I made my own straight shaft, and I think it's very close to perfect.
I haven't been able to let anyone else use it to see how well this feels. I mean, it's really balanced.
I used a fiberglass rod, and I also used most of the hardware from the original "S"shaft. The cuff is from Whites, and was modified to fit between the mounting holes of the control box.
The handle was brought from a bicycle shop. they are sold in pairs. Each one has a slight bend to them, which makes them a "right-hand" and a "left-hand". I had straightened mine out, so that there was no difference, and I alos bent the tip to make it a little more aggressive. Now I can have my hand opened, and let the handle "hang" on my hand similar to the "S" shaft.
the rear most portion of the haft has a little loop for fastening a dog leash so I can let it go while in the water, and machine will stay close to me without pulling off the head phones.
I also used the original locking compression nut from the minalab shaft. It wasn't that hard to take off. You will need a sharp knife and a small hammer to tap it open. It is held together with glue.
All of the holes were drilled by hand, and I wish I had a drill press, as that would have made it really perfect.
Hope you enjoyed my small write up, and I also hope I have given you some ideas.
laterz