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News 2022

December 2022

  • 28 Dec 22: The monthly FISTS CW Club BrassPounder December 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder's focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.
     
  • 24 Dec 22: Happy Christmas from all at FISTS!  Please join us in the final 2022 FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 25 December 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 January.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 January.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 10 Dec 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 11 December 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 January.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 January.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 08 Dec 22: The December 2022 Key Note is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members as PDF and audio (.mp3) files.

    Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy:
    https://fists.co.uk/members

    Items in this issue include:
    • Jesse Bunnell: inventor of the sideswiper key - GW0WEE.
    • The accidental key collector - M7GRW.
    • DWS key and keying unit revisited - ON6RL.
    • LF and CW operation - G3XIZ.
    • The Morse code pronounced - G4AJY.
    • National rally Newark 2022 report - G5VZ.
    • The Strawberry Basket - M0BPT.

    ... and more besides!




    Note: If you have forgotten your password:
  • 01 Dec 22: Please send in your details, logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of November 2022. 
    Notes:
    * If you had Ladder, Snakes & Ladder or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge.
    * Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make changes, send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

November 2022

  • 18 Nov 22: Please join us in the FISTS Fall Sunday Sprint: Sunday 20 November 2100-2300 UTC.
    Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
    • Exchange a minimum of RST, member number (if available), US State -or- Canadian Province -or- DXCC number (for non US/Canadian stations).
    • One QSO per station on one of 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m.
    • Logs to be received no later than 14 days after the Sprint.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
     
  • 15 Nov 22: The monthly FISTS CW Club BrassPounder November 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder's focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.
     
  • 13 Nov 22: Please join us in the FISTS CW Club Straight Key Week Monday 14 November - Sunday 20 November UTC.

    The operating times are 1 hour periods starting at the following UTC times: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800, & 2100.  If you are sending in a log, you must use straight keys or sideswipers (no bug keys, keyers, keyboards etc.)
    Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028 and 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
        Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).

    FISTS Log Converter users: DON'T FORGET to add SKW to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field.

    QSOs are friendly and conversational.  Submitting logs is not essential but very much appreciated.  QSOs do not have to be with FISTS members.  Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.
  • 11 Nov 22: Please join us in the FISTS Fall Saturday Sprint, Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Fall Saturday Sprint Saturday 12 November 1600-1800 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of RST, member number (if available), US State -or- Canadian Province -or- DXCC number (for non US/Canadian stations).
      • One QSO per station on one of 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 14 days after the Sprint.
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 13 November 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 December.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 December.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 04 Nov 22: Graham G3ZOD writes:  The RSGB Marconi CW 2m Contest is this Weekend, 05 November 1400 UTC - 06 November 1400 UTC.  It is part of a Europe-wide contest and is the third out of three annual RSGB VHF CW contests (6m, 4m and 2m).

    Unlike HF contests, QSOs are a bit more relaxed and don't expect to get 599 for each QSO!  The exchange is RST, serial number and 6 character locator.  Most activity centres around 144.050, with the primary CW band plan segment 144.025 - 144.100 MHz.
  • 01 Nov 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of October 2022. 
    Notes:
    * If you had Ladder, Snakes & Ladder or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge.
    * Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make changes, send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

October 2022

  • 22 Oct 22: Please join us in the FISTS Autumn Party, Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • Autumn Party, Saturday 22 October 19:00-23:59 UTC.
      This is a meeting-up with no points involved. 
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 23 October 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 November.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 November.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 13 Oct 22: The monthly FISTS CW Club BrassPounder October 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder's focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.
     
  • 08 Oct 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 09 October 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 November.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 November.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 02 Oct 22:  ***FISTS Log Converter users MUST install version 4.2.3 or later to send in logs***   Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of September 2022. 
    Notes:
    * If you had Ladder, Snakes & Ladder or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge.
    * Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make changes, send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

September 2022

  • 24 Sep 22: The September 2022 Key Note is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members as PDF and audio (.mp3) files.

    Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy:
    https://fists.co.uk/members

    Items in this issue include:
    • Even more on key knobs - G3VBS.
    • The changing scene of radio - G3SCD.
    • Telegrams - GW0WEE.
    • Czechoslovakian RM31 key - G3YZZ.
    • The dyslexic Morse operator - M7NDB.
    • News on the Chadburn cup - G4YVM.

    ... and more besides!





    Note: If you have forgotten your password:
  • 24 Sep 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 25 September 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 October.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 October.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 13 Sep 22: IMPORTANT!!  FISTS Log Converter users need to upgrade to the new version, 4.2.3, which solves a problem that prevents all previous versions from uploading EuCW Snakes & Ladder logs and FISTS on-air awards & activities logs.

    The new version of the program is available from the download web page.  Many thanks to the testers: Alex PA1FOX, Chris G5VZ, and Richard G0ILN.

    Sorry for the inconvenience and short notice; the problem was caused by the company that hosts the www.fists.co.uk website making an unexpected configuration change on Monday 12 September.
  • 12 Sep 22: The monthly FISTS CW Club BrassPounder September 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder's focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.
     
  • 09 Sep 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 11 September 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 October.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 October.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 01 Sep 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of August 2022. 
    Notes:
    * If you had Sprint, Ladder, Snakes & Ladder or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge.
    * Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

August 2022

  • 24 Aug 22: Please send in your logs, comments and photos for the FISTS CW Club Summer Sprints: 
    • Summer Saturday Sprint no later than 28 August.
    • Summer Sunday Sprint no later than 05 September.

    Note: Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.
  • 20 Aug 22: Please join us in the FISTS Summer Sunday Sprint, Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Summer Sunday Sprint Sunday 21 August 21:00-23:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of RST, member number (if available), US State -or- Canadian Province -or- DXCC number (for non-US/Canadian stations).
      • One QSO per station on one of 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 14 days after the Sprint.
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 28 August 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 September.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 07 September.
    Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 13 Aug 22: The monthly FISTS CW Club BrassPounder August 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder's focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.
     
  • 12 Aug 22: Please join us in the FISTS Summer Sprint, Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Summer Sprint Saturday 13 August 1600-1800 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of RST, member number (if available), US State -or- Canadian Province -or- DXCC number (for non US/Canadian stations).
      • One QSO per station on one of 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m.
      • Logs to be received no later than 14 days after the Sprint.
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 14 August 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 02 Aug 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of July 2022.  Note! If you had Ladder or Snakes & Ladder QSOs, or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

July 2022

  • 23 Jul 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 24 July 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 11 Jul 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder July 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 08 Jul 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 10 July 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in the monthly BrassPounder newsletter.
  • 01 Jul 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by the end of June 2022.  Note! If you had Ladder or Snakes & Ladder QSOs, or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

June 2022

  • 25 Jun 22: Graham G3ZOD writes: UK amateurs, the annual RSGB 6m CW contest is Sunday 26 June, 0900-1200 UTC.

    The exchange is RST, serial number and 6 character locator, with most European CW activity between 50.080-50.100 MHz.  Unlike HF contests, though, don't expect to get 599 for each QSO!  This should be interesting with the added likelihood of sporadic E propagation.

    QSOs with FISTS CW Club members count towards FISTS Awards such as the Century and Millionaire.
  • 25 Jun 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in BrassPounder.
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 26 June 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in BrassPounder.
  • 15 Jun 22: The June 2022 Key Note is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members as PDF and audio (.mp3) files.

    Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy:
    https://fists.co.uk/members

    Items in this issue include:
    • A not so simple little part - G3VBS.
    • Helping newcomers - G5VZ.
    • REVIEW AsianRay key / USDX Transceiver - G0AYD.
    • CW Oscillator - G4GIM.
    • Bencher key modification - G4TQM.

    ... and more besides!





    Note: If you have forgotten your password:
  • 14 Jun 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder June 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 10 Jun 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge 01 May – 31 December 2022 (inclusive) 24x7 UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day. 
      • There is no particular exchange required.
      • Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in BrassPounder.
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 12 June 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members. 
      • Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST, & if applicable, member number.
      • Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.
      Monthly and end-of-year results are published in BrassPounder.
  • 06 Jun 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration no later than Monday 13 June 2022.

