[CQ-Contest] Real hams don't XXX.

[Guy Olinger, K2AV]

A small sampling of my collection of "Real hams don't" heard over the
years:


Real hams don't use bugs. All those extra dits never under control ...
Dah dit dit dit dit dit dit instead of a real B. Real hams use a
straight key.

Real hams don't use SSB, it sounds like pig squeals and you have to
keep tuning it in. Real hams use AM.

Real hams don't use transistors. Ham parts should weigh something and
heft nicely in your hand.

Real hams don't use automatic keyers, especially iambic. Real hams use
mechanical sending devices, like bugs. Bugs take skill to do dits and
dahs right.

Real hams don't use equipment they didn't design and build themselves.
They don't build kits either. Real hams are supposed to be
experimenting, pushing the envelope, leaders in design.

Real hams don't use equipment made in other countries. If Johnson,
Collins and National aren't good enough for you, you have a problem.

Real hams don't use equipment made with LSI and surface mount, because
then you can't repair it yourself. Real hams repair their own
equipment.

Real hams don't use keyboards, they use keys and paddles and automatic
keyers. Keys and paddles take skill.

Real hams don't use logging computers. Keeping a paper log and dupe
sheet is a skill that separates the men from the boys.

Real hams don't use packet in a DX contest. Real hams find their own
multipliers.

                 ----------

History has not been kind to the pronouncers of "Real hams don't XXX."
You'd think we would learn. Silly thread on packet.

If you DON'T want to use it, fine. If you DO want to use it, fine.
Just don't use it and put yourself in a rules class that doesn't.

And lay off trying to put down everyone that doesn't like it the same
way you do, lay off trying to change the rules to FORCE everyone else
to do it the way you do. You just make people mad. And history shows
you SURELY are NOT going to win.

There is plenty of room for ALL of us. Real hams make room for other
hams.

73


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