Harold R. Kramer, Amateur Radio Station WJ1B  - Bugs and Paddles


Collection Info Amateur Keys Bugs and Paddles Commercial Keys International McElroy Keys Memorabilia Toy Keys Unique Keys US Military

Modern Iambic paddles that are used with electronic keyers. 

Bencher BY 2 Paddle 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.

Bencher Hex Paddle 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.

Brown Bros. Iambic Paddle 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.    

Ham-Key Paddle

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!

Kitano Paddle 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.
 

Bulldog Paddle 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.

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.

Mechanical Automatic Keys -- Bugs

Vibroplex Blue Racer

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

Vibroplex Standard Bug 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.
 

Vibroplex Lightning Bug 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.
 

Hi-Mound Bug 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