I've got a 7 ft. spinning rod that I would like to add a ferrule to, how do I go about determining the right size ferrule. The metal ferrules I've seen are measured in millimeters. The diameter measures .281 with a micrometer at the point where I'd like to add the ferrule. Conversion of .281 is approximately 7mm. How much larger should the ferrule be in order to fit properly. Where do I go from here? I'm sure some of you pro's can help this novice. Thanks !

If you are really wanting the best ferrule, dump the metal types and make your own from fiberglass oversleeve. There is an older article in a RodMaker issue that spells out how to do this, step by step.

If you decide to stick with a heavy metal type, then you don't need it to be oversized. Just figure the diameter on the butt section that has to be accomodated and order that ferrule size. It will be the first number, in 64ths, of the ferrule size listing.

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Metal ferrule are in 1/64" so your .281 is a 18/64 ferrule. Depending where you cut you may want to buy a 17/18 or a 18/19 ferrule. (do to the taper of the rod)
As most common ferrules available in nickel plated brass are stepped ferrules, that is what your are looking at.

In the realm of bamboo, the ferrules are usually the same size for both, so you would order a size 18 ferrule or 17.. but you are not looking for that type ferrule I don't beleive.

If you have trouble finding the right one, email me privately and I can help you out.
mrparramoure@yahoo.com

Tight lines ~