Anyone with a roof NMO?

[ntsqd]

I use a Unibit. I do not like hole saws in sheet metal.

 

[Chazz Layne]

I just used a good quality "metal" 3/8ths drill bit, the Diamond NMO mounts don't need anything bigger (not sure on the others).

Also, covering the area with masking tape helps prevent chips to the paint when you break through with the bit.

 

[BlackX]

I run an NMO on my rear hatch. The antenna just unscrews and I place a cap on the mount when not in use so I can fit in garages.

 

[taugust]

I have smacked mine more than once. I actually ripped the antenna off the mount going into the garage. I bent the mount and the antenna, and the roof a little. The foldover on my Diamond 7900 works but is a pain to get out and in all the time in low tree forests. When it's folded, it's not good to transmit, so group comms is a pain. I had that situation yesterday. I forgot to bring a shorter flexible whip and my handheld battery died. Oh well. Having both antennas is a good idea if clearance on the trail is an issue.

NMO is the way to go, only thing I worry about is forgetting its there when I go into a parking structure.

 

[Hedge]

One consideration might be a spring between the base coil and the antenna. Larsen makes both a 2m and a 2m/70cm dual band antenna designed for use with a spring on top of a NMO mount.

Larsen dual-band w/spring: