Mono used to be just like that but those days are long gone but I still trim with mono when I have it on hand. I'm still using up what people give me, I haven't bought any in years. I try to also avoid the debates, the vs thing. Use what works for you but if your new to covering then I would avoid the mono. I can usually make it work though but the key word is work. Work is a four letter word!
What your calling a big compound curve is really nothing and with the correct covering anyone should be able to do it.
I have no temp gauge for an iron and can't tell anyone what temps I run, I just test iron until I get it set where I like it.
The heal of the iron is also the hottest spot on the shoe so you can manipulate how you run the iron. If you like Ultra you would love the TEX coverings. It's even easier to work with. Now give the Chinakote from HK a try. Way less money too!!