this easily might be the culprit. either way I'm probably just going to un-install and re-install my whole drivetrain just to try and narrow it down. I'll definitely flip the chain around to see if that's it. The half-link is definitely still stiff and loud though, i'll try and play with that with my chain tool to see if anything helps. The pin seems pretty long on it though. When i pushed it in to add it i got it even on both sides and it still seems like it's sticking out past the rest of the chain (width-wise) a little on both sides. It seems like the pin was designed to be that long, it just kind of weirded me out since KMC's instructions say it should be flush with the sides of chain when installed properly.

I don't know, I've had so few problems in my fixed gear building lifetime that this one is just really bugging me. I'm hoping flipping around is the easy fix and the half-link will just loosen with more riding. we'll see. thanks for the help sir