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The raw materials

I have started the initial stage of collecting materials for the twin paddle key and cut out the basic shape for the 90 degree paddle arms from 2 x 2 x 3/16 aluminium angle stock, and while the actual grade is unknown is is quite a hard and nice to machine, these are at present 2 inches long each side by 0.5 inch deep.

The base for this keyer is a piece of mild steel 4 x 3 x 0.5 inches and weighs in at 1 lb 10 oz.

The bearing block will be made out of a piece of 1.5 inches square by 2 inches long.

All contacts/ adjusters/pillars will be made from brass rod.

The keyer arm tension will be done with rare earth magnets in oposition.

Pictures

Below left and centre are the paddle arms in rough form.

Below right is the keyer base.

Bottom left is aluminium for the bearing block.

Top left and middle

The paddle arms cut from right angle alumininium stock.

Top right.

Main steel base.

Left.

Aluminium stock for bearing block.

Right.

Paddle arms cut to size and rough shaping plus bearing rod holes drilled.