I have crimped them with the generic tool you use for the ring terminals and 
what not. It's not as nice looking but usually works. I just rather have the 
right tool which only cost me about $35 when I got it. It will last a while 
and I have another crimp tool in a kit for crimping coax connectors which 
will take the same dyes so you could say I have a backup should one or the 
other fail. I'll probably never have to buy another one so to me, it's well 
worth it.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Tom Behler" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Saturday, March 29, 2014 9:17 PM
Subject: Re: best method to use when connecting a radios power terminals?


> Jim:
>
> Well, the nice thing about the power poles is that you never have to worry
> about accidentally reversing the leads on your equipment, as long as they
> have been done correctly in the first place.
>
> Regarding the price for the crimping tool, I agree it is somewhat steep.
> But, the crimp connections that result are incredibly strong and
> electrically sound.  This is especially appealing to me.
>
> Granted, you could probably crimp the power pole connection terminals onto
> your power leads with another cheaper tool, but I'm not sure the 
> connections
> would be as robust, and I think it would be hard to do it in a way so that
> the terminals properly fit into the power pole housings themselves.
>
> This, of course, is just my opinion, and is probably as valid as yours or
> any other list members.
>
> So, take it for the two cents that it is worth.  (smile)
>
> Tom Behler: KB8TYJ
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
> On Behalf Of Jim Gammon
> Sent: Saturday, March 29, 2014 1:18 PM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: best method to use when connecting a radios power terminals?
>
> Tom, I agree with you that Anderson Power Poles are great and use them 
> here,
> but I think they and especially the crimping tool are overpriced.  73, Jim
> WA6EKS