[Elecraft] Hello & a question

[Ron D'Eau Claire]

There's certainly nothing wrong with an grounded anti-static mat and
wrist strap. An ounce of prevention and all of that... 

Still, I do not bother with one in my shop and don't have any trouble.
Being "careful" as you said works for me. I DO use a grounded-tip
soldering iron and I DO ground myself momentarily EVERY time before I
pick up a static-sensitive device. 

Since you mentioned building Heathkit gear, there is one very important
thing to do differently now. Back then, it was common to get a bit of
carpet to put on the bench to protect front panels, cabinets, etc. DON'T
use one with modern solid state gear!!!  Rubbing your hand or an
insulator over a bit of carpet can produce enough of a static charge to
fry a whole roomful of ICs! 

Ron AC7AC
K2 # 1289

-----Original Message-----
... While I wait for the rig, I am setting up the assembly area to build
the K2, and then I will be rebuilding tube radios from days gone by to
help pay for the next kit. The question I would like to know is, how
important is static control with solid state kits? Are static mats and
wrist straps a must or is just being careful adequate?  
Many thanks in advance.
sincerely,
Charles, KC9DAO
^