>I am considering taking the plunge and buying my first crimp tool to
> install coax connectors.
Dan,
My vote is for the RF Industries RFA-4005 crimp set:
http://www.rfcoaxconnectors.com/Downloads/Home/Tool_Crimpers.pdf
Available for USD $99.00 from RFParts:
http://www.rfparts.com/coax_accessories.html
Be careful when comparing crimp sets. Nearly all the Asian ratcheting
crimper devices are designed the same and are of approximately the same
quality. The difference is with the dies. I've seen die quality range from
excellent to unusable.
On a related topic, I prefer 2/3-level "finger spin" cable strippers, also
made by RF Industries. Paladin Tools CST series is also excellent. I've
not had much success with the hand rotary preset cable strippers.
Finally, invest in a good set of cable cutters. Mine are made by
ChannelLock and were purchased at Home Depot. Unlike a pair of diagonal
cutters or electrician's pliers, a cable cutter will keep the cable from
crushing when the cut is made. They also form a clean end.
Here's a really good article to get your started. Written by Mike Higgins,
K6AER:
http://www.eham.net/articles/19257
Paul, W9AC
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dan Evans" <dan.evans@insightbb.com>
To: <towertalk@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, December 28, 2010 7:52 PM
Subject: [TowerTalk] Crimp tool for cable ends
>I am considering taking the plunge and buying my first crimp tool to
> install coax connectors. Currently I solder all of my connectors, but
> this is a slow process and from what I have read crimp connections are
> now just as good, if not better.
>
> I normally use LMR400, RG8, or RG8X cable, and I will be installing
> PL-259's and N connectors.
>
> Can you recommend a good set of affordable crimpers? If you were buying
> a set for your station, what would you buy?
>
> Thanks,
>
> 73
> Dan
> --
> Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Clark County Indiana. EM78el
> K9ZF /R no budget Rover ***QRP-l #1269 Check out the Rover Resource Page
> at:
> <http://www.qsl.net/n9rla> List Administrator for:
> InHam+grid-loc+ham-books
> Ask me how to join the Indiana Ham Mailing list!
>
>
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