In the realm of paddles (or straight keys for that matter), now is a good time to consider a Begali.  The exchange rate is favorable currently, and the Simplex Basic is priced competitively with a Bencher paddle as a result.  I got the Simplex Basic recently and it is much nicer than the Bencher - and I've used a Bencher for many years with no complaints.

I've never used a Begali straight key, and they are pretty pricey.  My main straight key is a Nye Viking Speed-X, along with a Navy flameproof for backup.  But 95% or more of my operating is with an electronic keyer.

73 de Lee