CHA CFM-34 & CHA CFM-16 — Portable Carbon Fiber Masts
Portable 3K Twill Carbon Fiber Masts
Lightweight. Stealthy. Self-Supporting. Built for the Field.
Introducing the next generation of portable carbon fiber masts from Chameleon Antenna.
The CHA CFM-16 and CHA CFM-34 are premium self-supporting telescopic masts designed specifically for amateur radio operators, emergency communicators, military users, and outdoor enthusiasts who need maximum portability without sacrificing strength.
Whether you’re activating a POTA park, operating from a mountain summit, deploying an EMCOMM station, or setting up where trees simply don’t exist, the CHA CFM provides a rugged, lightweight support system for your wire antennas.
Unlike ordinary carbon fiber masts, the new generation CHA CFM series is manufactured entirely from premium 3K Twill Carbon Fiber. This advanced woven construction provides superior durability, improved resistance to splitting and cracking, and better load distribution throughout the mast sections.
The result is a stronger, more reliable mast designed to withstand the demands of real-world field operations.
NEW IMPROVEMENTS
The latest generation CHA CFM-34 incorporates several significant upgrades:
• Premium 3K Twill Carbon Fiber construction throughout the entire mast
• Improved durability and resistance to splitting caused by excessive antenna tension
• Rounded section edges eliminate the sharp corners found on previous versions
• Reduced risk of pinching or cutting fingers during deployment and recovery
• Integrated top ring permanently attached to the mast
• No more lost or forgotten top rings in the field
UNIQUE CHAMELEON DESIGN
A feature that sets the CHA CFM series apart is the integrated stainless steel 3/8-24 base stud, allowing direct compatibility with Chameleon Antenna mounting systems including:
• CHA SPIKE MOUNT
• CHA UCM (Universal Clamp Mount)
• Other compatible 3/8-24 mounting systems
To the best of our knowledge, the CHA CFM series is the only portable amateur radio mast combining a stainless steel 3/8-24 mounting stud with full 3K Twill Carbon Fiber construction.
KEY FEATURES
• Self-Supporting Design — No guying required for normal operation
• Premium 3K Twill Carbon Fiber Construction
• Integrated Stainless Steel 3/8-24 Base Stud
• Ultra-Lightweight and Compact
• Stealth Black Finish
• Corrosion Resistant
• Fast Deployment
• Designed for Amateur Radio and EMCOMM Applications
IDEAL FOR
• Parks on the Air (POTA)
• Summits on the Air (SOTA)
• EMCOMM
• Field Day
• Military Communications
• Preparedness
• Backpacking
• Camping
• RV Travel
• HOA-Friendly Portable Operations
CHA CFM-34 Specifications
• 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: Stainless Steel 3/8-24 Stud
• Color: Stealth Black
• Construction: Full 3K Twill Carbon Fiber
CHA CFM-16 Specifications
• 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: Stainless Steel 3/8-24 Stud
• Color: Stealth Black
• Construction: Full 3K Twill Carbon Fiber
Built for operators who demand portability, reliability, and performance, the CHA CFM-16 and CHA CFM-34 represent the next evolution of portable antenna support systems from Chameleon Antenna.
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
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.
