In article , CHANGE USERNAME TO
westes wrote:

How tall was that telescoping antenna?

I do not remember how long it extends to.
IIRC, the formula is 468/f(MHz) gives the wavelength. Multiply by 5/8
to get the antenna length in feet. For 123.0 MHz (middle of the band),
the length is 28.5 inches.

Does anyone sell an off the shelf 5/8 wave telescoping antenna with a strong
magnetic base?

Just purchase a standard ham 2m mag mount antenna and cut a piece of
stainless steel rod that fits the mag mount to the above calculated
length.