As some of you recall I had the pleasure of using two special event callsigns for all of 2017.
I used CF7GEM for FT/JT contacts and I used VB7150 for all others. I had to purchase the VB7150 call but CF7GEM was free. I purchased QSL cards for both callsigns, 400 for VB7150 & 200 for CF7GEM. Total outlay was CAD185.00. With the hopes of off setting some of the costs I asked for two green stamps for a QSL card. Postage to USA is CAD1.20 and balance was applied to outlay.
VB7150 Summary:
3411 contacts made
72 requests rcvd
CF7GEM Summary:
4316 contacts made
28 requests rcvd
8 requests were rcvd without postage included (all USA stns).
Total contacts made was 7,727
Total QSL requests was 100
My math would indicate that this is about 1.3% of contacts wishing cards.
Total exactly 100 requests times CAD0.80 covers CAD80 leaving CAD105.00 out of pocket.
I am not sure if electronic cards have had a major impact on QSL card exchanges or if just the fact of asking the requester to cover the postage drove the numbers down.
Would I do it again.
Yes I would purchase a special event callsign if available for a full year (unusual).
No I would not purchase special cards but would instead just offer electronic exchange.
Now contemplating if I should re-order more cards for VA7GEM or just go electronic with it as well.
Have fun with this one.
Barry
