I'm not surprised that Avanti found the gain difference a bit less than my two models predicted. I also agree, that in order for you to sense the differences you noted in testing, the actual gain differences must have been greater also. One db of difference may be difficult to realize without some special type of equipment.
I believe that back in the days of Avanti the science and math were available to make the calculations that are similar to today's speedier results using modeling software. IMO, the folks at Avanti probably understood the math. They just couldn't calculate rapidly...and a "what if" type of scenario just required a lot more work and time. I get the feeling that the modeling software limitation type errors we see made in applications today, tend to error on the side of seeing results inflated a bit, rather than just bad results like most seem to suggest. Goes back to the old saying: "...if something seems to good to be true, it probably is." That'll make Homer happy.
Bob, you know that I've not been able to duplicate the testing you did where the the results were greater than the gain indicated, but I think I have experienced something similar before just like you describe. I figured that situation maybe due to either a particular height where I had the antenna installed, or maybe it was just conditions that provided some combinations of angles that were in phase at the other station involved, but I never thought about steering the angle like you suggest. That idea is valid however, and whether I'm right or wrong, I still felt that experience was remarkable and different.
Re: the Wolf .64, I'm more concerned where Eddie measured the overall length of the radiator from than the problem with water in the gamma. I agree the idea of leaving the gamma open and on top exposed is a bad idea and a bad design. I still think the center bolt might be the point to measure from. One day I'll take the time and figure that all out. On testing the Wolf .64, I might still be impressed with the results, but I have changed my mind a little regarding the kits construction for the Wolf antennas. But for the price, it could be better. I will comment however, that the base element looks to be very durable and I doubt anyone would ever have a problem in that area with it being long and double wall or maybe it's just think wall tubing, but I'm not so sure about the top elements surviving a big wind.
Thanks for your comments.
