[Elecraft] Elecraft Hex Key worth?

[Fred Jensen]

I had a HexKey from Elecraft for quite awhile.  It was basically the 
Bencher BY-1 paddle mechanism on a hexagonal base that was somewhat 
heavier [and more stable] than the BY-1 base.  Dave, W8FGU, made me a cover.

A deficiency in both the BY-1 and HexKey was the contact adjustment 
screws.  The threads are fairly coarse and adjustment was very touchy 
and not readily repeatable.

Old injuries and resultant arthritis in my hands was making the HexKey 
hard to use and I now use an N3ZN single-lever which has really helped.  
Additionally, the adjustment screws are 52 TPI and very easy to get 
right.  The ZN-SL is also on a much heavier base and never moves.  Dave 
made a cover for it too.

73,

Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW
Sparks NV DM09dn
Washoe County

On 1/10/2018 3:18 AM, Petr, OK1RP/M0SIS wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> just small note...
>
> The Hex key is NOT the Mercury copy.
>
> Bencher is making their own Mercury, N2DAN keys under license and their Hex
> key is another product with a bit different concept.
>   
> The Hex key is simplified paddle. It is high standard paddle but not
> comparable with the Mercury, N2DAN.
> The fine wide range and proper adjustment of the Mercury N2DAN is completely
> "different story" compare to Hex key.
>
> http://www.vibroplex.com/contents/en-us/p206.html
> http://www.vibroplex.com/contents/en-us/p250.html
>
> 2c...
>
> Best 73 - Petr, OK1RP
>