So, I did some research on getting a single speed 29er as a winter and trail (read: gravel trails/mild single track) use and there weren't very many options out there in my size (I'm 6'1, 35 inseam) or price range (sub $700). Now I'm thinking about two other options: a FGFS bike or some sort of burly conversion. I've looked at the Eighthinch butcher but it's out of my price range and the scrambler looks like it would be to tarck for trails. The affinity Cyclone also looks like what I'm going for but at $500 for frame and fork I'm sure I would go over budget quickly. I checked bikes direct and unless I'm missing something their fixed gears are better suited for smooth roads.

So do any of you guys have fg bikes that are geared more for trail/bombproofness or know of a good place to look?

It wouldnt be to hard to mod an older hardtail mountain bike. The only major thing to do would be to build yourself a 26" fixed wheel.

BD has the Deadeye in orange in your size for $339. Just gotta get a fixed rear wheel for it.

Steamrollers are common enough that you could probably nab a used frameset off craigslist or ebay for a decent price. Good tire clearance, pretty strong frame (double butted chromoly), scratch resistant paint (which is always good for a steel winter bike), etc.

+1

Also look at the Fantom CX Uno

https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/uno.htm

I'd look for an early seventies Schwinn Super Sport or Sports Tourer with straight gauge 4130 fillet brazed frame to convert. These are tough frames, came in both 24" and 26" frame sizes and had 27" wheels. I'm 6' tall with 35.5" leg length, and the 24" frame fits me perfectly. You can often pick up complete bikes for $200 or less on eBay and CL.

That looks like a really good starting point. I'm already envisioning it with a flip flop hub and a front disc brake!

I looked at the steamrollers and they don't look as thrashable as the other fgfs bikes. Are they more sturdy than they look?

https://cgi.ebay.com/Surly-Cross-Chec...#ht_622wt_1300

You could look for a Surly cross check thats been converted or find a frame and do it your self, probably a little better tire clearance and more thrashable than a steamroller

I've never ridden one or talked to anyone who has, but you can get into the Nashbar Single Speed 29er for ~$450 + shipping. Reviews seem pretty positive. I don't really understand the sizing but there's a variety of stuff.