Just got my general upgrade and I'm starting to work some DX! Already have about 85 countries in my log after a few months of chasing spots. DXCC requires confirming on-air contacts with 100 countries, so I'm getting close to applying for my first DXCC.

My question is about confirmations - should I use LotW (Logbook of the World) exclusively or still bother with paper QSLs? I've been uploading everything to LotW but only getting about 30% confirmations. Some of the DX stations I really need don't seem active on LotW at all. What's your experience with electronic vs paper for DXCC credits?

Welcome to the DX world! LotW confirmations can happen within minutes after a QSO, just as if you had exchanged QSL cards, which is fantastic when it works. But you're right that not everyone uses it. I'd suggest a hybrid approach - use LotW for what you can get, then go after paper cards for the tougher ones.

LotW QSLs count towards ARRL awards like DXCC and are significantly cheaper than mailing cards. For my basic DXCC I ended up with about 80 LotW confirmations and 20 paper cards. The paper route gets expensive fast with international postage, but sometimes it's the only way to get that rare one you need.

Don't forget about eQSL too! CQ magazine accepts eQSL verifications for their DX Awards and WAZ. It won't help with ARRL DXCC, but if you're planning to chase multiple awards it's worth uploading there as well. Some DX ops are more active on eQSL than LotW.