Assembling a LightningBolt Quad The next step is to install the
reflector elements. During element assembly you will work with
the aluminum alloy wire that is supplied on two spools, one for
the reflector loops and one for the driven element loops. It is
solid wire, about 1/16 inch in diameter. Eye protection is
recommended because the wire is like a big spring. Once you
unreel it from the spool it will snap back with a lot of force
if let go and could potentially cause some harm if you are not
careful. If you can have some help during this phase, it will
save some time. It is possible to do this by yourself ( I have)
if planned carefully. If you have a helper, he/she needs to hold
one end of the wire at all times so it does not snap back. If
released, the wire will coil back up and make it very difficult
to feed through the wire holders. Element assembly begins with
measuring and cutting to length the 20 meter reflector loop. Cut
each wire an inch or two longer than needed to allow for
mistakes. The aluminum