[Elecraft] CW - SS - Off Topic

[Dan KB6NU]

I really have to disagree.  I advise those getting started with CW to not
bother trying to master a straight key before beginning to use a keyer. I
just don't see how learning to send with a straight key helps anyone send
better with a keyer, and if they're going to eventually use a keyer, why not
just start out with one?

Unless you really enjoy using a straight key, I think it's a disincentive.
It's certainly harder on the wrist. Remember, we're talking about a hobby
here, and a hobby is supposed to be fun. If it's not fun to work CW, fewer
guys are going to operate CW. I'd rather have more CW ops using keyers, than
a few die-hards pounding straight keys.

73!

Dan KB6NU
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President, ARROW Comm. Assn. (www.w8pgw.org)
ARRL MI Section Affiliated Club Coordinator
CW Geek (FISTS #9342)
Read my ham radio blog at www.blurty.com/~kb6nu

----- Original Message -----
From: <N2EY at aol.com>
To: ""Elecraft Reflector"" <elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 2004 12:10 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] CW - SS - Off Topic


> In a message dated 11/10/2004 9:59:20 AM Eastern Standard Time, "Mike
Morrow" <kk5f at earthlink.net> writes:
> >Lee wrote:
> >For example, it's amazing how many
> >of today's ham CW "gurus" advise Morse newcomers >to skip the straight
key
> >and begin with an iambic keyer.
>
> I think that's bad advice, and actually makes it *harder* to learn good
sending.