https://fists.co.uk/news.html News items from the FISTS CW Club Eu/UK en-gb https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2021 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finish by 01 July 2026.  - Straight Key 24-Hour Sprint (15 June, FISTS CW Club) https://fists.co.uk/sks no later than 07 July.  - Straight Eight (08–15 June, FISTS CW Club) https://fists.co.uk/sk8 no later than 07 July.  - Ladder (June, FISTS CW Club) https://fists.co.uk/ladder no later than 07 July.  - Snakes & Ladders (June, EuCW) https://eucw.org/sl.html no later than 07 July.  - Top9 (June, ICWC) https://fists.co.uk/top9 no later than 09 July.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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. Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:06:28 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2021 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2020 The June 2026 Key Note newsletter from FISTS CW Club Europe https://fists.co.uk/members 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: o A 1kW CW dummy load - DL2AAA.  o CW Hotline - G5VZ.  o US Navy straight key restoration - M8WRW.  o CW Monitor & general amplifier - G3XIZ.  o Stand up for Morse Code! - G3ZOD.  ... and more besides!  Note: If you don't know your password:  - FISTS Americas members ONLY: you can reset it at https://fistsna.org/memresetpw.php   - FISTS Europe, East Asia, & Down Under members: please send an email using the 'Membership' address on the Contact Us https://fists.co.uk/contactus.html web page. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 21:59:13 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2020 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2019 Coming up are Ladder sessions (Sunday 28 June), FISTS Bug Key Week (Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July), and Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint (Wednesday 17 June).  When activities coincide, a QSO can count for each one. - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 28 June 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Bug Key Week 2026 https://fists.co.uk/bkw Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July UTC (inclusive): Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o If sending in a log, you must use semi-automatic or fully-automatic bug keys.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.   o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key [*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks Wednesday 15 July UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 19:00:11 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2019 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2018 Graham G3ZOD writes: UK amateurs, the annual RSGB 6m CW contest https://fists.co.uk/rsgb6cw is Sunday 28 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 series. Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:51:04 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2018 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2017 Due to problems with the Mechanical Key Week, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint and Mechanical Medley results, there is now a revised FISTS CW Club June 2026 BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2606 in the Members' Area. Sun, 21 Jun 2026 22:25:59 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2017 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2016 The FISTS CW Club June 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2606 is now available in the Members' Area.  This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Mechanical Key Week, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.  Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:20:56 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2016 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2015 Coming up are FISTS Straight Eight (Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June), Ladder sessions (Sunday 14 June), and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Monday 15 June).  When activities coincide, a QSO can count for each one.  - Straight Eight 2026 https://fists.co.uk/sk8 Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June UTC (inclusive):  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members using your straight ("up & down") keys or sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is suggested: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.  o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 14 June 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/sks Monday 15 June UTC:  Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys and sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  Sat, 06 Jun 2026 08:43:30 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2015 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2014 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finish by 01 June 2026.  - QRS Week - https://eucw.org/euqrs.html (27 April – 01 May, EuCW) no later than 31 May.  - Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint - https://fists.co.uk/mks (15 May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 June.  - Mechanical Key Week https://fists.co.uk/mkw (11–18 May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 June.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder (May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 June.  - Snakes & Ladders https://eucw.org/sl.html (May, EuCW) no later than 07 June.  - Top9 https://fists.co.uk/top9 (01–31 May, ICWC) no later than 09 June.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month. o 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.  Sat, 30 May 2026 15:08:12 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2014 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2013 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 24 May), Straight Eight (Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June), and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Monday 15 June).  QSOs on 15 June can count for both the 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint and Straight Eight; for best points in Straight Eight, do exchange member numbers if available. Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 24 May 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Straight Eight 2026 https://fists.co.uk/sk8 Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June UTC (inclusive): Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members using your straight ("up & down") keys or sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is suggested: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.  o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  - Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/sks Monday 15 June UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys and sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  Sat, 23 May 2026 18:44:02 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2013 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2012 The FISTS CW Club May 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2605 is now available in the Members' Area.  This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.  Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Tue, 19 May 2026 21:31:25 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2012 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2011 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 10 May), Mechanical Key Week (Monday 11 - Monday 18 May), and 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint (Friday 15 May).  QSOs sent with a mechanical key on 15 May can count for both the 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint and Mechanical Key Week; for best points in the 'Week activity, do exchange member numbers if available. - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 10 May 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Mechanical Key Week 2026 https://fists.co.uk/mkw Monday 11 - Monday 18 May UTC (inclusive):  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o If sending in a log, you must one of the key types listed below.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partner uses.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.  o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/mks Friday 15 May UTC:  Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys, sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys, semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots. Fri, 08 May 2026 14:02:33 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2011 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2010 Graham G3ZOD writes: The RSGB 4m (70 MHz) VHF CW Contest 2026 https://fists.co.uk/rsgb4cw is Sunday 10 May 0900-1200 UTC.  The exchange is: RST, Serial Number (starting at 001) and a 6 character (e.g. IO92JL) locator and UK/CD stations send a 2-letter code from the RSGB postcode list https://fists.co.uk/rsgbpcl .  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 can count towards the FISTS Awards and on-air Activities. Mon, 04 May 2026 10:59:39 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2010 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2009 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 May 2026.  o Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks (15 April, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 May.  o Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder (April, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 May.  o Snakes & Ladders https://eucw.org/sl.html (April, EuCW) no later than 07 May.  o Top9 https://fists.co.uk/top9 (April, ICWC) no later than 09 May.  o QRS Week https://eucw.org/euqrs.html (27 April - 01 May, EuCW) no later than 31 May.  Notes:  - If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  - For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  - FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  - 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.  Fri, 01 May 2026 16:39:49 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2009 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2008 Please join in the EuCW QRS Week https://eucw.org/euqrs.html Monday 27 April - Friday 01 May (inclusive) UTC.  o Maximum speed is 14 wpm.  o Call 'CQ' or 'CQ QRS'.  o Minimum QSO duration is 5 minutes.  o Logs to be received no later than 31 May.  Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:39:30 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2008 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2007 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 26 April), Mechanical Key Week (Monday 11 - Monday 18 May), and 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint (Friday 15 May).  QSOs sent with a mechanical key on 15 May can count for both the 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint and Mechanical Key Week; for best points in the 'Week activity, do exchange member numbers if available.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 26 April 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Mechanical Key Week 2026 https://fists.co.uk/mkw Monday 11 - Monday 18 May UTC (inclusive): Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o If sending in a log, you must one of the key types listed below.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partner uses.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.  o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558 MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc.html is required.  - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/mks Friday 15 May UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys, sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys, semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc.html is required.  [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots. Fri, 24 Apr 2026 20:28:13 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2007 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2005 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 12 April) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (Wednesday 15 April).  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 12 April 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks Wednesday 15 April UTC:  Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc.html is required.  o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.  Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:52:30 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2005 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2004 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 April 2026.  - Straight Key 24-Hour Sprint (15 March, FISTS CW Club) https://fists.co.uk/sks no later than 07 April.  - Ladder (March, FISTS CW Club) https://fists.co.uk/ladder no later than 07 April.  - Snakes & Ladders (March, EuCW) https://eucw.org/sl.html no later than 07 April.  - Top9 (March, ICWC) https://fists.co.uk/top9 no later than 09 April.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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.  Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:25:43 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2004 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2003 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 22 March) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (Wednesday 15 April).  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 22 March 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks Wednesday 15 April UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.  Sat, 21 Mar 2026 10:20:36 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2003 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2002 The March 2026 Key Note newsletter https://fists.co.uk/members from FISTS CW Club Europe 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:   - Simple local remote operation - G3XIZ.  - Radio-my first encounter - G3YZZ.  - The tour d’Arles (3200km /p operation) Part two - DL2AAA.  - Amateur radio club thoughts - G0ILN.  - Paddles- and a bit of TLC - G4MLW.  - The Strawberry basket - M0BPT.    ... and more besides!    Note: If you don't know your password:      o FISTS Americas members ONLY: you can reset it at https://fistsna.org/memresetpw.php .      o FISTS Europe, East Asia, & Down Under members: please send an email using the 'Membership' address on the Contact Us web page https://fists.co.uk/contactus.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:21:02 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2002 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2001 The FISTS CW Club March 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2603 is now available in the Members' Area.  This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.  Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:22:52 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2001 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2000 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 08 March) and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Sunday 15 March).  o Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 08 March 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  - Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  - One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  - 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 of the following month.  o Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/sks Sunday 15 March UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys and sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  - No minimum exchange.  - Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  - One QSO per day with an operator.  - If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  - If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  - Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc.html is required. Fri, 06 Mar 2026 23:00:53 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news2000 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1999 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 March 2026.  - Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/mks (15 February, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 March.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder (February, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 March.  - Snakes & Ladders https://eucw.org/sl.html (February, EuCW) no later than 07 March.  - Top9 https://fists.co.uk/top9 (January, ICWC) no later than 09 February.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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.  Sun, 01 Mar 2026 20:12:16 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1999 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1998 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 22 February) and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Sunday 15 March).  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 22 February 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/sks Sunday 15 March UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys and sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later is required https://fists.co.uk/flc   Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:58:06 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1998 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1997 The FISTS CW Club February 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2602 is now available in the Members' Area.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, and its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:52:28 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1997 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1996 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 08 February) and 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint (Sunday 15 February).  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 08 February 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint Https://fists.co.uk/mks Sunday 15 February UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys, sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys, semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc is required.  o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.  Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:21:06 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1996 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1995 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 February 2026.  - Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks (15 January, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 February.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder (January, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07 February.  - Snakes & Ladders https://eucw.org/sl.html (January, EuCW) no later than 07 February.  - Top9 https://fists.co.uk/top9 (January, ICWC) no later than 09 February.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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.  Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:32:02 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1995 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1994 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 25 January) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (Sunday 15 February).  o Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder : Sunday 25 January 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  - Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  - One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  - 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 of the following month.  o Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/mks Sunday 15 February UTC:  Have CW QSOs with you using straight ("up & down") keys, sideswiper (aka "cootie") keys, semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  - No minimum exchange.  - Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  - One QSO per day with an operator.  - If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SK  - If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  SS  - If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  - If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  - Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https://fists.co.uk/flc.html is required. - [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.  Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:27:24 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1994 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1993 The mechanical key 24-Hour Sprints are back for 2026!  They will run on the 15th of each month and cycle around bug keys, any mechanical keys, and straight keys.  The first one is a Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks on Thursday 15 January UTC.  Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots. Additionally, the twelve 24-Hour Sprint scores will contribute to the Mechanical Medley https://fists.co.uk/mdly that will run throught the year, accumulating the scores from each of the monthly Sprints. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:59:24 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1993 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1992 The FISTS CW Club January 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2601 is now available in the Members' Area.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, and its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:46:17 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1992 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1991 Coming up are the first FISTS Ladder sessions (11 January) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (15 January) of the year.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 11 January 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https://fists.co.uk/bks Thursday 15 January UTC: Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic ("bug") mechanical keys only.  It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.  o No minimum exchange.  o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.  