Amateur radio has always been a hobby for all ages, from curious teenagers building their first radio kit to retirees chatting across continents. However, as we age, we may find that some aspects of operating become more challenging than they used to be. Fortunately, modern technology and a few clever adaptations can make the hobby […]
Month: December 2025
Gratitude, Community, and Hope: A Heartfelt Thank You
Dear QRPer family, First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the outpouring of kindness following Hazel’s passing last week. Your comments, messages, stories, and virtual hugs brought such comfort to our family. Reading your words reminded me how this community extends far beyond radio—it’s a circle of genuine care. Thank you […]
Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money Available for Young Licensed Hams—Apply Today!
If you know a student who is a licensed amateur radio operator and is looking toward pursuing higher education, be sure to pass on this message: The 2026 ARRL Foundation Scholarship Program is accepting applications through December 30, 2025. (Image/ARRL) The ARRL is encouraging students to apply for more than 170 scholarships ranging from $500 […]
Ham Radio Holiday Gift Guide 2025 Part 5: DX Engineering Logo Apparel
We begin this edition of our gift guide with a few pertinent questions as the holiday season approaches: What do you get the ham in your life who doesn’t need a station upgrade? How about the significant other who’s always chilly but can never find a comfy top to wear? Know someone who could use […]
In Memory of Hazel
Friends, This has been a difficult week, and it’s taken me until now to share this with you. My sweet furry companion and POTA/SOTA dog, Hazel, passed away last Friday. If you want to know what happened, keep reading–and please forgive me in advance for this diversion from our normal content. I consider everyone here […]
Guide to December 2025 Ham Radio Contests—Year-End Wrap-Up Edition
OnAllBands is putting a bow on the ham radio year with our final contesting guide of 2025. It has been another banner trip around the sun (courtesy of Solar Cycle 25) for experienced enthusiasts who filled the airwaves with rapid-fire QSOs and beginners who discovered the adrenaline rush of making their first tentative contesting contacts […]
New Antenna, New Key, and New Friend: QRP POTA at William B. Umstead State Park
by Thomas (K4SWL) On Saturday, November 8, 2025, we had an afternoon planned with the family in the Raleigh area. But that morning, my wife and daughters had other plans, which meant I could sneak away for a little radio therapy. After dropping my daughter off at a meeting, I realized I was only about […]
It’s All in the Cards! QSL Cards from Azerbaijan
Here’s an excellent opportunity to add Azerbaijan to your list of DXing conquests for 2025. DL4XT as 4K/DL4XT is planning an HF operation from Azerbaijan Dec. 26-Jan. 3. You can try to reach DL4XT from this landlocked republic at the boundary of western Asia and eastern Europe on SSB, CW, and FT8. In addition to […]