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I just got the same radio and spent way too much time researching VHF antennas and the science behind them. I ended up with a black 6 ft Pacific Aerials that I am going to tower mount. Pacific aerials is the only brand with a model line where the antenna connects in the middle of the base allowing you to simply unscrew the antenna and leaving the wire connected to the mounting bracket. As far as performance I went deep into the science and one 6 ft half wave antenna is as good as another. In fact ignore the BS gain numbers. I went 6 ft as that is the longest I can easily stow on the boat (going to add fishing rod holder clips in the ski locker).
Or at least keep it switched to low power, until need the range.
Most claim they are protected, but Iwouldn't play with it. These are OLD technologies.
It was a common problem with old CB radios which would blow a diode if keyed up without an antenna. I worked at Radio Shack in high school and side jobs replacing diodes paid for a lot of dates with @Rana.
Pacific aerials is the only brand with a model line where the antenna connects in the middle of the base allowing you to simply unscrew the antenna and leaving the wire connected to the mounting bracket.
It's all good. Shakespeare doesn't seem to offer a 6' QC antenna which, as you pointed out, is a good size compromise. Pacific Aerials mount I agree is also nicer looking. Just wanted to say there are other options in case those weren't available.
