[CW] bugs on SKN ??

[N2EY at aol.com]

In a message dated 12/29/05 10:43:54 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
Abqcooks at aol.com writes:


> I wonder what is the feeling on using bugs for straight key night....
> are they considered straight keys ?? 

The ARRL changed the definition/rules last year. Prior to SKN 2005 (it took 
place January 1, 2005), you were only supposed to use "straight keys" on SKN. 
But in the announcement for SKN 2005 (QST, December 2004), they defined bugs as 
a type of straight key".

Any type of purely-mechanical Morse Code key is now allowed - bugs, 
sideswipers, even a Melehan Valiant. Just no electronic keyers or keyboards.

Personally I think that's a bunch of bunk. A bug is a completely different 
thing
from a straight key.

So I'll be using my J-37 for SKN unless someone requests that I use one of my 
bugs. And I'll include a comment that SKN
should be for straight keys only in my writeup. Other than that I'm not going 
to make
any sort of deal is somebody uses a bug on SKN.

If we all use straight keys on SKN, it will still truly be Straight Key 
Night, won't it?

(scraping sound of soapbox being pulled away)

73 de Jim, N2EY