Trust me on this tweak. Black patent adds a chalky, ashy flavor that messes with balance. You will have a more complex and interesting beer if you replace that .5 black patent with .5 special B. This will add some dark fruit hints. My personal opinion is to suggest using WLP002 which leaves a nice residual sweetness and some fruity notes. you’re hops look fine. Not what I use, but makes the same difference. This is a malt driven beer. A little wheat would increase head retention.
If the black patent is for color, replace it with de-husked Carafa III. This doesn’t add any acrid flavors. Just a little black patent can affect flavor a lot. You’ll have a much smoother and balanced stout without it.
Jay,
You are great. I will try that. I basically brew on my own. I have friends that are into half way, and they are great friends, but we don’t go into detail. I am always open to trying new things of they seem rational.