[SOC] Seeking suggestions for new straight key

[Mike Besemer]

Good day all,

I've been thinking lately about trying my hand at the straight key again,
but can honestly say I am not very knowledgeable about modern keys.  Every
now and then I see an ad or an article in one of the ham mags, but would
like to hear from folks who are currently pounding brass with one.

I've been using my old reliable keyer (HD-1410) for the past 25 years or so
and it still works great.  The only reason I gave up the straight key was
because my sending got a bit sloppy at the speeds I liked to operate at.  (I
think my fist was okay up to 15 or 18 wpm, but it was all downhill from
there!)

Anyway, what I'm looking for is:

1) Function - I like a smooth key
2) Heavy or stays in place -  I have a nice operating desk and don't want to
have to attach the key to it
3) Nice to look at - I share my shack with my wife and her hobbies - 'nuff
said!
4) Not going to break the bank - If the darn thing gives me terminal
glass-arm, I don't want to feel like I should have spend my money on beer
instead!

Thanks for your thoughts,

72/73/74,

Mike
KG8L