Discontinued Shakespeare Products

Finding a modern equivalent aerial

When a specific model is no longer available, the practical approach is to match the specification rather than hunt for the exact same part number. VHF antennas are rated by gain in decibels; a higher-gain antenna concentrates its signal into a flatter, wider pattern, which increases range on a stable powerboat but can actually reduce range on a boat that rolls, since the signal cone tips away from the horizon with the hull's motion. A lower-gain antenna with a taller radiation pattern often suits a sailing yacht better for this reason.

Mounting base and cable connector matter as much as the antenna element itself: most bases use a standard stainless ferrule thread, but the coax connector at the radio end, commonly PL259 and sometimes BNC on smaller sets, needs to match your existing cable and radio, or you will need an adaptor. Height above the waterline affects range more than any single spec on the antenna, so it is worth checking mounting position alongside gain when choosing a replacement.