POTA33 vs POTA33H: choosing the right 33 ft carbon fiber mast
Both Explorer masts extend to 33 ft, collapse to 27 in, and use twist to lock sections. The main difference is section diameter and stiffness. The POTA33 keeps carry weight low. The POTA33H uses larger diameter, heavy duty sections that feel steadier once deployed, especially when guyed.
- Height: 33 ft on both
- Collapsed length: 27 in on both
- Main difference: 33H has larger diameter, heavier duty sections for added rigidity
Quick answer
Choose POTA33H if you want a calmer, more rigid feel across more sites, plan to guy in light wind, or hang small transformers or chokes lower on the mast with strain relief. Choose POTA33 if lowest pack weight and very fast setups in calm conditions are your priorities.
How to decide in 60 seconds
- Typical weather: breezy parks or open fields → lean 33H. Mostly calm → 33 is appropriate.
- Antenna load: EFHW or linked dipole with a small transformer or choke → 33H feels steadier when guyed. Featherweight random wire → 33 is sufficient.
- Carry priority: counting ounces → 33. Want a wider margin once deployed → 33H.
Side by side at a glance
| Feature | POTA33 | POTA33H |
|---|---|---|
| Extended height | 33 ft | 33 ft |
| Collapsed length | 27 in | 27 in |
| Section design | Lighter, smaller diameter | Heavy duty, larger diameter |
| Carry weight focus | Best | Good |
| Rigidity and stability | Good in calm sites | Better across varied sites |
| Most common choice | Ultralight packs | Everyday use in mixed conditions |
Setup tips for either mast
- Guy in open areas and place the guy ring just below the top third.
- Keep heavier pieces like a small transformer or choke a bit lower on the mast with strain relief.
- Wipe sections clean before locking and recheck locks after the wire settles.
Helpful accessories
Guy ring kit (25 ft masts) • Mastrant guy kit with lines and stakes • Mastrant mast clamp MA1
Shop the masts
- Explorer POTA33 ultralight 33 ft carbon fiber mast: Product page
- Explorer POTA33H heavy duty 33 ft carbon fiber mast: Product page
Local to Huntsville
If you are near North Alabama, you can handle both masts in person, compare rigidity side by side, and get quick setup tips from an ambassador. Store info and hours: GigaParts Huntsville. Near Research Park. Parking on site. Walk ins welcome. For live demos and Q and A, see upcoming events and classes.
FAQ
Do I need to guy these masts
Yes in open or breezy areas for both models. Place the guy point just below the top third and tension evenly.
Which antennas pair well
EFHW, linked dipoles, and light verticals. Keep any transformer or choke a bit lower on the mast and use strain relief.
How portable are they
Both extend to 33 ft and collapse to 27 in. POTA33 is the lighter carry. POTA33H offers a steadier feel once deployed.
How should I think about wind
Use guys in open areas. The POTA33H larger diameter sections provide a wider margin in light wind when properly guyed.
Which model should I choose
Choose POTA33 if lowest pack weight is the priority and sites are calm. Choose POTA33H if you want added rigidity across varied sites.
Can I compare them in person
Yes. If you are near North Alabama, you can handle both models in store and get setup tips:
[link=GigaParts Huntsville — Technology Superstore, Classes & Local Pickup GigaParts.com]GigaParts Huntsville[/link].
For demos and classes, see
[link=https://events.gigaparts.com/?utm_source=connect&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pota33h_connect_2025_10&utm_content=events_page]events[/link].
If you share your antenna type, any feedpoint hardware, and typical wind conditions in the comments, we can suggest guying and section height tips for your exact setup.