My last tip:

Norman Miller will always have your back.

Thanks for the great feedback all! With my first rod completed, I certainly learned a TON on that first build. When the weather recently warmed, I was able to get it outside and take some test casts and it performed beautifully. Fishability and design wise, I'd give it an A. Aesthetically, I'd have to give it a B-. Working with micro guides for the first try definitely gave me a few fits, but learned some things and got the practice moving forward. Going right into A sized thread was also a learning curve. When I used D sized for the hook keeper, it was much easier. Next build will probably use B sized thread for the guides and see how that goes.

Ryan, isn't it great when a plan comes together?

There's no law saying you have to coat all the guides with one mix. I frequently coat the reduction train and choke, let it dry, come back and recoat if needed before proceeding with the runners. I'm in no rush, and whatever is convenient for me is the right way.