[CQ-Contest] Self spot in ARRL DX

[Pete Smith N4ZR]

The reason I almost always operate Assisted is that (for me - YMMV) the 
frustration of tuning up and down the band, entering call after call in 
my logger only to find that it's a dupe, generally outweighs "the thrill 
of finding that new multiplier" or as yet unworked station.

73, Pete N4ZR

On 2/2/2024 9:45 PM, john at kk9a.com wrote:
> Is that true Randy, most casual DXers are not seeing skimmer spots?  W3LPL
> automatically posts some of less common DX skimmer spots on the cluster but
> the rest of the skimmer spots go unnoticed?   If that is correct, then more
> stations should be self-spotting on RTTY and CW when allowed.  I have never
> self-spotted on RTTY or CW.
>
> The spotting network has existed since I believe the 80's and prior to that
> rarer DX stations were announced on 2m repeaters so tuning for DX stations
> has not been necessary for a long time. Of course it is much easier now to
> click and work, maybe so easy that some stations don't feel the need to
> regularly identify.  Without spotting we would all probably be making a lot
> less QSOs so the cluster is adding to everyone's fun, regardless of
> category.  Fortunately you can still operate unassisted (un-unlimited) in
> most major contests and have the thrill of finding that new multiplier or
> band opening however operating assisted (unlimited) can also be fun.
>
> John KK9A
>
>
>
>
>
> Randy Thompson k5zd wrote:
>
> The flaw in this argument is that many (most?) hams don't subscribe to RBN
> spots.  Self spotting on CW actually helps reach another layer or two of
> casual ops and DXers in a contest.  So arguing that using it on phone is
> just an analog for RBN is not quite true.
>
> Self spotting is another form of calling CQ using the Internet instead of
> radio.
>
> It does seem the hobby has evolved to the point where making a contact by
> any means is more fun/important than using tuning skills.  Disappointing,
> but it is what it is. On we go into the future.
>
> Randy K5ZD
>
>
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