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Modern
Iambic paddles that are used with electronic keyers. |
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Bencher BY-2 Iambic Paddle: This is the paddle that I have
used for more than 20 years in my station! From
Bencher: The world famous BY series of iambic paddles are
the standard that other iambic paddles are measured against. We have sold well over
100,000 of these paddles, surely far and away, the most popular
iambic paddle ever. |
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Bencher Hex Iambic Paddle: I also use this paddle in my own
shack. From
Bencher: This unique design is classic Bencher – attractive
to the eye and a perfect match for the fingers of the proficient
CW operator. Fully iambic, this innovative design utilizes
magnets for tensioning, and unlike some rather expensive
European designs, allows separate individual tensioning
adjustment for dot and dash contacts. Certainly one of the
heaviest paddles available, weighing in at well over three
pounds, (1.4 kilos) the components throughout are tough and
sturdy, built to last. |
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Brown Brothers Model BTL Iambic Paddle: This is a
Brown Bros.
Model BTL iambic Paddle made in St. Louis,
Missouri. These keys were hand-made from 1964 to
1979 by Bill Brown who made the die-cast machine and all
the parts himself. He also designed, painted and labeled
each key ever made by the BBMC. Purchased at the
Connecticut State Ham Convention October 2007.
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Ham-Key Model HK-1 Iambic Paddle:
This is a Ham Key Iambic Paddle with unique red plastic paddle
handles. Ham-Key was a common Amateur radio key made in
the 60's and 70's. The label on the back says "Model
HK-1 The Ham-Key Company, St. Louis, MO 63132”. It has
a great action, even by today’s standards. I also
use this paddle in my own station. It still works
great!
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Kitano Key Company Paddle: This is a miniature key with black
horizontal plastic paddles. You push down on the paddles to work the
key. The solid brass base measures 3" x 1 1/2" . "The letters KK" are in
a circle logo on top of the key. Written on the bottom is "Kit Raymond"
"Nov.20, 1995" "Serial #219" "Kitano Key Company." I bought this unique
hand made paddle at a hamfest in Golden, Colorado. Only 200 or so were
made.
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KL9LU Customized Model BD-5 Bulldog Iambic Paddle: From K9LU: Besides personalized call letters and
serial number this handsome key features brass/gold accents and a ˝”
thick solid oak base with 4 suction cups. This Bulldog BD5 makes a great
base station key , yet is small and rugged enough to take along on
portable outings. It has adjustable spacing and tension and a smooth
action that rivals or surpasses the feel of most full size keys.
K9LU
Web Site. |
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American Morse Equipment DCP Paddle
This is the DCP (Dirt Cheap
Paddle) from American Morse Equipment in San Luis Obispo, CA. The paddle
comes in a kit and I bought this paddle from
Doug, the owner at the Dayton Hamfest in 2008. It works very well.
Photo courtesy of American Morse Equipment. |
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Mechanical Automatic Keys -- Bugs |
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Vibroplex Blue Racer Mechanical
Bug:
This is either a 1919 or 1920 model. It
was built in New York City and was designed to be carried in the
operator’s pocket. Purchased from a friend who bought it at an
auction.
The Vibroplex Collector's Page
http://www.la.ca.us/frandy/index.html
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Vibroplex Standard Bug: A classic
Vibroplex mechanical bug. According to the
serial number, this key was manufactured in 1958. It works and looks
great! This key came from my friend John, KC1XM.
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Vibroplex Lightning Bug: This Vibroplex Bug has a black base with gold
pin striping. This is a 1933 "Lightning Bug" model. It was owned by
George Hart, W1NJM, of Newington, CT. George worked for the ARRL for
over 40 years and he was Communications Manager when he retired. He sold
me this key.
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Lafayette/Hi-Mound Bug: This mechanical bug was marketed widely by
Lafayette Radio and Radio Shack in the 1960s. It was manufactured from
1953 to 1968 by Dentsuseiki which then became Hi-Mound. The word
''Japan'' is usually found moulded into the bottom. The clear plastic
cover is often missing or broken. It has an excellent ''crisp'' feel
when properly adjusted -
Tom
Perrera
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