The kit came in today and I put it together



Over all it is a nice kit and I would say for the quality priced about right (about 130 shipped)


I made a few minor changes from the manual and now it feel s a little nicer:

The instructions tell you to take some sand paper and smooth out out the ends of the contact
thumb screws I also sanded the "paddle adjust screws" to smooth and slightly round them.
(at first I assembled it as per the manual but it became apparent the screws would most likely gouge in)
I also used a heavier silicone oil/Teflon mix and put a tiny dab on the paddle adjust screws
where they touch the paddle. I also put about a half drop of Breakfree CLP on each pivot pin.

I only use 3 of the 4 stick on feet so the key would not wobble (if you use 4 feet they can wobble)
I also installed the paddle arm upside down to lower it  (it is more comfortable for to use now)

It was missing 1 Allen key, but came with an extra shaft and washer.

Once adjusted it feels nice though the paddle is a little smaller than I like.

The finish is nice, and over all the action is nice.


In the end it let me realize just how rusty my cw has become

I need a second key like a hole in my head, but I really want one. Or the Begali HST

It (the bushwhacker) is a nice key but I like the action of the Kent better

Edit... the more I use it the better it feels

It's nice to have that option.  The standard configuration looks like it would be a little too high for me, too.

It's a sickness.  

I love the paddle I have now, but I want another one just like it, only with a different finish.

It put my wrist at an awkward angle, without the base it would be OK, but with the base it was too high

What I REALLY want is a stainless steel paddle and the Begali traveler. And about 100 different ones I can't name off hand.  But the one I dream of is one of the Hy-mound special paddles they made in the 80s.  But they go for a bit more money that I would ever spend.

Give me my leg key and PRC74. Oh, the good old days.

I once had a CW QSO with a guy from Italy. He was operating a straight key with his LEFT leg.

Thanks for the review - I'm liking my Mini-B so far too.

Hey Harry , how do you attach the cable to it?

Solder Lugs

The manual is  Here