01/03/2005 | WA7CS SKN began by firing up the Elecraft K2. My second SKN QSO was with WD8OCV.
Don asked why I was running a K2 and not my old Drake B-Line Twin boat anchors.
That did it!
I unplugged the K2 and fired up the venerable old Drakes.
The Twins slowly came to life and performed like the true champions they are. I just wish the same could be said about my fist!

In previous years, I had always stuck to the letter of the law, and operated with a pure straight key. Every year it has been the nickel-plated Johnson Speed-X that my Mom and Dad gave to me on Christmas of 1971. This year, however I decided that I would kick up my heels and run SKN with the Lionel J-36.

The first couple of QSOs were really rough, but I slowly began to regain my bug fist. One brass pounder even said my bug sounded just like a an electronic keyer. A very kind and generous soul he was!

In any event, I'd bet that I won't get many votes for best fist this year!

SKN is a real blast. The air was full of signals, and my-oh-my, there were truly some fists to behold. Thank goodness for electronic keyers!

Carl
WA7CS
QLF from Pasco, WA -- WA7CS