OK I need to ad a keel protector, my buddy has an original Hamby on his Stratos and Ranger, but the price of those DIY kits (Keel Shield, Keel Guard, Etc) is tempting.  

Any input is appreciated.

These are very easy to install.  I added a Keel Guard to my Nitro a few years ago.  Took about 10-15 mins.  Just follow the instructions. Make sure you put it where you want it so that the guard will protect the keel  the most.  I kinda put mine about a inch too far up. And make sure you do it on a warm day.  The awesome thing about them is that once there installed they can be used right away thanks to the 3M backing.  

I worked at a boat repair shop years ago. I wanted a keel protector too, but could not afford a hamby. In this shop we also sprayed rubber and epoxy bed liners. I came up with an idea one day to try it for a keel protector. I tapped off the area, sanded it good, covered the boat with plastic and sprayed 3 coats on, which is about 1/4 of an inch. It worked great, and after 11 years its still there. I am no longer in that business but I have sprayed over 100 others over the years, all that have stayed on great with no complaints. I used the epoxy style coating, just for the durability, I would also recomend you do the same if you like the idea.

I forgot to add, the kit to do a long bed truck cost about $100.00 in my area. This would be enough to do 2 boats, you might be able to split it with a buddy needing the same.