I haven't had to bad of luck, except with swivels coming off I think it's cause I heat the end of the arm to make the bend and got it too hot. that would get expensive if they would to break though.
a starting point is willow leaf blades in clear water and colorado blades in murky or muddy water. If you want to know more about spinner bait fishing, Bass Pro has a really good video tape with Kevin Vandam in it.
I'm looking for pre-formed titanium wire. Jann's netcraft use to carry them. They are a little harder to work with, but boy they make great spinnerbaits.