By far more generally effective has been attaching a 1/4 wave length steel rod to the side of the antenna casing with tie wraps. From a test point nearly 2 miles away back to the QTH the antenna extension resulted in readability rising from R2-3 to R4-5. I also made contacts over 23, 24 and 30 miles. The first was over a path I wouldn't have expected the H777D to get over. The other two were over open paths to high points at Queensbury and Holme Moss but at higher signal and readability levels than I'd expect with the radio.
I did try fitting a half wave rod but it moved too much while the 1/4 wave stays in place. Anyway, for those with limited means and a short antenna this is an almost cost-free way to extend their range.
