01/02/2009 | N8XMS SKN is always a fun time. I enjoyed 11 QSOs, all on 40 meters. I ran my Elecraft K1 at 4 watts but sometimes turned it down to 900 mW. My antenna is a Cushcraft R7 vertical that has been up for 15 years. I used an old strap-key that was made by the Department of Engineering Shops at the University of Michigan about 90 years ago. Im an alumnus of U of M so owning and using this key is extra special for me. My vote for the best fist goes to KB6NU who was using a WW2 J37 key strapped to his leg. My most interesting QSO was with KB8TL who was using an 80-year old bug with a Heathkit HW16. Boy, how I wanted an HW16 when I was a Novice! 73 to all and Happy New Year! -- N8XMS