Hello Doug: The "standard" is for the right hand paddle (operated by the finger of the right hand) to make dashes while the left hand paddle (operated by the thumb of the right hand) makes the dits.
Perhaps it's best to call that the "legacy" orientation since it follows the conventional operation of semi-automatic mechanical keys ("bugs") but, according to comments I've seen, some Hams choose to reverse the operation for their keyers. I believe that the vast majority use the traditional operation. Ron AC7AC -----Original Message----- Hello everyone, I have a very basic question about CW paddle operation. What is the "normal" or "standard" for dot and dash positions on a paddle? Is the dot or dash normally on the left paddle? After 20 years of strictly voice operation I am getting back to CW. I always used a straight key in the past. I am left handed but for some reason I am more comfortable with the paddle at my right hand so I am totally confused. I want to get the dot-dash set up right so I do not have to learn it all over again at another shack. Thanks. Doug W4DAS ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html