16 Radials and counting... The lugs of the radial wires are crimped, soldered and then attached with stainless steel hardware. Note the wide tinned copper strap connecting the ground screw of the EHU to the radial plate. RF likes smooth surface. This connection adds to the electrical length of the antenna and must be kept under 12 inches. A second such strap connects the radial plate to the ground rod of the system (7' copper pipe). The grey plastic jacket on the coaxial protects it from UV and critters.