[Elecraft] Using a Bug

[Philip Westover]

Well Kevin, I am not an experienced ham, having been back in
the hobby for only a few years.  But I operate nearly 100%
CW on the HF bands, and learned on a straight key.  But the
beauty and allure and challenge of a bug hooked me.  It was
one of those things that I always wanted to master.  Kind of
like when I got good a 2-line stunt kite flying, I found out
there were four-line kites that were a real challenge.  My
approach was to make the plunge, buy the bug (just like I
went out got one of those 4-line kites) and went at it.  It
was a bit frustrating at first, but I took my time.
Frankly, I enjoy the bug far more than I do a keyer, except
of course when I go out in the field with my K1 or K2.  The
bug weighs almost as much as my K1, I think!

I have added extra weights to the bug to slow it down even
further (I use one of the newer Vibroplex Blue Racers), but
as time goes on, I have reduced the weight commensurate with
my ability to receive at the higher speeds.

I love the bug. I don't use a straight key anymore.  The one
time I use an electronic keyer is when I use a single paddle
key (not iambic) because that best emulates the action of a
bug...at least that's what I think.

I say "Go for it!"

73,
Phil, WA7URV
Fists #5195
K1 #220
K2 #2690