedance: 50 ohm
• Polarity: Vertical
• DC Ground: No

Antenna will read as open when tested with ohm meter.