[CW] Straight key vs paddle

[scott mcmullen]

--- On Sun, 4/18/10, Michiel Wories <mwories at hotmail.com> wrote:
 
> Lots of useful suggestions and heard some rationale 
> to use a straight key. Would it impair my ability to learn 
> straight key if I started with a bug first?
 
It won't impair your ability to learn a straight key, but
it might impair your ability to solicit contacts!

Here is the advice offered in my copy of "The Radio Amateur's
Operating Manual" (ARRL @1972) p29:

------------------------------------------------------------------

Using Speed Keys

Using an automatic key should wait until your code speed is a
good solid 16 w.p.m. or better. Then practice with a "bug" or
electronic keyer off the air until you have it entirely 
mastered. Despite some advice to the contrary, however, it is
a good idea to shift to an automatic key of some kind after your
receiving speed is up to where it is hard to send good clean
code that fast with a hand key. What this speed is, varies with
the individual but most operators begin to feel pushed on a hand
key if they try to send more than 18 or 20 w.p.m.

------------------------------------------------------------------

After 38 years, I still thinks that's excellent advice!

73
Scott W5ESE