[Elecraft] KX1 construction questions

[Paul Huff]

Hello everybody,

My KX1 has just arrived and I am hoping to have construction completed in time
for good-weather field operations.  Before I start building I would appreciate
any and all opinions on the following questions:

1.  Elecraft recommends an ESD-safe temperature controlled soldering station.  I
have a simple Radio Shack 25-watt soldering iron that I have successfully used
for all of my previous kits, including a TenTec Tkit 1320, Wilderness Radio
SST40, and an Elecraft K1.  Have any of you built the KX1 with a similar iron or
is the upgrade really needed?

2.  Elecraft also recommends flush-cutting diagonal cutters.  I currently have a
pair of miniature cutters.  They are not flush-cutting, but they can probably
get within 1/16”.  Are the spacing tolerances that crucial?

3.  I have never used a conductive wrist strap on my other projects and have
done fine.  Do I really need to wear one for the KX1?

4.  If any of the above tools are really needed, do you have suggestions on
economical sources for purchasing them?

Thanks in advance for your input.

73
Paul – N8XMS