[Elecraft] CW Sweepstakes contest

[Craig D. Smith]

Enjoyed reading of Elecraft owner’s experiences during the contest.  I can
offer a “historical” perspective.  This used to be my favorite contest, as I
was a CW geek (W2BHP, K2RE) and really enjoyed it even with my limited
antenna setup.  Got out of ham radio about 20 years ago, but am starting to
get the bug again.  Listened for about 8 hours with my ICOM R75 and random
wire and certainly got the urge to be able to jump in again!  
 
Some comments on the “top ten” list:  The “new” technology certainly makes a
difference, both positively and negatively.  The item that I noticed most is
the continual CQ calling with limited listening by many many stations.  At
the risk of sounding like an old fart, back in my day we had to call CQ by
hand rather than by pushing a button on the memory keyer.  Now as fatigue
sets in it is easier to push the button rather than listen and search the
band for stations you haven’t worked.  On the positive side, automatic
antenna tuners have made the long tune-ups almost a thing of the past.  I
must say that in all my hours of listening, I didn’t hear any objectionable
tune-ups.  As far as discourteous operators, etc. I’d say it was not any
worse or better than it was back in the “old days”.   Mostly polite.
 
So look for me next November with a new license and K2 or KX1!
 
I’d like to see more results here from Elecraft owners in the contest,
especially QRP.  I heard 75 sections here in Colorado.

Craig D. Smith