I work CW nearly every day and have logged over 385,000 CW contacts since 1965 (including regular QSOs and also contests) but never joined SKCC. One reason is, I don't use any straight or mechanical keys. I've been using electronic keyers and paddles since 1967, but for two years did use a Vibroplex semi-automatic "bug" and/or hand key. I like keyers a lot better: They're easier! But I can slow down to about any speed, as all my keyers will dial down to about 8 wpm. To encourage newer ops I do dial up the bands, above 14.050 and 7.050, and even above 7.100 and stuff where I hear "CQ SKCC" often. I thought these CQs were for "anyone" to answer, but it seems I'm wrong about that. A few times just this week I answered "CQ SKCC" calls and was immediately asked for my SKCC number. I don't have one, and sent that. That lead to "73" and the same station calling CQ SKCC again. I guess many are just looking to exchange numbers and not really have a contact. Is this really the case? If so, I'm really glad I never joined!
For a number of operators, it's a lot like 10-10: no number, no contact. I call CQ SKCC but will take any caller regardless. Not all members view it that way I guess Dave W7UUU
I'm always on the hunt for new SKCC numbers, but when I CQ I don't include SKCC. These days with conditions what they are, I'm just looking to make contact with SOMEONE. Rick K8PRG
I have NEVER heard an OP "immedietly" ask for SKCC no. When replied to, they give RST, QTH, name, and nr......then you answer with your info and let them know you are not a member. That by the way, in anyone's book is a "real contact".
I've never let not being a member of a fraternity stop me from having a QSO, no matter how long (or short). According to the WA7BNM Contest Calendar, this past weekend was the monthly SKCC Weekend Sprintathon (link). Contestants are required to use straight keys, sideswipers/cooties, or bugs but, membership in SKCC is NOT required. If I had known about it, I might've participated using my Nye straight key, or my K1EL WinKeyerUSB (configured as a bug). Bryan WA7PRC SKCC 2507
If you like I'll provide you with the callsigns of those whose first transmission was "SKCC NR?" before sending anything else at all. No kidding.
Since there's nothing that can be done about it and it causes no harm, rather than kvetch about it, I'd just move along. Bryan WA7PRC SKCC 2507
I believe it is Steve. Some seem to make it their sole purpose to collect numbers. When I first joined, I would call CQ SKCC. I stopped doing that when my qso's started dropping off after I worked all the ones that are regularly on the air. I now just call CQ (when I DO call CQ, which isn't really that often... there's always someone ELSE calling CQ that I can answer). I do enjoy SKCC but do feel that it definitely promotes the 'wham bam thank you ma'am' QSO concept, which I'm not a big fan of. I like to chew the rag now and then. On the other hand though... when I've only got 15 minutes to operate, I WILL look for an SKCC CQ because I know I can gitter done before dinner bell. I should mention that I DO enjoy the weekend sprints...
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