FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit Review

Let’s Talk About FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit promises a complete CB radio communication solution for vehicles, especially RVs and commercial trucks. FIRESTIK, a well-known name in the CB radio world, aims to deliver reliable performance with this no-ground plane (NGP) system. This kit simplifies installation and eliminates the need for a traditional ground plane, making it a convenient option for many users.

My interest in this kit stemmed from ongoing issues with my current CB setup in my overlanding rig. I was constantly battling poor signal quality and frustrating static, especially when venturing off the beaten path. I hoped the FIRESTIK NGP system would provide a significant improvement in communication clarity and range without requiring extensive modifications to my vehicle.

Upon unboxing the FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit, I was immediately struck by its lightweight construction. The antenna itself felt sturdy yet surprisingly light, and the included coax cable seemed well-made. The side mount bracket looked simple and functional, promising a straightforward installation process.

I considered other similar kits from Wilson and Cobra, but the FIRESTIK’s reputation for quality and the specific design for no-ground plane installations swayed my decision. The promise of improved performance without the hassle of grounding was a major selling point. My initial excitement was high, hoping this kit would finally solve my CB communication woes.

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Real-World Testing: Putting FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit was during a weekend off-roading trip in the Mojave Desert. I mounted the antenna on the side of my truck using the included bracket and connected it to my CB radio. The installation was surprisingly easy and took less than an hour.

The initial performance was promising, with clearer reception and less static compared to my previous setup. However, in deep canyons, the signal still struggled, although it was an improvement compared to my previous CB antenna. The FIRESTIK NGP system seemed to handle the dry, dusty conditions of the desert without any issues.

There were a couple of minor issues that cropped up during the first use. The included mic hook felt a bit flimsy, and the tunable tip required some fine-tuning to achieve optimal SWR readings.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit has proven to be a reliable performer. The antenna has held up well against harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and intense sunlight. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the side mount remains secure.

Cleaning the antenna is a breeze – a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes. The coax cable has remained flexible and free from kinks, ensuring consistent signal transmission. Compared to my previous CB antenna, the FIRESTIK NGP system offers noticeably better performance in most situations.

Breaking Down the Features of FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit

Specifications

• Antenna Length: 4 feet. This length offers a good balance between signal range and ease of mounting.
• Coax Length: 17 feet. The included 17′ of specialty no-ground coax cable, providing ample length for routing the cable within most vehicles.
• Antenna Type: 3′ 5/8 wave antenna. The 5/8 wave design offers better performance compared to shorter antennas, maximizing signal range.
• NGP Design: No-Ground Plane system. This eliminates the need for a traditional ground plane, simplifying installation and making it suitable for vehicles with limited grounding options.
• Tunable Tip: Allows for SWR adjustment. This ensures optimal antenna performance by matching the antenna impedance to the radio’s impedance.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and usability of the CB radio system. The antenna length affects the signal range, while the coax length determines the flexibility of installation. The NGP design simplifies installation and expands compatibility to a wider range of vehicles.

Performance & Functionality

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit performs its primary function of providing reliable CB radio communication quite well. The NGP design effectively eliminates the need for a traditional ground plane, making it easier to install on vehicles with limited grounding options. The tunable tip allows for fine-tuning the SWR, ensuring optimal signal transmission and reception.

The main strength is the ease of installation and the improved signal clarity compared to traditional grounded antennas. A minor weakness is the SWR tuning process, which can be a bit finicky for beginners. Overall, the kit meets expectations and provides a noticeable improvement in CB radio communication.

Design & Ergonomics

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit features a simple and functional design. The lightweight antenna and side mount bracket are easy to handle and install. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance.

The kit is user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process and easy-to-understand instructions. The only potential learning curve is the SWR tuning process, which may require some initial research and experimentation.

Durability & Maintenance

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit is built to last. The antenna is made from high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The side mount bracket is sturdy and secure, ensuring the antenna remains firmly in place.

Maintenance is minimal – a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the antenna clean. The coax cable is designed to resist kinking and damage, ensuring consistent signal transmission.

Accessories and Customization Options

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit includes a side mount bracket, 17′ of specialty no-ground coax cable, and a mic hook. Customization options are limited, but the tunable tip allows for fine-tuning the SWR. The antenna is compatible with most standard CB radios.

Pros and Cons of FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit

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Who Should Buy FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit?

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit is perfect for:

• RVers: Simplifies CB radio installation on RVs with limited grounding options.
• Commercial Truck Drivers: Provides reliable communication on the road without the hassle of grounding.
• Off-Road Enthusiasts: Offers improved signal clarity in challenging terrain.
• Anyone Looking for an Easy-to-Install CB Antenna: The NGP design makes it a great choice for beginners.

Who should skip this product?

• Those requiring maximum range in extreme conditions may need to explore high-end, full ground plane systems.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A reliable SWR meter is essential for proper tuning, and a higher quality microphone can improve audio clarity.

Conclusion on FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit

The FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit offers a convenient and effective solution for improving CB radio communication in vehicles with limited grounding options. The ease of installation, improved signal clarity, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. The price of $86.78 is justified by the performance and convenience offered.

I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a hassle-free CB radio antenna solution. If you are looking to improve your CB radio communications, the FIRESTIK 4ft Single Side Mount Lightweight NGP Kit may be right for you.