 Milestone Technologies |
 a division of Milestone Technologies, Inc. "Everything for the Morse Enthusiast!" |
 |
 |
| Milestone Technologies |
a division of Milestone Technologies, Inc. "Everything for the Morse Enthusiast!" |
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
PLA
Keys
Chinese
Military!
D117/K4
Heavy Key
Click the thumbnail images above to view
in full size!
| New shipment of K4s and K5s
has arrived!
Previously these keys were obtained as military surplus, from a military source. Our current offering comes direct from the factory, "Chengshu Second Communication Equipment Factory"Same keys, brand new, lower prices! |
Variously known as the D-117, the K4, or
just the "Chinese
Army Key" these heavy duty straight keys were made for the Chinese
Peoples'
Liberation Army (PLA). The Chinese phrase "changshu dianxun
qichai
chang" translates as "Changshu Telecommunication Equipment Factory."
In 2000, Morse Express obtained remaining stocks which were purchased direct from the PLA as surplus. They are mostly in factory new condition, with some showing a bit of "warehouse wear" such as deteriorated packaging and dust. Supplies were limited, and apart from being a good heavy-duty straight key, they are also very collectable. See our Collectors' Corner page for some of the "varieties."
Late in 2003 we were able to get in touch with the factory, and were delighted to discover that the keys are still in production, and by going direct to the factory, we were able to get better prices. They are still expensive to ship from China, of course, but we are happy to pass the savings along to our customers.
The keys have chrome plating, machined needle bearings for the trunion, hard silver (K4) or copper (K5) contacts, and a felt pad on the base. They weigh around two and a quarter pounds each! Approximate base dimensions are 2-3/4 x 4-3/4 inches. They're 2-1/2 inches high and the center of the knob is forward of the base about an inch.
The D117/K4 keys are excellent value at $69.95
"The D117 key is the best value in a key purchase I have made over the last twenty five years. Morse Express does it again."
--Mario, W6OH"The D117 is a great key-- China's loss and my gain. Thankyou Mr. Chou En Lai!"
-Don, KB8KRD
K7
"Big John" Training Key
Click the thumbnail image above to view in
full size!
| The K7 keys are out of production. The info will remain here for reference purposes. |
This is the key the PLA uses to train its new Morse operators. If he survives the three months of training, the "Big John Soldier" (recruit) is given a K4 or D117 for operational use.
These are inexpensive keys, on heavy composite bases, but they are well made, fully adjustable, and feature nice touches like genuine needle bearings and seats for the trunion. Cord with 1/4" phone plug on the end is included. The cord attaches to binding posts, and the wiring on the base is recessed into routed channels.
The base measures just a bit smaller than the D117/K4, and the total weight of the key is a mere 8 ounces.
|
or call 303-752-3382 for more information |
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