PA3CVV's keys.
Begali HST key.
I loved operating the straight key until RSI (repetitive strain injury) in my right arm put paid to that. The iambic paddle poses less of a problem, but the glass arm is no match for the pump key. What to do? I tried the straight key with my left arm, but just couldn't get the hang of it. It is as if my right-hand memory gets in the way. I felt I was doing two things: learning left-handed, while 'unlearning' right-handed reflexes. So I decided to train the left hand with what was for me a new mode: side swiping. It is still not easy, but I think the theory might be right. The old synapses are slowly associating the cootie exclusively with the left hand. So much so that when I try side-swiping with my right hand it feels strange and unnatural. The key I opted for is the Begali HST, because it is beautiful, and because it has that handy switch for single lever operation. But I want to try some other cooties before deciding which one works best for me.
[PA3CVV].
TWanger Sideswiper by TW Radio.
And here is my second cootie. Number 6 of the TWanger line produced by G3HGE / Tom. Quite unique in Swiper Land. The attachment to the pole is traditional, with a small strip of flexible metal. But in addition two strong magnets keep the arm central and dampen vibrations, while the contacts on the arm are placed on extending metal strips, giving a soft, smooth feel as they hit their opposite stationary contacts. I think it will take over from the Begali, which is a great key for single lever operators, but perhaps a bit 'clunky' for side swiping. The finger pieces of the TWanger are spaced apart, making for shorter movements of thumb and finger. The effects of yet more spacing would be worth exploring.
[PA3CVV].
FME FM-32 Sideswiper.
This Jablonski FM-32 is the third side swiper I acquired. I was lucky! Despite rumours that 'hundreds' were made in the DDR, this key is not so easy to find. In the end I managed to swap one of my classic pump keys for this cootie. Perhaps not that many were made after all? It is remarkable that on the SSN FM-32 Key Census Page high serial numbers do not figure. The Jab is an absolute pleasure to use: sturdy, yet responsive. Good materials were used. The contacts are silver, narrow spacing can easily be achieved, and once locked it all stays in place. The wonderful TWanger is silent, thanks to its spring contacts. The FM-32 talks back with a soft clickety-click. [PA3CVV].
