Self spotting may not buy you a lot of Qs in ARRLDX if you are a W4, but you can bet it makes a big difference if you are semi-rare, like a VP9 or V31. I think the rule stinks, but since it is part of the game, I'll use it. Soliciting contacts via internet is VERY different than doing so on with your radio with a CQ. Bill V31XX/K4XS