of the two bikes described, one lever set has removable studs, and the other set's studs are fixed/welded in place. where do i get studs, solving the issue for at least the one build?

i've only been rebuilding classics for a few years. when i started, this is what i did -- replaced the levers with cane creek scr-5 aero models. i agree they are a lot more comfortable. but i've come to realize i lose something, too much of that vintage aesthetic. this is true even with using the gum hood version of the aero lever. it's a little weird, because, on the one hand, i hate anything on the bike not serving a useful purpose (extra brake cable sweeping up into the air), and on the other hand, i'm left feeling i've discarded the look and feel of originality.

i don't, however, feel any warm feelings for suicide levers.

about trimming the hood and leaving the stud ... i just thought this would look unfinished.

"no, it's fully baked." - ben, 'the graduate,' answering his dad after he told his parents he was marrying elaine without first asking her. i love that line. anyway, i kind of agree, but, then again, i like repurposing and streamlining these original levers to the bikes.

if i cut the stud, are the levers substandard, or were they substandard to begin?

i say, "great job." and thank you for taking the time to explain. i appreciate your work. there's just something about the auxiliary levers that rubs me the wrong way.