[Elecraft] paddle key training

[Paul Huff]

Perhaps a little off topic for the Elecraft list, but an interesting thread.

I am so dominantly right handed that even thinking about doing something with my 
left hand "feels" awkward in my mind.  But a couple of years ago I wanted to 
learn how to use a bug.  I had heard from others that switching back and forth 
between a bug and a paddle can be difficult so I decided to first learn how to 
work my paddle with my left hand (dits on the thumb).  I now do all of my paddle 
sending at about 20 wpm with my left hand, and I can switch to a bug on my right 
hand, but the bug work still takes a lot of concentration.  People tell me that 
the bug is "good copy" but they are being generous and I still have a ways to go 
with that.  Straight key work is still on my right and the funny thing is that I 
still work my Palm portable paddle by holding it in my left hand and using my 
right.

An old dog learning new tricks can be a fun challenge!

73,
Paul - N8XMS