QWB144 Laird 1/4 Wave Black Antenna 144-152 MHz - 18in Height

In this review of the QWB144 Laird 1/4 Wave BLACK antenna the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, well-made quarterwave antenna for anyone needing reliable performance on the 144-152 MHz range. It is best for radio hobbyists and mobile users who already have a compatible Motorola style mount and want a straightforward antenna-only option. The reviewer found the antenna's brass button contact design and 18in overall height make it easy to match and fit into tight installations while providing very good on-air performance.

Key Features

• Frequency Coverage: Covers 144-152 MHz, providing focused performance for the 2 meter amateur band and other VHF uses.
• Quarterwave Design: The 1/4 wave form offers a predictable radiation pattern and simple installation for common mobile mounts.
• Brass Button Contact: The brass button contact design improves mating with Motorola style mounts and increases contact surface for a better electrical connection.
• Compact Height: At 18in overall height it is short enough for low-profile installations while retaining effective VHF performance.
• Antenna Only: Sold without a mount so users can pair it with the mount that matches their vehicle or base setup.

Who It's For

The QWB144 is aimed at ham radio operators and two-way radio users who need a reliable VHF whip that fits Motorola style mounts. It is especially useful for mobile setups where space is limited but decent performance is required on the 2 meter band.

It is not for users who need a complete mounting solution out of the box, since the product is antenna only and requires a compatible Motorola style mount. Those who need broadband or multi-band coverage should look for a different antenna tailored to their wider frequency needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good on-air performance for the targeted 144-152 MHz range as reported by users working the 2 meter band.
• High quality construction with a brass button contact that enhances electrical contact and matching.
• Compact 18in overall height makes it suitable for low-profile mobile installations.
• Simple quarterwave design keeps installation and tuning straightforward for most users.

Cons

• Mount not included, so a compatible Motorola style mount is required and adds to total cost.
• Single-band design limits use to the specified 144-152 MHz range for those needing broader coverage.

Specifications

Model	QWB144
Brand	Laird
Frequency	144-152 MHz
Type	1/4 Wave antenna
Overall Height	18 in
Mount Compatibility	Motorola style mounts with brass button contact
Package	Antenna only, no mount included

Our Verdict

The QWB144 is a focused, well-built quarterwave antenna that delivers solid performance on the 144-152 MHz band and excellent value when paired with an existing Motorola style mount. It is recommended for hams and mobile two-way users who want a compact, effective antenna and are comfortable supplying the appropriate mount separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the antenna include a mount?
No. This listing is for the antenna only; a compatible Motorola style mount must be purchased separately.

Will it work on the 2 meter ham band?
Yes. The 144-152 MHz coverage is centered on the 2 meter amateur band and users report effective on-air performance.

Why is the brass button contact useful?
The brass button contact improves contact surface area and matching with Motorola style mounts, which can help lower SWR and improve reliability.