An update on my flat-top jack-stand quest... since ultgar declined my review-for-stand payola offer
I proceeded with modifying mine.
I decided to go with the permanent mod since it was the easiest and most convenient to use, and if I really screwed up the stands are cheap.
Here is the stand with paint removed and support plate cut. I also cut some round bar stock to support the middle of the plate. Probably overkill, but...