Yes, Signal Sticks can physically connect to any radio with the right adapter or connector, but performance depends on how close the operating frequency is to the antenna’s tuning. Since Signal Sticks are optimized for the amateur radio bands (2 meters and 70cm), performance will diminish the further you move from these frequencies.

Here’s what to expect on other common bands:

• Aircraft band (VHF, below 2 meters): Performance will be reduced, as this band is significantly lower than the tuned range. It may still work, but it won’t be ideal.
• MURS (VHF) and Marine band (VHF): These bands are closer to the tuned frequencies, so the antenna should work reasonably well, though not perfectly.
• GMRS (UHF): Signal Sticks perform adequately on GMRS, though they won’t provide as much gain as some commercial antennas. However, they can handle more power, offering an advantage in certain situations. The gain should be similar on any antenna with a similar length (about 6 inches long), even the stock antenna if it isn’t shorter than that.

If you plan to operate on frequencies above the tuned range, you have the option of trimming the antenna slightly shorter for better performance. However, measuring SWR accurately can be tricky, as anything you do to measure SWR will itself affect the reading. We recommend doing signal strength tests instead.

Tip: It’s usually best to try the antenna “as-is” before cutting it as it may work fine without changes; also, remember that this only helps for frequencies above the intended range. If you decide to cut it, leave us a note in your order, and we’ll include a spare tip that you can glue on using epoxy or gel superglue.