    All CW QSOs on 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m will count and you stand a chance of winning one of two commemorative plaques engraved with your callsign and name.



     
  • 02 Jun 22: The 3-day Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration FISTS CW Club on-air activity starts on Friday 03 June - please join in.

    CW contacts on 160, 80, 40, 20, 15, 10m.  Each contact must include the exchange of callsigns and, as a minimum, must also include signal reports, operators’ names, location of stations and – as applicable – each operator’s FISTS number.

    Scoring is 1 point for a station per band each day and there are bonuses for contacting FISTS members, UK stations with 2Q, GQ, & MQ prefixes and FISTS National club callsigns such as GX0IPX.
  • 01 Jun 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished on or by 31 May 2022.  Note! If you had Ladder or Snakes & Ladder QSOs, or any other CW QSOs, please send in a log for the 35th Anniversary Challenge. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

May 2022

  • 23 May 22: UK radio amateurs: if you would like to use a prefix of 2Q, GQ, or MQ with your callsign (i.e. a 'Q' RSL) during June 2022 in celebration of the Royal Platinum Jubilee Anniversary, you can apply for a Notice of Variation (NoV) on the RSGB website.  You'll need to know your Ofcom licence number to apply.

    If you're taking part in the FISTS Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration on-air activity (Friday 03 June - Sunday 05 June 2022 UTC), you can give bonus points if you use your 'Q' RSL and earn bonus points by contacting others using their 'Q' RSLs,
  • 21 May 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder, Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration and 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 22 May 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
    • FISTS Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration Friday 03 June - Sunday 05 June 2022 (inclusive) UTC.
      One point per QSO with bonus points for 'Q' RSLs, FISTS members and FISTS national club callsigns.  One callsign per band each day; 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, & 10m.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge Sunday 01 May – Saturday 31 December 2022 (inclusive) UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day.  Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m and there is no particular exchange required.
  • 14 May 22: Graham G3ZOD writes: The RSGB 4m (70 MHz) CW Contest 2022 is Sunday 15 May 0900-1200 UTC.

    The exchange is: RST, Serial Number (starting at 001) and a 6 character (e.g. IO92JL) locator and UK stations send the first 2 letters of their Postcode.

    This is one of three RSGB VHF CW contests (6m, 4m, & 2m).  These are more relaxed than HF contests and typically 'real' RSTs are exchanged, so have fun and listen carefully!  If you have QSOs with FISTS CW Club members, these count towards the FISTS Awards and on-air Activities.
  • 08 May 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder May 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 07 May 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder and FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 08 May 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge Sunday 01 May – Saturday 31 December 2022 (inclusive) UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day.  Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m and there is no particular exchange required.
  • 01 May 22: The new FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity has now started and runs until Saturday 31 December 2022.

    Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes from CW QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day.  Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m and there is no particular exchange required.

    Results will be published monthly in the BrassPounder newsletter.

    Please see the rules for full details and prizes.
  • 01 May 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished by 30 April 2022. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

April 2022

  • 22 Apr 22: Please join us in the FISTS Ladder, EuCW QRS Week and FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge on-air activity sessions:
    • FISTS Ladder Sunday 24 April 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
    • EuCW QRS Week Monday 25 April to Friday 29 April (inclusive) UTC.
      Maximum speed is 14 wpm.  Call 'CQ' or 'CQ QRS'.  See the full details on the EuCW website.
    • FISTS 35th Anniversary Challenge Sunday 01 May – Saturday 31 December 2022 (inclusive) UTC:
      Celebrates FISTS’ 35th anniversary.  Collect points from digits in callsign prefixes in QSOs with members and non-members up to a maximum of 35 points per day.  Bands are 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m & 2m and there is no particular exchange required.
  • 21 Apr 22: The latest version, 4.2.2, of the free FISTS Log Converter program for Windows is now available.

    This version adds support for the Royal Platinum Jubilee Weekend Celebration 2022 on-air activity in June and includes other improvements and bug fixes.

