I heard my name being called, so time to chime in....
As many responders have already indicated, 1.2 meter antennas and C-band can only be considered for hobbyist purposes, and the odd usable signal from strong satellites that do not happen to have interference from the proximity of adjacent satellites 2 and 3 degrees away. IF you had to use a 4 foot (1.2 meter) model, an offset type with matching feedhorn or LNBF for the typical 0.6 f/d ratio is a must. Trying to simply hang a conventional LNBF designed for 0.3 to 0.4 f/d ratio will
result in a mismatch (significant loss of potential signals) and disappointing reception.
Those considering any undersized antenna (8 feet or smaller for general across-the-arc C-band reception) should look very carefully at the feedhorn or LNBF device being used. Proper illumination of the antenna with techniques that reduce sidelobes is one way to assure some success. I've had great results with a five foot one piece (no longer made) Paraclipse Hydro antenna, coupled to an ADL RP-1 C-band feedhorn that was carefully tweeked for best signal and minimum sidelobes. That model was generally discontinued by ADL, but you may still find some on the used market, and for single polarity reception, there is also the RP-1 version of the LPF-200 linear C-band feed, which has manual adjustment for optimum alignment when used on a single channel. The homemade "cone" adapters that are appearing are also a good match on offset antennas, to reduce mismatch on conventional feeds or LNBFs.
If you can't find something used locally, current offerings of new C and C/Ku band antennas are quite limited. Metals prices have escalated, and we are now down to one mesh antenna manufacturer in the U.S. (SAMI in Arkansas). As someone that used to have access to 200 dollar ten foot antennas (a decade ago), today's pricing comes as quite a shock. The alternative is multipanel solid six or eight foot
antennas. These are usually produced in the Far East, of materials that are not always consistent in quality, but cheap labor and other shortcuts keep prices down. We carry both six and eight foot models in a polar mount version, but would point out that there are tradeoffs with most of the multipanel solids. The polar mount versions use what I would consider an undersized mast head...2-1/2 inches O.D. It will work, but when you consider that almost all medium sized mesh antennas used 3.5 inch pipe, and that solid reflectors do not catch any less wind resistance, it makes you wonder about stability of such systems in areas exposed to frequent winds. Secondly is the relatively flimsy construction of these antennas. With little back support, one has to ask how well they will keep their shape over time. This is especially noticable on Ku-band. A poorly shaped reflector will not focus properly for a feedhorn.
Bargain antennas can sometimes be just that. Great for hobby use, but dicey if you expect them to perform as good as new several years from now. Use common sense when selecting materials. The old adage that you get what you pay for still applies. The disappointment of reality setting in from a hasty purchase is with you long after the fuzzy glow of getting a great price vanishes.
