Ryan, sounds like..

"When I really need extra distance, I strip the spilce right to the rod tip, then perform a Spey cast in which I dump the head in front of me, then (as long as I have a tight line) throw my backcast and let her fly on my forward cast. This waterload casts gives me extra distance with little effort (plus, I can cast upwards of 70-80' with out need for much room behind me)."

you're doing a "Perry Poke." One of the most effecient casts for pulling/positioning heavy heads for winter fishing. And, as you note, almost any spey cast can be done, and done well, with a one-hander rod.