[CQ-Contest] My experience applying for a 1X2 call, HELP!

[Ron Notarius W3WN]

Kent,
 
First off, welcome.
 
Secondly, may I kindly suggest that you take a look at the forums on the AE7Q web site (www.ae7q.com).  Dean's site has information that has been of great help to hams looking for particular calls, and the forums have (or used to have) participation from a lot of hams with "tips and techniques" that might be of help.

Third, the reality is, there are a relatively limited number of 1x2 calls that are available, and competition for them (when they do become available) can be fierce.  So trying for a call from another district may not be a panacea.
 
With that all in mind...
 
Since the current sequential call sign system was put in place in 1978, there are a great many "out of district" calls in the US today.  So while I don't think having a "not 6" call in California is a huge disadvantage, it will be a bit confusing for some hams who still haven't (or won't, but that's another story) adjust to reality.  The problem would be if someone is calling you, thinking you're a 7 or 5 or whatever, and points their beam the wrong way... or becomes unhappy when the 'catch' he made isn't the 'catch' he thought he'd make.
 
Since most hams look first for '6' calls when working CaQP, yes, I think that this would put you at a small disadvantage.  Same issue my friend N0VLR used to have in the Pa QSO Party... people would hear his zero and not work him, not realizing he was in PA.  There are steps that can be taken to alleviate the issue, but only you can determine if it's worth the aggravation (small though it is)
 
I'm sure that there are things neither of us are thinking of, as well.  And someone on this reflector will bring those up.  Always happens.
 
For now, keep trying for that '6' call.  The next time might just be your lucky day, who knows?
 
73, ron w3wn

On 05/13/15, Kent Olsen wrote:

Hi all

I am new to the group.

I have been applying for 1X2 calls for over a year. All the calls I have
applied for have been 6 calls (because I live in CA). I have lost in
competition every time.

I am considering changing my strategy. I may apply for calls from other
areas. I have some questions about using a different call area # from CA.

1. Does this put me at a disadvantage, or give me an advantage in a
contest? Why?
2. During the California QSO Party, does this put me at a disadvantage
while calling CQ CQP?
3. Is there something I am not thinking of??

Thanks

73

Kent

K6DKO
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