New Zealand Straight Key Night Radio Event

Polish and lubricate that old morse key and enjoy an evening of old-time radio fun.

Straight Key Night is an informal event which honours the roots of amateur radio: Morse Code sent with a straight key (no bugs, sideswipers, keyers or keyboards).

This semi-annual event is supported by the
New Zealand Morse Code Telegraph Key Directory.

When

Winter SKN is the second Sunday in June, 8-9pm NZ time.

Summer SKN is the first Sunday in December, 9-10pm NZ time.

Band

80m (3.5 MHz)

Mode

All contacts must be CW-to-CW.

Rules

Maximum transmitter output: 100 watts.

All contacts must be made using a straight key (no bugs, sideswipers, paddles or keyboards). However, an operator who cannot use a straight key by reason of disability may use any type of key or keyboard, although they will not be eligible for the Best Fist Award.

Stations must not ‘park’ on a frequency making multiple contacts. The CQ station must give up the frequency as soon as they finish a contact. Get full details of the QSY Rule.

Exchange

RST (or RSN) / Location / Name / Key / Transmitter / Power

We recommend calling “CQ SKN” or just “SKN” (rather than “CQ TEST”) for clarity and to help promote the event.

We recommend exchanging meaningful RST or RSN, rather than an automatic “599”.

Bruce Scahill Best Fist Award

The Best Fist Award is named in honour of long-time SKN supporter Bruce Scahill ZL1BWG (SK). Please be sure to nominate the ONE operator who you believe had the best fist during SKN. Nominations must be received within one week after the event. More information.

Logs and summary sheets

SKN is an informal event but all participants are encouraged to submit a log and summary sheet, as these help in assessing how the event is working, and whether changes may be needed. You can download the forms below.

PDF format is recommended if you wish to print and fill in by hand.
Word format is recommended if you wish to fill in the forms on your computer.

Log sheet: PDF format | Word .docx format

Summary sheet: PDF format | Word .docx format