RSTONE,
This was a baited question, I do feel it's ok,
to use spikes on a leader that's 40' long & you're removing
the entire leader. Otherwise, I don't approve of the use to prune.
To the client most don't know or see the difference.\
i.e. Many people feel you MUST have new equipment or the clients
will think you're a fly by night. (which was a great song by rush)
But I don't agree, as long as it looks good (equip) it's fine.