Matt, I am sure you know what the nut is ....... but if the 1/4-28 will not run are you sure it is not metric ?.....Just asking because it is all i can think to ask......Also if the nut got stripped maybe the stud also got buggered up....is it possible to case the stud or bolt wit a fine thread die ?....Just thinking out loud here.
Depends on your project, But FD ultra reverse # 3,5,7, Will be a good start....I do use a lot of new spirals on portraits and really intricate stuff....you will learn quickly what works for you.....Scroll on !