[Elecraft] What key?

[Jim Brown]

On Sun,11/30/2014 7:50 PM, Ken G Kopp wrote:
> If you want a paddle, the Benchers are very good.  There isn't as wide a choice in straight keys.

My opinions. :)  In today's world, only a purist needs or wants a 
straight key. I agree the Bencher paddles  are very good, and they're a 
bargain compared to the others mentioned. The least expensive way to buy 
one is used as part of a MFJ keyer that has one built it. That's because 
of MFJ's reputation for quality. :)  I have 3 or 4 Benchers, all bought 
used. Paddles don't wear out.

Several years ago, I fell for a Begali, and I have a hard time sending 
with it.  One of my friends has an N3ZN that he brings to Field Day and 
CQP expeditions. It's a nice looking paddle, but I haven't used it.

So my advice is to buy a used Bencher, and spend on something else only 
after you're a seasoned CW op.

Most rigs have decent keyers, so you only need an outboard keyer for use 
with a contesting program to overcome issues with how they work with 
Windoze to send CW. The Winkey, an inexpensive kit, has become an 
accepted standard.

73, Jim K9YC