Chameleon Antenna
CHA BV (Basic Vertical)
Best portable vertical for field operators needing quick, reliable radio setups.
The Chameleon Antenna CHA BV (Basic Vertical) is a versatile portable antenna designed for field and emergency communications. It offers efficient single-band resonance from 40 to 6 meters, with a quick setup time under 10 minutes. This antenna includes a robust ground mount, a 17-foot telescopic stainless steel whip for precise tuning, and four radial wires for effective grounding. As part of the modular MPAS system, it can be expanded for lower bands or converted into a broadband vertical, ensuring reliable performance with low SWR across its operating frequencies.
$450.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
339
/ 1314
#339 in Antennas
Price vs Category Average
+54%
Above average
Frequency Range
6.9117406
/ to MHz ( - m amateur bands)
Who it's for
- Field operators needing quick POTA or emergency setup
- Hams wanting multi-band versatility from a single antenna
- Outdoor enthusiasts requiring gear that survives harsh conditions
Who should skip it
- Operators preferring simple, plug-and-play antenna installations
- DXers prioritizing maximum efficiency on lower HF bands
- Budget-conscious users avoiding extra equipment costs
Performance breakdown
Deployment Speed
Rapid setup makes this ideal for emergency field operations.
Portability
Lightweight design fits easily into any standard portable radio kit.
Tuning Precision
Telescopic whip allows for accurate resonance across multiple amateur bands.
System Modularity
Seamless integration with the MPAS ecosystem offers excellent long-term scalability.
Build Durability
Stainless steel components handle field use well but require careful handling.
Signal Efficiency
Effective radial system ensures reliable performance for portable communication needs.
Key Specs
Frequency Range
6.9 to 117 MHz (40 - 6m amateur bands)
Power Capacity
300W SSB Phone / 200W CW/Digital Modes
VSWR
<2.0:1 (adjustable)
Whip Material
Stainless steel
Weight
Approximately 4 lbs (1.81 kg)
Cable Included
12-foot RG-58 with RFI choke
Mounting
Ground Mounting via CHA SPIKE MOUNT
Connector Type
SO-239 (UHF) or BNC
Features
- Single-band vertical antenna for 40m to 6m
- Includes ground spike mount for easy installation
- 17-foot adjustable stainless steel whip
- Modular and expandable within MPAS system
- Quick setup in under 10 minutes
- Includes radial wires and hub
- Low SWR, adjustable via whip tuning
- Durable construction for field use
What customers say
The Chameleon Antenna CHA BV earns high praise, especially for portable field operations, due to its exceptional rugged build quality. Users consistently report components feel durable enough for severe weather, making it highly reliable gear. A key benefit is the quick and easy setup, allowing operators to transmit fast. Performance on higher HF bands is excellent for making contacts. While achieving a low SWR on lower bands demands careful radial tuning, the overall consensus supports the premium price. Customers trust this antenna's longevity and dependable performance, viewing it as a top tier investment for serious operators prioritizing quality.
Know before you buy
While the antenna is designed for resonance on specific bands via the adjustable whip, you may still need an antenna tuner depending on your specific installation environment and ground conditions to achieve a perfect 1:1 SWR.
No, the CHA BV is designed specifically for portable field use. It is not weather-resistant and should be taken down after your operating session to prevent damage from the elements.
You tune the antenna by manually adjusting the length of the 17-foot stainless steel telescopic whip. By extending or retracting the sections, you can achieve resonance across the 40m to 6m bands.
Yes, the CHA BV is part of the modular MPAS (Modular Portable Antenna System) ecosystem. You can expand its capabilities for lower bands or convert it into a broadband vertical setup using other compatible components from the series.
The antenna is rated for up to 300W SSB phone or 200W for CW and digital modes. Exceeding these limits may damage the internal components or the feed point.
The included ground spike is designed for use in soil, sand, or soft earth. It will not work on hard surfaces like concrete or rocky ground, where you would need an alternative mounting solution.
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$450