The DTMF keypad on HT's is primarily used for accessing phone patches on
repeaters that are equiped with them. It may also be used for accessing other
things on a repeater too. Contrary to what some people may tell you in this
newsgroup, CW is far from dead. I have an Extra class license and I am working
on improving my CW skills right now. I think I would probably use CW more than
voice once I become proficient in it. Good luck!

Mike KU4UV