Morse Code Sideswiper (Cootie) Key

thingiverse

Mar 7 2018: Added an STL file to print two small wrenches to assist adjustment of the contacts. See photos. This is my take on a Morse Code sideswiper key, (also called cootie keys.) Unlike the traditional telegraph key which uses an up-and-down motion, the sideswiper makes contact on either side of a flexible arm, making for much less hand and wrist fatigue. This key uses a short length of hacksaw blade as the lever arm; this is a ham radio tradition for these kind of keys, which were often home-brewed out of inexpensive materials on hand. This key was inspired by the design found here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1662382