Randy, I agree with Rick H and Bill C. I am in the 20WPM comfort zone and 25+ during contests. I also have a key collection on display (~100 keys). I have several examples of each as discussed below if you want to see/feel/touch/use any on the air. Used prices are "typical" for good working condition (8 of 10). If you want a "cream puff," then more. Shipping varies but typically is around $10. For straight keys, I really like the Nye Master Straight Key with the Navy Knob (has a slightly sloped front) as Rick mentioned. You can usually find them on E-Bay for around $20-25. Regardless, be sure you get the Navy Knob. I agree with Rick that if you are under 18WPM, then use a straight key at first. It is important that you get a good "feel" for keying. As far as a paddle is concerned, see the discussion from Rick. Assuming that you are under 35 WPM, then you could use either single paddle or a true Iambic. If you are 35+ WPM, then a true Iambic is probably best. In my opinion, after the straight key, just go straight for the iambic. You ask for the "Best bang for the buck"; that would be the Bencher BY-1. This is a true Iambic. It goes for about $50 - 70 on E-Bay or $160 new. I personally don't like the magnetic Iambics (vs the spring return). I like a little more "feel" than these give. Maybe if I were a regular op at above 30 WPM, it might make a difference. I can't recommend any specific single paddle (though I have a few), as I haven't used them much. As mentioned, after the straight key, just go directly to an Iambic.
I assume that you are not interested in a "bug." I have a dozen or so if you want to try them. Enjoy, Tnx es 73de John From: Bill Crowell via BVARC <[email protected]> To: BVARC <[email protected]> Cc: Bill Crowell <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, December 2, 2015 8:32 AM Subject: Re: [BVARC] best morse code key Hi Randy, Feel free to stop by my QTH and try a few keys. My standard setup is Vibroplex iambic paddles going to a keyer and then a Vibroplex straight key in parallel. I like to leave the keyer set to 18-25WPM, but if I need to work a slower station, I reach for the straight key. I also have Schurr paddles and straight key. German made from solid brass. And if you like to work China, I have a genuine People’s Liberation Army straight key. 73! Bill Crowell, N4HPGPearland, TXText messaging one-handed since 1982 From: BVARC <[email protected]> on behalf of BVARC <[email protected]> Reply-To: BVARC <[email protected]> Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at 11:13 PM To: BVARC <[email protected]> Cc: Randy Pugh <[email protected]> Subject: [BVARC] best morse code key Looking for answers especially from the club cw operators.What is the best cw key for the money?Thanks de AA5OA._______________________________________________BVARC mailing [email protected]http://mail.bvarc.org/mailman/listinfo/bvarc_bvarc.org _______________________________________________ BVARC mailing list [email protected] http://mail.bvarc.org/mailman/listinfo/bvarc_bvarc.org
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