[Elecraft] [KX1] Variation in driver transistors (e.g. 2SC2166)

[Chip Stratton]

Just wondering here. How much part to part variation do devices like this
display in their gain characteristics? If I had ten of these transistors, is
there a good chance I could identify one with significantly better gain
and/or power efficiency than the average? Would a simple measurement of hfe
identify such a part, or is it more complicated than that?

I've seen a Youtube video wherein a guy who sells 2SC2166 devices made by
Eleflow substitutes this for the Mitsubishi made part  and seems to get a
bit more power output out of a CB transmitter. Is this likely to represent a
gain of efficiency of the final amplifier, or is it just a part that is just
needs a lower bias to operate at its best?

Thanks,
Chip
AE5KA