Originally Posted by fti
If it were me, I would book award tickets and then before they are issued (you usually have a few days), find the best deal you can on paid tickets to match the frequent flyer tickets. That way you are certain to be on the same flights.
Also keep in mind that some airlines will provide a refund or travel voucher if the price on your selected flights goes down after the purchase. So once your tickets are purchases, check the same itineraries (must be the same flights) every once in awhile. If it's lower, call the airline and kindly request a refund.