Gamma or dipole for 2 meter Yagi?

[K9FV]

Hello all, I'm fiddling around with a 5 element 2 meter Yagi antenna. I used a dipole for the driven element, the match is good, would a gamma be better? I realized a Gamma would require changing to a solid driven element.

OR is there some other method that is better?

Thanks for any info and suggestions.

Ken H>

[WB2WIK]

Nope, it's not better in any way.

The gamma allows you to use an unbroken driven element without an insulator, which might make it mechanically stronger. It also allows that driven element to be grounded to the boom at its center, which makes for simplified construction. Those are the only reasons it's used.

If you use a split driven element directly fed with coax, it can be improved with the use of a balun to provide a cleaner radiation pattern.

[K9FV]

Thanks Steve, I'll stay with the dipole and stick a coil of coax for a balun - I'll have to do some testing to see what diameter and how many turns for 2 meters.

Those coax baluns seem to be pretty good for single bands.

73 de Ken H>