On Sun,11/30/2014 7:50 PM, Ken G Kopp wrote:
If you want a paddle, the Benchers are very good. There isn't as wide a choice in straight keys.
My opinions. :) In today's world, only a purist needs or wants a straight key. I agree the Bencher paddles are very good, and they're a bargain compared to the others mentioned. The least expensive way to buy one is used as part of a MFJ keyer that has one built it. That's because of MFJ's reputation for quality. :) I have 3 or 4 Benchers, all bought used. Paddles don't wear out.
Several years ago, I fell for a Begali, and I have a hard time sending with it. One of my friends has an N3ZN that he brings to Field Day and CQP expeditions. It's a nice looking paddle, but I haven't used it.
So my advice is to buy a used Bencher, and spend on something else only after you're a seasoned CW op.
Most rigs have decent keyers, so you only need an outboard keyer for use with a contesting program to overcome issues with how they work with Windoze to send CW. The Winkey, an inexpensive kit, has become an accepted standard.
73, Jim K9YC ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to [email protected]
