Quick crossword No 173

I really enjoyed this. Some cracking surfaces and just the right amount of chew. Your various use of “bit” was suitably misleading and it wasn’t that gentle! 12d was certainly a scratcher for me. 23a read smartly, 4d was fun and 13d was sweet. Ta lots Mallimack.

Thanks for the puzzle - favourites were 20d and 22a. Finished it so would agree it must be on the easier side!

I don't normally venture into Quick territory but you have been very supportive so fair's fair. I'd agree with ALP, easier but not exactly gentle. Beaten by the nho 12d and the intersecting 18a where I couldn't recognise the def and was not sure what you were doing with the binary. 5d and 8d are my picks. Thanks. PM

Thanks Mallimack, much enjoyed. Definitely "friendly" in Mallimack terms, though a long way off a write-in! Faves include 21a, 24a, 2d, 4d22d, 5d. Spoilers ...