As for the spin, here is something I wrote on the Mystere forum...

I've wanted to add a spin to my Mystere 5.0XL for a long time (so I can be grandfathered into F16 ). I want a modern cut, mid-pole snuffed rig, and I want it really, really cheap (read "used"). I wrote to every cat forum and emailed guys from South Africa, Singapore, Australia and Sweden. I got lots of advice, offers on older big-bellies, several too big rigs, several too small, and then more advice... no luck. None of the F16 people are ready to part with spins or hoops. F18 spins are too big for me solo.

Here's the best deal I've found. AHPC will sell a new spin for about $825 AUS and the hoop and sock for $350 or so (up from $260 last year so don't wait!). HOWEVER, the exchange rate is about 75 US cents buying an AUS dollar...do the math. Pretty cheap for new stuff and great designs. Shipping on the pole is HUGE so use a cheap Sunfish spar (find a broken one) for the pole and cut it any length you like. The hoop will fit perfectly. All of this fits in a small box so shipping from OZ is pretty cheap as well.

I've been picking up blocks from EBay cheap for over a year. How about a pair of new Carbo Ratchomatic for $25! I also bought a couple of Ronstan Smarts for $10 each. (Chant along with me..."EEE, Bay! EEE, Bay! EEE Bay!)

OK, now I need less than a $1000 to spin it up. The wifely unit pauses, thinks and says (again)..."Are you NUTS?"

Santa, oh SANTA!!! I been good...really!