CHA CFM-34 & CHA CFM-16 — Portable Carbon Fiber Masts

Lightweight. Stealthy. Self-Supporting. Built for the Field.

When there are no trees to hang your wire antenna—or when regulations prevent it—the CHA CFM-34 and CHA CFM-16 Carbon Fiber Masts from Chameleon Antenna deliver the perfect portable solution. Designed for rugged performance and maximum convenience, these self-supporting telescopic masts require no guying, making deployment fast and effortless.

Key Features

• Self-Supporting Design: No guying required—ideal for rapid setup in field conditions.
• 3/8-24 Base Stud: Compatible with all Chameleon Antenna mounts, including the CHA SPIKE MOUNT and CHA UCM.
• Ultra-Lightweight & Compact: Collapses to a small size for easy transport and storage.
• Carbon Fiber Construction: Durable, corrosion-resistant, and finished in Stealth Black for low visibility operations.
• Versatile Applications: Perfect for Parks on the Air (POTA), Summits on the Air (SOTA), EMCOMM, backpacking, camping, biking, and RVing.

Specifications

CHA CFM-34

• Weight Limit: 1 lb
• Extended Length: 34 ft 7 in
• Collapsed Length: 23 ½ in
• Sections: 20
• Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz
• Base Diameter: 1 13/16 in
• Tip Diameter: 7/32 in
• Base: 3/8-24 Stud
• Color: Stealth Black

CHA CFM-16

• Weight Limit: 1 lb
• Extended Length: 16 ft 5 in
• Collapsed Length: 17 in
• Sections: 14
• Weight: 18.9 oz
• Base Diameter: 1 5/16 in
• Tip Diameter: 7/32 in
• Base: 3/8-24 Stud
• Color: Stealth Black

CHA CFM – Initial Maintenance & Important Information

Recommended Maintenance for New Masts

When you receive your new CHA CFM (Carbon Fiber Mast), we recommend applying a light coat of WD-40 to a clean cloth and wiping down each mast section before the first deployment.

This will remove any residual manufacturing powder and help the sections nest more smoothly.

If you experience resistance when collapsing the mast, gently twist each section while applying light downward pressure.

This twisting action helps break up the initial friction and allows the elements to collapse properly.

What Causes the Sticking?

Some operators may notice that a brand-new carbon fiber mast can feel tight or slightly “stuck” the first few times it is collapsed. This is normal and is typically caused by one or more of the following:

1. Residual Manufacturing Powder

During production, fine carbon dust or mold-release residue can remain on the tube surfaces.

When the mast is deployed for the first time, this ultra-fine material migrates into the nested sections and increases friction temporarily.

2. Tight Precision Tolerances

The CHA CFM is designed with extremely precise tolerances to provide maximum strength and rigidity.

Because the fit is exact, even a small amount of powder or debris can cause temporary sticking until the mast breaks in.

3. Micro-Burrs on Tube Edges

Carbon fiber tubes may have microscopic burrs from the cutting process.

These smooth out naturally after the mast is collapsed and extended a few times.

4. Static Charge Attraction

Carbon fiber can accumulate static during shipping and handling.

Static attracts fine airborne dust, which can also contribute to initial binding.

Normal Break-In Period

After a few full deployment cycles—and after wiping down the elements—the mast will operate smoothly and consistently.

If sticking continues after cleaning and break-in, please contact Chameleon Antenna support for assistance.

NOT TO BE USED FOR PERMANENT INSTALLATIONS

CHA CFM EXTRA RINGS (Hardware)

Adventure-Ready Performance

Engineered for radio operators who demand mobility and reliability, the CHA CFM series combines incredible strength with minimal weight. These masts can handle the toughest field conditions while maintaining the stealth and portability needed for discreet or tactical operations. Whether used as a manpack EMCOMM mast or a portable wire antenna support, the CHA CFM-16 and CFM-34 are ready for any mission.