I just want to make a final comment on this. Stopped by LBS this morning to discuss the guards. Turns out it was simply miscommunication and the guy wanted to drill the guard.
So before any reputations are affected, my faith is restored. They've always given me exceptional service and if you're the chap in the shop and you've read this & think it's you, I just want to thank you for all the excellent help you've given me through this progress.
I'm not going to name the shop due to my earlier, unfounded negativity.