This is not a 'hole' this is a simple fact of life with RF equipment The circuitry to avoid this would add more complexity to the setup. Removing the crystal solves the problem. It should have been mentioned in the instructions to the radio. Somewhere along the lines of "Always be sure antenna is fully extended before turning on transmitter" It does say that for a reason. It may not break the first time, or the 20th time, and it's of course all up to you if you want to take chances with your multi hundred dollar radio. RTFI Read the f'ing instructions. Best advice in the world =>