[Fists] Renewed CW interest

[John]

________________________________________
From: John [mailto:thecop at optonline.net] 
Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2006 10:41 AM
To: 'fists at mailman.qth.net'
Good morning,

 I have recently decided to get back into CW after a loooong layoff.  When I

first studied CW to upgrade my ticket, I remember using an old Navy 
"flameproof" key on 80 meters.  Became just proficient enough to pass the 13

wpm, but I had a blast and made so many new friends.  I stopped sending over

time and all but forgot the code.

Now that my interest has been renewed, I purchased a Belcher paddle and an 
Idiom Press CMOS-4.  Although I did not realize it at the time, my 746PRO 
has a built-in keyer, so I'm not sure if I should use it or the CMOS-4.

Here's my dilemma...I am having such a hard time with the paddles that I am 
thinking about purchasing a straight key.  My logic is to use the straight 
key to re-learn CW and then, once that's accomplished, try the paddles 
again.

PLEASE point out any fault with this logic and, if you would, please make a 
recommendation for a good straight key.  

I recently came across an ad. for a used Vibroplex straight key ($85) that
looks beautiful.  Any opinions on how well this key works?

Thank you for your time.

John, KB2COP, FIST #11436
thecop at optonline.net