Whenever you get a bunch of guys together to build, fix or mess with something, duct tape seems to be a universal tool. Sometimes though, one of The Guys chimes in with the comment about “well, duct tape is OK but gaffer tape is much better.” See the Wikipedia entry for Gaffer Tape.
Well, I finally listened to those guys and bought some gaffer tape on Amazon.com. I used this at a recent ham radio event to secure cables, support various masts and lash things together. You know, basic duct tape stuff.
I have to admit that this gaffer tape is really, really good. It is more cloth and less vinyl than duct tape and the adhesive does not leave a residue. Yes, it is more expensive than duct tape. Funny, how that always seems to be the case for higher quality products.
– 73, Bob K0NR
One potential downside: at an outdoor event with a few days of sun you may have problems with sticky glue residue on your cables.
I’ve been using “Gaffer Tape” for several years. I’ve used it to stick mosquito net to the outside of my van and left it there for a couple of days in hot sun. No residue, good stick. It’s easy to rip into smaller strips if necessary. There’s a reason it’s used in theater, it’s reliable, easy to use, and doesn’t damage stage structure or surfaces. It also comes in multiple colors, including glow-in-the-dark.