Big Boy Phil,
The brakes were the Mini BMX and they are "V" brakes. They're noticably shorter than regular "V" brakes. The initial grab feels good on flat ground at low speed but the levers don't pull enough cable so, they bottomed out on the handlebar. I had them adjusted as close to the rims as possible too.

I installed Shimano cantilevers a few days ago but only had time to ride around the block a few times. So far they feel much better and no heel strike but I'll write back in few days to confirm.