Put a beam up on the flat side 1/2 wave up or more and point it where you want to talk. You will not be disappointed.
OK - I have used this antenna for over 38 years, (and I'm on my second one). A superb antenna: Hy gain Super Predator 500
an old ad from 1972,
And a picture of the current antenna in the air. The antenna is rated at 5.1dBi, or 3dBd gain. It compares favorably to my 3 el beam. I can't recommend it enough. It is actually the predecessor (and progenitor) to the Interceptor 10K
it's all in the stars.....or really the sun. & sometimes in the clouds in between
i've talked to 6 continents on 10m, 11m, 12m, 20m & 40m....70 or 80 watts from an ic706mk2g on a magnet mount antenna-20 or 40m hamstick, or predator on 10, 11 & 12-on my mobile. Best Cb radio reviews
at the risk of making this a 'mine's better then yours' thread, for 11m, if you can't use a beam, ANY REAL 5/8's wave antenna.....such as maco v5/8......is BEST. vertical vs horizontal, there's so much noise & congestion on 11m dx, choice is really up to you. if you plan on talking to locals that only have verticals, or local mobiles, a vertical beam is just fine for skip.
Much better food at Sabor Latin Street Grill in Charlotte.Conditions,conditions,conditions
Recognize when conditions are right. Key up and call out. Works for me. All of my DX contacts came in very strong. I finally talked to 288 in Tuson,Az the other day from my mobile(Cre-8900&Sirio Performer PL5000 and no amp). I was sitting in a Taco Bell parking lot near Charlotte,NC eating a Cantina chicken burrito and listening to a local trying to get 288 to answer him. The local was talking 200 watts and had a set of beams. When 288 answered him I jumped at the chance and 288 answered me.