First Build Problems

So for my first build I have already killed a PHR-803T 405nm diode and a LPC-826 650nm.
rckstr microdrive V3 driver
Blue M host
Two 10440 AAA Li-Ion 3.6V

First time it was what I think from overheating the diode and frying it. Turning it into an LED.
Second time I forgot to discharge the capacitor and instantly killed it. Turning that one into a nice purple LED.

Is there any other ways I could kill it and if so what are they so I can avoid them.

I did use a test load so it wouldn't be from overpowering them. That was when I forgot to discharge the capacitor right after testing the driver.

ESD will also kill diodes. So you always need to observe antistatic procedures when handling them.

Ok thanks. I probably should have sprung for an esd wrist strap. I would've paid an extra $10 instead of losing $25.

Have any tips on putting together a build to avoid major problems?

$10? For anti-static wrist straps? I got two off of eBay for $1.98 with shipping.

You don't really need any kind of special hardware to practice good anti-ESD. heh You just have to be conscious about it. The times it's happened to me was just from pure carelessness. I.E. not grounding myself before picking up a diode.

Ok other than the back of my computer what are some common grounding spots?

I don't have copper pipes in my house so I got a replacement three prong plug from Ace and attached a copper wire to the ground of the plug. I used a volt-meter to verify that the outlet ground was properly wired. I just plug in my "ground plug" and connect the clip from the wrist ground to the copper wire.

Nice set up that seems like a good idea