BIG Morse Keys

Under Construction

In the beginning, all wireless keys were large compared to keys used for land-line telegraphy. During the spark era, the key was typically placed directly in the primary circuit of the spark transformer and it was not uncommon to see keys rated to key 300 volts or more at 15 amps! With the transition to CW, keys could and did become smaller and, by WW II, military keys had become quite compact.

This Nye Model  312 key is typical. While the precise mechanism and details such as the knob may differ, the keys of this type are characterized by a low profile with the key operated with the forearm resting on the operating table. Aside from compact design, such keys (like the many J-38 military variants) are easily enclosed to produce a "flame-proof" key that can safely be used where flammable vapors may be a problem. If you entered Amateur Radio in the post-war years, this was the basic design for straight keys in the US and, with minor variations, in much of the world.

Some folks love these "American-style" keys and it was easy, especially in the U.S., to overlook the fact that larger, more massive keys, were still in use, particularly in Europe. In fact, they are often referred to as "English-style" keys.

My passion for "big" keys began with the acquisition of a replica of the Marconi spark key from the liner R.M.S.Titanic. The key was marketed by Alpha Delta and manufactured by Kent Engineers in the UK. I have been a Titanic buff for many years and could not resist adding the key to my memorabilia collection. It sat on the shelf for many months until I determined that it was a shame not to use it, so I put it on the air for SKN in 2001. Unfortunately, I tried to use it like one of those whimpy, flat,  J-38 American-style keys and was thoroughly discouraged. I could barely get through a QSO and wondered how anyone could use such a key for an 8+ hour shift! Well, the problem was, of course, that I was using it improperly. After reading the older wireless literature, I realized my mistake and set about  learning to use it properly. Now I find such keys are almost effortless to use and can fill a log page without fatigue or discomfort.

That said, there are lots of things about the key that I do not like. First, it is touted as an "authentic" replica (whatever that means), but it only rather loosely resembles keys of the period. Here are some of the specific problems:

• The wooden base is not weighted (their standard straight key, shown below, has a weighted base) and thus requires stabilization.

• An authentic key of the period would probably have a stone base as the keys would get very hot and a wooden base would be a fire hazard.

• The knob used is simply the standard one used by Kent for their straight key. Both the top of the key and the skirt are rather sharp-edged and the key is uncomfortable on the fingers with extended use. Replacement or modification of the knob would solve this "problem".

• One big gripe I have about the Titanic model is that the engraved label is on the right side of the base where it cannot be seen when the key is in use (see above)!

In short, the key introduced me to the more massive English-style keys, but it wasn't ideal as my long-term key of choice. If you are a Titanic collector, the key is still available through the  Titanic Historical Society . The link will take you to the on-line shop, at which point you should type "titanic wireless key" in the search window. The cost of the key is $169.95 to members and $199.95 for non-members. If you just want a modest introduction to larger keys, the Kent SK-1 (shown below) is a much better bargain and a better key. If you are not deterred by the price, but are interested in the best possible key, take a look at other keys later on this page!
 

 Kent Engineers makes other keys and paddles, including this Model SK-1 standard straight key. This particular key is also available on a steel base. Actually the SK-1 is better-built than the Titanic replica. Both keys have a good action but the otherwise solid quality of the SK-1 is marred by the use of a cheap injection-molded knob/skirt. The injection moulding leaved a rough spot on the edge and the edges are too sharp to be comfortable with extended use. Never-the-less, the SK-1 represents a highly affordable entry into the world of large keys and the knob can always be altered or replaced.
 

A big step up in the large key market is the classic Swedish Pump key, manufactured by Lennart Pettersson in Sweden (Model 39001) and marketed in the U.S. by  Morse Express. This key has a marvelous, smooth action with the spring tension provided by a brass torsion (leaf) spring. A great key from the original manufacturer!
 

Here is another variant on the Swedish Pump, in this case manufactured by Hi-Mound in Japan (Model HK-802). This particular key is also available through Morse Express. Both of these keys are reasonably heavy and will tend to stay where you put them. I am presently using the HK-802 and I love it! I have retired my keyer since putting the key into service. My default keying speed with the Titanic replica was about 14 wpm. Although that key was much less tiring to use than a comparable American-style key, you did start to get some fatigue after a few hours, probably as much due to the knob as anything else. The Hi-Mound key really is effortless and the default keying speed was about 18 wpm. It costs more than most of my QRP rigs and is worth every penny!

When it comes to production straight keys, this GHD GT501M (Japan) may be the top of the food chain, although I am sure many custom key-makers would take exception. This key, which is also marketed in the U.S. by Morse Express, features a perfect chrome finish, micrometer (literally!) adjustment of contact spacing, ceramic contact insulator, and an unbelievable action.
 

I have covered some of the major options for larger keys but have not exhausted the subject.  G4ZPY  makes fine custom keys, many of which quality in my Big Keys category. As time passes, I will add additional links to key makers, but don't hesitate to search the Web on your own if the subject interests you.

Ralph E. Taggart (Gyrobee@aol.com)