Thanks for another SKN event (this was my 15th year in a row). This year was a challenge between tree straight keys: J-45 (strapped to the leg), a Junker (German key) and a cheap plastic Heathkit straight key (El Cheapo). It was a real race; hi hi 

At first the propagation was not good, but it got better later. First went the plastic Heathkiy key, a few QSO later I changed to the J-45 attached to my leg, and then the Junker straight key . Although this last is a very fine key and an example of German engineering, my personal impression was like a mix between an old Mercedes Benz and a Panzer tank, hi hi. And the winner was... The (El Cheapo) Heathkit plastic straight key. To my it rivals the best cw keys today.

I feel sorry about the very cold weather. Most of the operators I worked where chilled. The weather in Panama was warm and sunny. Sorry again.

Thanks for the effort to bring another SKN event and I wish a Happy New Year 2018 to all, and all of the ARRL staff.

Hasta la vista, amigos!!!

Hank - HP1IBF