I know it is tempting to buy the marketing hype and try the "easy" VHF PL259 connectors sold by companies such as Shakespeare, but please consider the consequences of a failed connection.


The Shakespeare connector pictured was passing zero signal in just two years. It did a horrible job of keeping moisture out and also contacting the shield via the "piercings" through the VHF cable jacket. Other than poor solder jobs this is by far and away the number one type of connecter I see failed in the marine environment.


The VHF radio, is your vessel is so equipped, is a safety device and also a federal requirement to monitor when underway. Cutting corners like this on your VHF connections can be a costly, or even potentially deadly mistake.