IL, as always, thanks for your input... it's a shame you don't post as much these days as when I first joined this board so many years ago as MQ1shooter...
So Trophy Ridge has gone to all-metal construction in its sights these days, huh? That's good to know; I tried one of their Matrix Guide Series last year, but the plastic just didn't sit well with me.
And I hadn't yet seen a price on the new wrapped Spot Hogg... $265!?! Wow. I just replace my fibers with Fitz fibers.. Guess I'll still be doing that.