Key Features
- Carbon fiber telescopic mast – strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant
- Self-supporting design – typically no guy lines required in calm to moderate conditions
- Ultra-portable – collapses to a compact size for easy field transport
- Standard 3/8-24 base stud – compatible with most portable antenna bases and mounts
- Stealth black finish – discreet appearance for field and tactical deployments
Specifications
| Extended Length | 5.0 m (16 ft 5 in) |
|---|---|
| Collapsed Length | 43 cm (17 in) |
| Weight | 0.54 kg (18.9 oz) |
| Number of Sections | 14 |
| Maximum Recommended Load | 0.45 kg (1 lb) |
| Base Diameter | 33 mm (1 5/16 in) |
| Tip Diameter | 5.6 mm (7/32 in) |
| Base Thread | 3/8-24 |
| Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Colour | Black |
Ideal Uses
The CFM-16 portable mast is optimised for lightweight antenna systems, including:
- End-fed and random-wire HF antennas
- Lightweight vertical antennas
- Slopers and inverted-V wire antennas
- Portable HF stations for parks, summits, and emergency use
Its height and rigidity make it particularly effective for portable HF operation, improving antenna support and deployment flexibility while maintaining excellent packability.
Why Choose the Chameleon CFM-16
The CFM-16 carbon fiber portable mast is a recent addition to Chameleon’s portable support lineup, designed to meet the growing demand for lighter, more compact field masts. As a new product, long-term field data is still limited; however, initial customer impressions and dealer feedback consistently point to high build quality, good rigidity for its size, and very compact packability. Early users note that the mast performs as expected for a lightweight carbon-fiber design, particularly with end-fed wires, lightweight verticals, and portable HF antenna systems. Setup is generally straightforward, and the self-supporting design works well in calm to moderate conditions when used within the recommended load limits. Backed by Chameleon Antenna’s established reputation for field-oriented amateur radio gear, the CFM-16 is a strong choice for operators who prioritise portability, fast deployment, and compatibility with common portable mounting solutions.
Related Products
If you need a more compact and ultra-lightweight solution for backpacking or minimal field setups, consider the Chameleon CFM-34 Carbon Fiber Portable Mast. It offers the same build quality and portability in a shorter 5.0 m format, ideal for lightweight wire antennas and rapid deployments.
Initial Maintenance
Before first use, it is recommended to fully extend and retract the mast several times to ensure all telescopic sections move freely. This helps seat the sections evenly and removes any residual manufacturing dust from transport and storage. Periodically wiping the exterior of each section with a clean, dry cloth will help maintain smooth operation, especially after use in dusty, sandy, or damp environments. No lubrication is required for normal operation; keeping the mast clean and dry will provide the best long-term performance.
Recommended Accessories
- Portable ground spike or base mount
- Lightweight guying kit (recommended in windy conditions)
- End-fed or portable HF antennas
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