Brewed: 4/16/2012
Dry hopped: 4/23/2012
Bottled: 4/30/2012
This beer seems to be in its prime right now (5/19/2012). So far, at least. Very, very good. Thanks for the recipe.
I'm assuming this is an extract kit. Most of my extract beers have come out darker than they should have. Also, what temperature did you ferment at? That could possibly explain the "high alcohol" smell you're getting.
Pin locks are usually a little less expensive than ball locks. I THINK only ball locks have a pressure relief valve. I THINK all ball locks are smaller in diameter than pin locks (fits easier in fridges/chest freezers).