Shopping for a pint-size Iambic key

Hello,

very quickly after posting of my personal recommendation for iambic paddles on www.qrz.com forum I got few emails regarding this task.
I was asked for more details about some of the paddles (mainly about these of recommended). So I am re-posting there my original article from the QRZ Forum and I will try to write more about it later.

Unfortunately I can not recommend any of the above mentioned paddles in this thread for many reasons.

If You are looking for something ready to use, rugged, small, but still usable enough then look for Mini Paddle from Palm Radio:
http://www.palm-radio.de/english/empaddle.html

Also the good choice can be for You (I have it) the Black Widow (W5JH) or his Baby Black paddle here:
http://www.w5jh.net/

or AZ Paddle by Arizona ScQRPion here:
http://www.azscqrpions.com/azpaddles.html

The only issue can be that if nothing changed it is the kit. So You have to be able to put it together including the final polishing. But finally it is nice paddle (it is using springs only instead of magnets) for the return but good one and compare to other mini paddles or plastic junks it is most valuable choice I am sure.
 
If You would not like to buy none of these "toys" then You will not make anything wrong with Magnetic Classic from Begali:
http://www.i2rtf.com/html/magnetic_classic.html

The only problem is with uncovered bearings > dust comes in and makes troubles but You can solve it with "nice label". Also prefer the metal finger plates if You will decide for this paddle to avoid backwards vibrations.


The Bencher Hex key is very nice and rugged paddle (I have it also) but adjustment is night mare because of rough threads, You will need to change triangular finger plates for metal standard shape, it is really big for portable and it's pricey:
http://www.mtechnologies.com/bencher/

In general stay far from the toys like Paddettes, KK-1, MK-44, MK-36 and other plastic toys please.

Hope it helps. Do not hesitate to ask me for any help if You want...


73 - Petr, OK1RP

Mercury paddle N2DAN - The Zen of CW Art

Hello,

the Mercury N2DAN paddle is fabulous CW tool known by all CW operators and enthusiasts worldwide.

Vince's, K5VT Mercury N2DAN paddle

 

The official description says "Handcrafted Paddle by Ex-European Machinist to the highest quality standards" and all of them were made upon personal requests by Steve, N2DAN and personalized with serial number, owner's callsign and some others.

Although there is a lot another very high quality paddles on the market the Mercury N2DAN paddle is still evaluated as "The Best".

Beautiful, heavy chrome plating, smooth operation, precisely adjustable, right height on the operating table... the benefits of my original Mercury N2DAN paddle #0062Y also.

The genealogy of my piece of Art is very interesting. It made a journey over 3 continents already and the operating behaviour on the air is impressive.
  
It is heavy weight, heavy precious metal (rhodium) contacts, adjustments that stay put and no vertical movement of the paddle arms. Thanks to Vidi, ZS1EL I am proud owner and really glad to have an original Steve's item.

There are several copy-cat models now available and after Steve's wife sold the patent and it was remarketed it came in a similar form and design.


73 - Petr, OK1RP