I've got two brief questions. Why is silk thread more common with bamboo rods and nylon with graphite? I'd like to achieve the same type of transparency on my guide wraps for a rod but was wondering if silk thread is better for this.

Two--Has anyone used the black chromed snake guides? Is the finish very durable or will it simply become scratched and dulled with use?

The 6/0 white gossamer silk is used for transparency. Personally, I like 2/0 silk for wrapping. "A" nylon is about a 1/0. I am not old enough to tell you when nylon replaced silk!

Also, black chrome is terrible in my opinion. Looks terrible with line wear. Tich guides are much better.

I used black chrome snakes on one rod. Within a year, the coating was wearing off, and after about 8 years of use the guides really look awful. Whatever that coating is, it isn't durable enough for actual fishing.

I have a rod that was not black crome, but rather blue. Its about a year and a half old. I would not say it looks terrible so much as it looks used. THe inside of the snake guide finish has worn off. I bet ti would be more noticalbe with black though.

Over all I like the look even after some wear.

Joe <*}(({{>>{