request: Homebrew CW paddles

[KD0BVQ]

The XYL and I have taken on CW. the 1st beginner class was last Sat in Jeff City. Now we need paddles (we have been advised to skip the straight-key thing).

Buying new has little appeal. There must be dozens of disused or neglected paddles "out there". I have read that more than 95% of all Hams prior to 2007 (when Code was mandatory) are no longer active or even competent in Code. And what of all those "silent keys".

Or maybe, make my own. Any hints, support, or help ?

Thanks,

Hank
KD0BVQ

[km0r]

Hi Hank,

Here is one idea. While it isn't the most elegant I've seen, it does appear to be functional.



Take a look at the site listed below, there are many ideas for building keys/paddles and whatnot. Maybe Dale, Jim or some of the other ops who work CW regularly have thoughts too...

http://chss.montclair.edu/~pererat/m9900.htm