Willie,
I got a NIB 16lb Spike HPT a few years back and I kept it in box finish. Not exactly sure, but I believe it was in the 600-800 range. Heavy particle load, I never heard of anyone having sucess polishing the ball. Mine was a very large flaring (6"+) hook monster! Great heavy oiler, but after moving down to 15lb I got rid of it. Keep us Hammerheads informed on how it goes! Would hate to see the Faball forum go away...
Spike