Some CW operators I know are also collectors of keying devices. I also have a collection of various keying devices. But my intent is not to collect and/or restore devices, but rather to try out the various devices and use them on a regular basis. I am a relatively new CW operator and am intrigued by the variety of devices available. While learning to operate these various devices is exciting; in the long term having different keyers breaks the monotony of pounding brass on a single device. All my keyers [bug, single lever paddle, double lever paddles, straight keys, magnetic return straight keys] are used regularly. It feels great to say "I wonder what keyer should I use today?" All of non-electronic devices are wired in parallel making it easy for me to switch keying devices easily. Sometimes to relieve pain on longer QSOs, I even switch devices mid QSO after letting the other party know.
One should never ask a parent who their favorite child is especially in front of their children! So if you asked me the same question about my keyers, the polite thing to say would be "All of them!". It may be easy to utter a socially acceptable lie to others, but one cannot maintain the charade to oneself. So I asked myself the question and the answer surprised me.
My favorite keying device is my Vibroplex Original Bug! Let me tell you why this turned out to be a surprise. I purchased this used device from QRZ classifieds. When I received the device, not knowing much about bugs, I put it to use immediately. I found that it sounded scratchy sometimes and could never get the DIT intervals to my liking. I tried various things like adding weights to the lever, cleaning with contact cleaners but could never get it just right. However, after giving up on the bug for a while, I decided to take a look at it again! I found a Google result that listed the proper process to adjust the bug put out by the Vibroplex company. I followed it meticulously...and it resulted in a bug that almost sounded like an electronic keyer. Beyond the way it sounded after the adjustments, I fell in love with the cadence of going back and forth; the springiness of the return lever that generated great feedback and the almost unending sequence of dits that a simple mechanical device can send. The mechanical noises of operation punctuated by the occasional clickety clack of the damper damping the return of the lever made me feel more connected as a CW operator! It seemed to fill a certain void left behind by the sterile electronic paddles and plaid straight keys.
Ahem! I do love the other children.. I pull out the other devices for variety on a regular basis. However, my smile seems a little wider when on QSO with my bug!
What about you? Do you have a favorite keying device? Let me know in the comments below..
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