[Elecraft] RE: K2 tuning knob...

[John Clifford]

I have access to CNC machining equipment, and have thought about designing
an alternate knob for the K2.  I have an FT-100 knob currently on my K2, and
I also have an Icom IC-706 knob that needs to be modified.

The Icom knob is a little 'thinner' front-to-back than the Yaesu knob, and
the dimple is actually a separate piece that rotates, so there is no wear on
your finger if you rapidly spin the knob.  I think it also looks better than
the FT-100 knob, but it is considerably more expensive... about twice as
expensive.

Here are some ideas I have for an ideal knob:

 - it would have a rubber outer ring like the FT-100 or IC-706 knob
(preferable)
 - it would have a dimple
 - it would match the styling of the K2's other knobs if possible
 - it would have an Elecraft logo and/or optional callsign engraved on it
 - it would be able to use the standard K2 felt washer for drag
 - it would be made of metal and have a matte black finish

Is weight an issue (heavier being more desireable) or would most hams like
the lightest knob to keep the weight down?  Is the flywheel effect offered
by a heavier knob desireable on this rig?

I've seen one knob on a piece of WWII gear that had three equilateral holes,
and a ribbed outer diameter with no rubber ring... that way your finger
could always find a hole to spin the knob with and you could easily grasp
the outer diameter of the knob for fine tuning.

How much would people pay for a custom knob?  How many people would be
interested?  You have to figure that machine time and finishing (anodizing
if the knob was aluminum) would probably make the knob run upwards of $40...
the reason Yaesu and Icom can do it cheaper is economies of scale and that
their knobs are molded rather than machined.

 - jgc

John Clifford KD7KGX

Heathkit HW-9 WARC/HFT-9/HM-9
Elecraft K2 #1678 /KSB2/KIO2/KBT2/KAT2/KNB2/KAF2/KPA100
Ten-Tec Omni VI/Opt1

email: kd7kgx@arrl.net