I like to test cast and do static distribution. I have never found a way to keep the guides from sliding around on the rod until now. First i masking tape the feet of the guide so they dont scratch the blank. I then use a plastic wire ties, I start the tie about 4or 5 inches above the area i want it to be in then snug it down. take the foot of the guide and slide it under the tie the move the tie and guide to the area y ou want . As you move the tie and guide down they will tighten ..just tested a surf rod this way with the addition a 1/4 piece of masking tapr around the exposed portion of the foot it worked great.

be carful with the wire. I bought a rod were they used wire to hold the feet in place while securing the eye's and then finished right over the wire. The rod broke the first time I cast it right were it was wired. Was flexing rod to see what happened , and it broke again at the next eye. This was a M/H bait caster. It appeared the wire ectched the blank creating weak spots. May not be as stout as surf rod. But if it does create the same problems in the future. could cost a lot replacing blanks

I do what you do - only with rubber bands, safer on the blank.

I use tiny rubber bands to hold my guides in place while setting up.testing/wrapping. You can buy very small tubing in various diameters at any model/hobby shop for a very low price. You can use a single edge razor blade and cutting board to snip off a years worth in no time. They work great! Just put as many as you need (with a few extras just in case) on the blank before you put the tip on. Just slip the guide foot under and you're ready to go. When you get the thread up close to the band, just nick with a razor and they fly off. Quick, easy, adjustable and CHEAP!!!!!


Mike

Bill and Mike My problem is that I have trouble test casting with the rubber band system. Am I missing something? Thanks in your interest. Bill

Maybe more then one band on each guide, may hold it better?
I cut regular kids rubber bands in half and ty them on, then slip them dow from about 3-4 inches up.

you might want to try the rubberbands they use on braces for kids teeth

The bands that I make from tubing are strong and very small ID. (they are available in various ID's) I use several different sizes so my guides are held on good and cut up about a years worth at once. If you use 2 bands for casting, just touch one with a razor blade and it will pop off and you will have one left to hold guide for wrapping.

It is by far the easiest (and cheapest) method that I know off. Much easier than masking tape. I just slide them (with a few extras) onto the blank before I put the tip on and I'm ready to go.

Mike