[Elecraft] QRQ CW

[Chuck Smallhouse]

I'm by no means a QRQ CW operator, mainly I use CW for weak signal or 
EME QSOs.  I was barely able to successfully copy 20 WPM, to upgrade 
to Extra Class.  I attribute this to not having good CW capabilities 
when first licensed 67 years ago, but after many, many, high 
concentration, very weak, CW EME QSOs have improved my abilities.

Normal weak signal and EME speeds generally are about 13-15 WPM and 
during contest often extend to 18-20 WPM.  These seems to be good 
compromises for between the maximum speed that EME signals can be 
"decoded", and what most, not so experienced, CW operators are 
comfortable with.

When HF signals reach > 30 WPM I generally can only copy call signs 
after two or three repeats, This fact highly discourages me from 
participating in HF CW contests.

My biggest pet peeve is for HF CW operators to immigrate up to 6M CW, 
and bring their egocentric, extra high speed, "show off" CW, and 
questionable QSO, abilities with them.    Many good DX QSOs are often 
lost or missed in these 35-45 WPM  exhibitions.

Yes, there are V/UHF operators that are using 6M, and would like to 
make an effort to improve their lacking CW skills.  Please give them a break !

Chuck,  W7CS