    FISTS Log Converter can be used in conjunction with almost all amateur radio logbook programs -or- for anyone not currently using one, it includes its own optional, easy-to-use logbook.

    The program is available from the download web page.  Many thanks to the testers: Alex PA1FOX, Chris G5VZ, and Richard G0ILN.
  • 19 Apr 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder April 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 09 Apr 22: Please join us in the 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 10 April 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 03 Apr 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished on 31 March 2022. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

March 2022

  • 31 Mar 22: The latest version, 4.2.1, of the free FISTS Log Converter program for Windows is now available.

    This version adds support for the 35th Anniversary Challenge 2022 (FISTS CW Club Europe) on-air activity that starts in May and includes improvements to the form used to apply for FISTS Awards.

    FISTS Log Converter can be used in conjunction with almost all amateur radio logbook programs -or- for anyone not currently using one, it includes its own optional, easy-to-use logbook.

    The program is available from the download web page.  Many thanks to the testers: Alex PA1FOX, Chris G5VZ, and Richard G0ILN.
  • 26 Mar 22: The March 2022 Key Note is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members.

    Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy:
    https://fists.co.uk/members

    Items in this issue include:
    • The Unicorn? my conclusion - G3VBS.
    • Extracts from handbooks - G3XIZ.
    • Distress calls - GW0WEE.
    • The Amateur spirit.
    • Pet Peeves (we all have them) - N1EA.
    • Essex CW ARS boot camp 2021 - G0IBN.

    ... and more besides!




    Notes:
    1. It may take longer than in previous years for members to receive a paper copy due to continuing postal delays within Royal Mail.
    2. If you have forgotten your password:
  • 24 Mar 22: Please join us in the 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 27 March 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 19 Mar 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder March 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 11 Mar 22: Please join us in the 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 13 March 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 03 Mar 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished on 28 February 2022. 
    Notes:
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.
  • 03 Mar 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder February 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     

February 2022

  • 13 Feb 22: Please join us in the 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 13 February 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 02 Feb 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished on 31 January 2022. 
    Notes:
    * For the 2022 FISTS Ladder and EuCW Snakes & Ladders, if you use FISTS Log Converter, please ensure you have installed version 4.2.0 or later.
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.

January 2022

  • 25 Jan 22: The FISTS CW Club Europe BrassPounder January 2022 newsletter written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, is now available.

    BrassPounder provides the results and discussions about on-air Activities provided by FISTS CW Club Europe.
     
  • 22 Jan 22: Please join us in the 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 23 January 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 08 Jan 22: Please join us in the new 2022 FISTS CW Club Ladder on-air activity sessions:
    • Ladder Sunday 09 January 14:00-16:00 & 18:00-20:00 UTC.
      Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz.  Exchange a minimum of:
          Name, QTH, RST, & member number (if applicable).
      QSOs can be with members & non-members anywhere and are friendly and conversational.
    Members anywhere in the world are invited to join in these activities and send in logs.  They are organised by FISTS CW Club Europe.
  • 04 Jan 22: Please send in your logs, comments, and photos for the following activities that finished on 31 December 2021. 
    Notes:
    * For the 2022 FISTS Ladder and EuCW Snakes & Ladders, if you use FISTS Log Converter, please ensure you have installed version 4.2.0 or later.
    * In all the activities, even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do send in logs because it encourages others to join in.
    * For the Ladder, please include in your log ALL your Ladder QSOs from the (up to) 4 sessions in the month.  If you need to make any changes, you can send in another log and it will replace the previous log you sent in.
  • 02 Jan 22: The latest version, 4.2.0, of the free FISTS Log Converter program for Windows is now available.

    This version adds the FISTS Europe Ladder 2022, EuCW Snakes & Ladders 2022 & EuCW QRS Week 2022 on-air activities.

    FISTS Log Converter can be used in conjunction with almost all amateur radio logbook programs -or- for anyone not currently using one, it includes its own optional, easy-to-use logbook.

    The program is available from the download web page.  Many thanks to the testers: Alex PA1FOX, Chris G5VZ, Peter G4LHI, and Richard G0ILN.

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