I started out using a straight key 33 years ago, but I see
absolutely no reason why you shouldn't just skip the
straight key and start using a paddle/keyer combo right
away. Most rigs come with built-in keyers these days, and if
your rig does not, it's very simple to buy and build one (my
favorite is the PicoKeyer from hamgadgets.com). And in the
worst case scenario, you can always use one side of a paddle
as a straight key.
One reason I advise people to learn to send using paddles is
that they'll send better code right off. The second
reason--and perhaps the most important--is that the paddle
is so much easier the arm and wrist than a straight key.
That makes working CW more fun, and if something is more
fun, then you'll tend to do it more.
73!
Dan KB6NU
=================================================
President, ARROW Comm. Assn. (www.w8pgw.org)
ARRL MI Section Affiliated Club Coordinator
CW Geek - FISTS #9342
Read my ham radio blog at www.kb6nu.com
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Comrades,
I'm working on my code to get my licenses soon. I will want to do CW with the k2 I will buy and build on board our trawler. 1st mate and CFO watches expenses like a hawk and will catch me if I (gasp) buy two things which appear to do same thing. You can't hide much from her on the 36 boat we live on. I intend to get the $80 MFJ code reader because some of you have convinced me that it is a good detector of unreadable output. I'm hoping to get my speed and accuracy up by sending to the MFJ.
If I ultimately intend to use paddles as most of you appear to be doing, why is it a bad idea simply to start with a set? I can understand that what I'm really wanting to do is to train my "fist" and ears, but it looks like paddles involve somewhat different monkey motions and maybe it would make more sense just to buy a set and get on with it.
comments?
regards, John Ferguson - M/V Arcadian (now in Norfolk,VA waiting for wave amplitude reduction in Chesapeake Bay before continuing northward)
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