An unusual QSL card from EA1VB (Primitivo), 17m CW

Back in March 1992, I had a really cool CW QSO with EA1VB (Op. Primitivo) over in Spain. The chat itself was fun, but what really stuck with me was the unusual and unique QSL card I got a few months later via the RSGB bureau.

Upon opening the envelope, I was surprised to find a hand-written QSL card from Primitivo. It wasn't the usual printed card most hams use. Instead, it was crafted on sturdy cardstock, with all the QSO details meticulously penned by hand onto what seemed to be a cut-out 'QSO details' template stuck onto the card. What made it even more special were the actual Spanish postage stamps affixed to the card - something I'd never seen before.

This experience highlighted the varied and often personal nature of QSL cards in our hobby. While many operators and clubs opt for professionally printed cards, others choose to create something more individual and memorable.

QSL cards, serving as physical confirmations of radio contacts, come in a wide array of forms, including:

1. Standard printed cards: These often feature the operator's callsign, location, and perhaps an image of their station or local landmarks.
2. Photo cards: Some hams use actual photographs of themselves, their shacks, or antennas.
3. Artistic cards: These can range from hand-drawn illustrations to computer-generated designs, often reflecting the operator's interests or local culture.
4. Contest or DXpedition cards: Often more utilitarian, designed for quick filling out during high-volume operations.
5. Electronic cards: With the advent of systems like Logbook of The World (LoTW), many operators now confirm contacts electronically.
6. Awards-specific cards: Some operators have special cards for contacts that contribute to particular awards.
7. Homebrew cards: Like the one from EA1VB, these are personally crafted by the operator, ranging from simple handwritten notes to elaborate designs.

Exchanging QSL cards has been a long-standing tradition in the world of amateur radio. These cards not only confirm our radio contacts but also serve as physical reminders of the contacts we make over great distances (or closer to home in many cases).. They often become cherished items in a ham's collection and can even be used to apply for different operating awards.

Primitivo's one-of-a-kind, handmade card is a special and unique keepsake that reminds me of the personal bonds we form through this amazing hobby.

Radio:  Kenwood TS-140

Antenna:  Doublet

Power:  50w

Location:  Wellington, Telford