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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

ABBREE GMRS 42.5-inch Tactical (SMA-Female) vs Nagoya NA-771 (SMA-Female)

Our pick

Nagoya NA-771 (SMA-Female)$23.98

The Nagoya NA-771 is the clear winner here, scoring 20 points higher and offering genuinely useful performance across VHF and UHF.

The fundamental difference is electrical length. The ABBREE's 1.68 wavelengths at GMRS creates a multi-wavelength radiator that delivers only negative gain despite its 5 dBi claim, which is overstated by approximately 6 dB. The Nagoya performs as advertised because its design actually matches its specifications: at UHF it operates at 5/8 wavelength where it achieves realistic 2.9 dBi gain, while its VHF performance is admittedly compromised at 0.19 wavelengths.

The ABBREE works as a budget backup antenna for GMRS-specific use where its low price matters more than performance. The Nagoya is the better choice for anyone serious about dual-band VHF/UHF work who values a compact platform that doesn't overstate its capabilities.

Buy the ABBREE only if cost is paramount and you need a dedicated GMRS whip. Buy the Nagoya if you want an antenna that actually performs as claimed and works reasonably well across both bands.

The Nagoya NA-771 is the straightforward recommendation. It's more expensive but honest about what you get, and that integrity translates to real utility.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Baofeng UV-5R owner upgrading from stock antenna

    Its 5/8 wave UHF element gives noticeably better repeater and simplex reach than a stock rubber duck.

    NA-771
  • Budget-focused GMRS-only operator

    It costs less and is designed around GMRS frequencies rather than 2m reach.

    ABBREE GMRS 42.5-inch Tactical (SMA-Female)
  • Hiker or POTA activator packing light

    At 53 grams and shorter length, it is easier to carry and has better UHF performance.

    NA-771
  • 70cm-first operator seeking repeater reach

    Its 5/8 wave UHF element gives a clear performance edge on 70cm simplex and repeaters.

    NA-771

Reasons to choose ABBREE GMRS 42.5-inch Tactical (SMA-Female)

  • 33% cheaper ($15.98 vs $23.98)
  • Also covers GMRS (465 MHz)

Reasons to choose Nagoya NA-771 (SMA-Female)

  • Also covers VHF (146 MHz)
  • Gain claim its length supports (the other overstates by about 6 dB)
  • 26.9 in shorter to carry (396 mm vs 1080 mm)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

ABBREE GMRS 42.5-inch Tactical (SMA-Female)SpecNagoya NA-771 (SMA-Female)
$15.98
Price
$23.98
1080 mm
Length
396 mm
5 dBi
Claimed gain
3 dBi
Overstated by about 6 dB
Is that claim credible?
Supported by its length
SMA-Female
Connector
SMA-Female
folding
Type
whip
Yes
Flexible
Yes
61
Overall Score
85
+39% for winner
—
Weight
53g
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

ABBREE GMRS 42.5-inch Tactical (SMA-Female)

$15.98 on Amazon

Nagoya NA-771 (SMA-Female)PICK

$23.98 on Amazon

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