o One QSO per day with an operator.  o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  BUG  o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY  FAB  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp Fri, 09 Jan 2026 20:24:09 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1991 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1990 Happy New Year from all at FISTS CW CLub!  Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 January 2026.  - Ladder (December, FISTS CW Club https://fists.co.uk/ladder ) no later than 07 January.  - Snakes & Ladders (December, EuCW https://eucw.org/sl.html ) no later than 07 January.  - Top9 (December, ICWC, https://fists.co.uk/top9 ) no later than 09 January.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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.  Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:07:56 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1990 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1989 Coming up are the final 2025 FISTS Ladder sessions on Sunday 28 December at 14:00 and 18:00 UTC.  Thanks to everyone who has participated this year.  The Ladder starts afresh in January 2026.  Have a very Happy New Year from the team at FISTS CW Club!  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 28 December 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC: Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp Fri, 26 Dec 2025 21:45:46 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1989 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1988 The December 2025 Key Note https://fists.co.uk/members from FISTS CW Club Europe 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:  - Operating CW/MM from a yacht! - G4GMZ.  - REVIEW! Kanga Products QRP pocket transmatch - G4DBI.  - A cheap CW peak filter - G4XNG.  - Personal communication by wireless (1879-1922) - M0BPT.  - Not so much a unicorn, but… - G3VBS.  - The tour d’Arles (3200km /p operation) - DL2AAA.  - The Strawberry Basket - M0BPT.  ... and more besides!  Note: If you don't know your password:  o FISTS Americas members ONLY: you can reset it at https://fistsna.org/memresetpw.php   o FISTS Europe, East Asia, & Down Under members: please send an email using the 'Membership' address on the Contact Us web page https://fists.co.uk/contactus.html   Sat, 13 Dec 2025 22:42:30 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1988 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1987 The FISTS CW Club December 2025 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp2512 is now available in the Members' Area.  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, and its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Sat, 13 Dec 2025 20:53:28 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1987 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1986 Coming up are the penultimate 2025 FISTS Ladder sessions on Sunday 14 December at 14:00 and 18:00 UTC https://fists.co.uk/ladder .  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:30:00 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1986 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1985 Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 December 2025.  - Ladder (November, FISTS CW Club https://fists.co.uk/ladder ) no later than 07 December.  - Snakes & Ladders (November, EuCW https://eucw.org/sl.html ) no later than 07 December.  - Top9 (November, ICWC https://fists.co.uk/top9 ) no later than 09 December.  Notes:  o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.  o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.  o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp , available around mid-month.  o 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.  Sun, 30 Nov 2025 13:53:53 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1985 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1984 A small group of operators is trying to rediscover radio telegrams from ham to ham over the air.  Several small nets on 80m have already taken place: See https://eucw.org/net.html     The rationale behind it is that we all have experienced the feeling that the information we try to send in CW QSOs might not always find open ears.  It all starts with something like (cw text in UPPER CASE) this     HI JOHN NICE TO MEET U AGN    Too often we get a reply like this    GE ES TNX RST 599 5NN MY NAME IS JOHN JOHN JOHN    This is disappointing not because it happens every now and then, but because it happens quite often.  We could avoid this by switching to a fail-safe mode such as PACTOR, but we love CW too much to do this.  Therefore, a few of us have tried to establish a small net for telegrams (QTCs) where we make an effort to receive short messages reliably.  The telegrams we are exchanging are written in a unified format:    NR 1 R DA0AAA 2 HAMBURG NOV 17 = DB0BBB = HELLO WORLD = TOM +    The separation marks divide the message into    1) Header (1st message with 2 words from DA0AAA in Hamburg on Nov 17)  2) Recipient (must be a radio amateur)  3) Message (words are counted)   4) Signature (name, handle, or call sign).    It can be sent directly to the station when present or to someone else who can reach the addressee later.  If the immediate recipient confirms by QSL 1 all parties know that the transmission of the message was successful.  Most telegrams have more than two words, but few exceed 15 words.    We have tested this format on air, and we had lots of fun with it.  We learned fast that CW is indeed a great tool to pass on information reliably.    We would love others to join us.  Please find us on air every Wednesday at 20 UTC on 3554 kHz or use the EuCW contact form https://eucw.org/write.pdf to express your interest.  For more details please visit the URL above.    Martin, webmaster https://eucw.org/ Tue, 25 Nov 2025 23:53:02 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1984 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1983 The FISTS CW Club November 2025 monthly BrassPounder newsletter is now available https://fists.co.uk/bp2511 .  BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager, and its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club. Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:14:17 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1983 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1982 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions on Sunday 23 November at 14:00 and 18:00 UTC.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 23 November 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:48:55 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1982 https://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1981 Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions on Sunday 09 November at 14:00 and 18:00 UTC.  - Ladder https://fists.co.uk/ladder Sunday 09 November 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:  Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.  o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.  o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.  o 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.  o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.  Monthly and end-of-year results are published each month in the BrassPounder newsletter https://fists.co.uk/bp Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:14:13 GMT http://fists.co.uk/news.html#news1981