Not sure why the quad was moving around after take off but maybe try a calibration in the assistant software? check all the connections again too as you say the gps cable was not seated correctly. Can you tell me where you purchased the lens hood?
I hand catch every time, and only ever landed it once i think in 60+ flights. No worries on accidental tipovers or worst still damage to the gimball.
Its up to you if you use the prop guards or not, i used them for a couple of flights when i had the fc40 and after removing them i noticed how more agile the craft was especially in the wind, some say they can also contribute to vrs. Never fly too close to anything and you will be fine.
Also had the wider longer landing legs on the fc40 but again were not needed as i hand catch, you will not be able to find a case either to fit with the legs on unless you build a custom one but then the case would be too large.