Radiating Element?

[DeuceoneRadio]

I'm in the process of researching base antennas and was wondering if someone could explain radiating element to me. It seems the term should be self explanatory but I need help because I don't know how much that should factor into my final purchase decision. I appreciate the anticipated response. So far this forum has been super helpful to this noob.

[SteveShannon]

8 minutes ago, DeuceoneRadio said:

I'm in the process of researching base antennas and was wondering if someone could explain radiating element to me. It seems the term should be self explanatory but I need help because I don't know how much that should factor into my final purchase decision. I appreciate the anticipated response. So far this forum has been super helpful to this noob.

Antennas typically consist of reactive elements and radiating elements. The reactive elements are used to match the impedance of the radio and feedline which is usually 50 ohms. The radiating element is one or more metal wires or rods that convert the signal into RF. It’s usually the most visible part of the antenna. 

[Socalgmrs]

1 hour ago, DeuceoneRadio said:

I'm in the process of researching base antennas and was wondering if someone could explain radiating element to me. It seems the term should be self explanatory but I need help because I don't know how much that should factor into my final purchase decision. I appreciate the anticipated response. So far this forum has been super helpful to this noob.

Just buy a good antenna and atleast lmr400, or better, and hand the antenna. It’s not rocket science