[Elecraft] k3s radio kit

[Don Wilhelm]

Kevin,

While the magnetized screwdrivers may be a bit of a help for the K3/K3S 
or KX3 build, I prefer to keep anything magnetized away from my 
workbench.  I do work with thru-hole components in the Elecraft legacy 
gear and have bits of cutoff leads "afloat" on my workbench most of the 
time.
Those leads are collected on any magnetic tool and become a PITA to 
remove before using the tool.

I have an old Weller soldering gun on the floor next to the workbench 
whose only purpose is to provide the AC field in the loop formed by its 
tip - that field is used to de-magnetize screwdrivers, pliers and any 
other tools used on the workbench.

One does not have to deal with clipped component leads in the assembly 
of the K3S or KX3, so your situation may be different than mine.  For 
me, no magnetic tools.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/5/2016 7:53 PM, Kevin wrote:
> Ditto, and here's another vote for hemostats.
>
> The first tool I acquired before building my K2 was a collection of 
> curved nose and straight 8" hemostats, smooth and serrated. I married 
> into a family full of doctors so the price was right and being 
> stainless steel won't ever rust. Second thing was three brand new high 
> quality magnetized #0, 1, and 2 Phillips screw drivers. They haven't 
> been used on anything other than Elecraft "stuff".
>
>