i think when i finally buy a bluey it'll probably be a cni.. ive been hearing alot of complaints about lever..
as far as black anodized.. they do it at work here where I work but I might order some high temp header paint (automotive) and try a diy..(w/ etching primer 1st of course and alot of HD masking tape)
<edit> talk to your loca automotive paint guy- say you want to flat-black some alum..