For a 1000 sized reel, I typically use the Alps Y frame in a 20mm for the butt guide and a 10mm for the reduction guide, and place a 5mm single foot fly guide (either Batson Mini or Alps) where the choke guide normally goes. You can argue that because the ring size is larger it is no longer the choke guide, but it is the first low frame guide. If you consider the taller match guides, a 16mm match and 8mm match will have very similar heights to the 20 and 10 Ys respectively.

Unfortunately, I have no idea who to order from in Australia. I think the minis may be a little tough to come by in the US as well. I have no idea if Utmost ships internationally, but if they do and Batson has any on hand, they can get them to you.

Tom,

Let me know when you get around to a 5100. When I get around to building a new personal rod, I'll have to decide between that and the SJ720 MHX.

I second Joe's recommendations.

Joe,

Will do. I may have enough time that I can get to ordering one this week. I will tell you that I have something like 6-7 of the 720's. I think that it is a cheap replacement for my Shikari sj700's as well as the old 0 powered Loomis Spin Jigs.

I really like the Northfork's I've used thus far, they are just a bit in the more expensive range for a toss around panfish blank.

Tom

Joe,

Will do. I may have enough time that I can get to ordering one this week. I will tell you that I have something like 6-7 of the 720's. I think that it is a cheap replacement for my Shikari sj700's as well as the old 0 powered Loomis Spin Jigs.

I really like the Northfork's I've used thus far, they are just a bit in the more expensive range for a toss around panfish blank.

Tom

The sj720 is an excellent rod for trout, especially in scrubby territory. I am led to beleive that it was based on a G Loomis design. The HMSJ871 is a lot different. Casts further but has a a bit less feedback when casting. It is yet to catch afish (hasn't been on the water yet) but feels like it will be very stable with a fish on. It has a solid butt and a ridicularsly soft tip.
Thanks to everyone that helped with my decisions. I used Fuji TLSG 5s for running guides and ended up with a KLSG30 for the butt guide. They will hit a target 2m off the ground 20 metres away with a 2 gram plug. If I make another ultra light it will probably be a 7ft North Fork.
Thanks
Paul Braithwaite

Braith