Let’s Talk About FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax is designed to provide a robust and versatile mounting solution for CB radios and other communication devices. FIRESTIK is a well-known name in the antenna and accessory market, and this mount aims to deliver on their reputation for quality and reliability. This compact mount and coax cable combination promises easy installation and strong signal performance for vehicles, boats, or even fixed locations.
My need for this mount arose from a recurring issue I’ve faced over the years: finding a reliable and adaptable way to mount my CB radio antenna without drilling into my vehicle or permanently altering its structure. I wanted something portable and versatile enough for different vehicles and scenarios, from overlanding trips to simply needing temporary communication on a job site. The promise of a stainless steel build and easy installation made this FIRESTIK mount appealing.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive, noting that the stainless steel construction felt solid and durable. The mount itself is surprisingly compact, and the included 18 feet of coaxial cable seemed ample for various mounting configurations. The build quality felt substantial for the price, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of off-road use and varying weather conditions.
Compared to other options like magnetic mounts (which can scratch paint) or permanent through-hole mounts (which require drilling), the FIRESTIK mirror mount struck a good balance between security and non-permanent installation. Other mounts I considered were bulkier and less adaptable. Ultimately, I chose this model because of the FIRESTIK brand reputation and the mount’s apparent versatility.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked like it would do the trick. I was excited to test its performance and durability in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax on my Jeep Cherokee during a weekend overlanding trip in the Mojave Desert. The landscape provided a varied terrain to traverse and test the mounting capabilities. The mount was attached to the side mirror frame, offering a clear line of sight for the antenna.
During the trip, we encountered everything from smooth highways to bumpy dirt trails, as well as intense sunshine and some gusty winds. The FIRESTIK mount remained secure throughout the entire journey. Installation was straightforward, and I didn’t need any special tools beyond an adjustable wrench.
The initial use was seamless. I did not experience any slipping, rattling, or signal interference. The mount held the antenna firmly in place, and the 18-foot coax cable provided enough length to reach the CB radio inside the vehicle without excessive slack.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple off-road adventures and daily commutes, the FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax has proven to be surprisingly durable. The stainless steel construction has resisted rust and corrosion, even after exposure to salty air near the coast. There are minimal signs of wear and tear.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to keep the mount looking and functioning well. I periodically check the tightness of the mounting screws to ensure a secure connection. No issues have arisen during the maintenance.
Compared to a previous magnetic mount I used, the FIRESTIK mount offers significantly better stability and signal performance. The grounding is more reliable, and the mount itself doesn’t shift or vibrate, even on rough terrain. The FIRESTIK mount has consistently outperformed my previous experiences.
Breaking Down the Features of FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax
Specifications
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax features a compact stainless steel mount designed for single mirror railing or flat vertical surface installations. This material choice ensures resistance to corrosion and provides long-lasting durability, even in harsh environments. The kit includes 18 feet of professional-grade coaxial cable terminated with PL-259 connectors at both ends. This length offers flexibility in antenna placement and radio connection without needing additional extensions.
The small size of the mount allows for discreet installation without obstructing the driver’s view. Its simple design enables quick and easy mounting to various surfaces with minimal tools. The FIRESTIK mount is compatible with any antenna using a standard SO-239 connector. This compatibility ensures versatility with a wide range of CB and amateur radio antennas.
Performance & Functionality
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax performs its primary function effectively, providing a stable and secure mounting platform for a CB antenna. The stainless steel construction ensures that the antenna remains firmly in place, even in windy conditions or on rough roads. The stability is excellent.
The 18-foot coax cable delivers good signal quality, minimizing signal loss and maximizing transmission range. The cable length provides sufficient reach for most vehicle installations, allowing the radio to be positioned conveniently inside the cab. While the mount is robust, a heavier-duty version might be beneficial for extremely large or heavy antennas. This is a minor consideration.
The mount meets and exceeds my expectations for a simple and effective antenna mounting solution. It provides a secure and reliable connection without requiring permanent modifications to my vehicle. It’s better than I expected.
Design & Ergonomics
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax boasts a simple and functional design, prioritizing ease of use and durability. The stainless steel construction gives it a solid and robust feel, while the compact size ensures it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view. The weight is negligible.
The mount is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. There is virtually no learning curve. Its universal design makes it adaptable to various vehicles and mounting scenarios.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax ensures long-term durability, even in harsh environments. With proper care, this mount should last for many years of reliable service. Its robust design ensures its longevity.
Maintaining the mount is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Periodic checks of the mounting screws are recommended to ensure a secure connection. This helps extend the lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax includes the stainless steel mount and 18 feet of professional-grade coaxial cable. No other accessories are included. The mount itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options.
However, the SO-239 connector allows compatibility with a wide range of antennas from different brands. Users can choose an antenna that best suits their specific needs and preferences, enhancing the overall communication performance. FIRESTIK also offers various antenna springs and quick disconnects that can be used with this mount. These can further improve the setup’s durability and convenience.
Pros and Cons of FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction resists corrosion.
- Easy to install with basic tools, requiring no permanent modifications.
- Versatile design allows mounting on mirror rails or flat vertical surfaces, adapting to various vehicles and scenarios.
- 18-foot coax cable provides ample length for flexible antenna placement.
- Reliable and secure antenna mount ensures stable signal performance, even on rough terrain.
Cons
- May require additional hardware (clamps or screws) depending on specific mounting application.
- The mount may not be suitable for extremely large or heavy antennas without additional support.
Who Should Buy FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax?
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax is perfect for overlanders, off-road enthusiasts, truck drivers, and anyone needing a reliable and non-permanent antenna mounting solution. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a versatile mount for temporary or mobile communication setups. Anyone that wants a solid, versatile mount will benefit.
Those needing to mount extremely large or heavy antennas should consider a more robust mounting system. Someone needing a permanently mounted antenna should look at through-hole options.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality CB antenna tuned to the desired frequency range. Purchasing a SWR meter is helpful for tuning your antenna.
Conclusion on FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax
The FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax offers a compelling blend of durability, versatility, and ease of use. It provides a reliable and non-permanent antenna mounting solution for a wide range of vehicles and applications. The design makes it a great fit.
Considering its robust stainless steel construction and included 18-foot coax cable, the price of $49.49 is justified. The build quality is worth the price.
I would definitely recommend the FIRESTIK Single Mirror Mount Stainless Steel w/18ft Pl-Pl- Coax to anyone needing a dependable and adaptable antenna mounting solution. It’s a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service. Get yours today!