I've seen conflicting answers of this topic so that's why I'm asking the question.

My question is a simple one: my antenna on my PTS P-51 exits out the bottom of the fuse, and has a knot tied in it and hangs loose after the knot, but apparently is prone to getting eaten by the tailwheel. So I need to deal with it.

Some guys advocate "doubling back" the antenna along the bottom of fuselage and attaching it with a rubber band near the main wing. My question is not how to attach it, I've researched threads on that. My question is: does doubling back the antenna lesson the receivers range ? I've seen conflicting answers. Does the antenna (ideally) need to be stretched out as straight as possible for maximum range or if it's doubled back on itself is that ok ?

Thanks.

Joe