I'm considering single foot alconite spinning guides for the stripper and 2nd guide on a 10 wt fly rod. (#16, #12 BYAG) I've read through the archives and like the idea of less wraps, weight, better casting distance etc. but am concerned about durability. I'll be fishing in Florida for small tarpon, barracuda, shark, mackeral...and at home in the NW for salmon. If I use the locking wrap, do I need to worry about it? Thanks for any input.

Lyman Yee

The fish, fishing and casting won't harm it - the only question is whether or not it will stand up to any expected abuse. Single foot guides, particularly as you move up in size and height, are not as durable as their double footed cousins. They tend to snag on rod lockers, doors, etc. By all means, use a Forhan locking wrap.

I like the idea, but don't get to carried away on the "better casting distance" thing. A single foot guide will reduce weight, but only by a bit and then down low on the blank the effect won't be nearly as great as with those guides nearer the tip.

...........

Tom's right. The alconites are a concept type guide with the ring at a higher possition.
You should be able to find a lower all porpose guide I think the Forecast guides match and are lower in height.

Alconties offer a single foot transition guide BUNAG8 with wide flared legs that look good for coraling shooting line. I think the only application they would be good for is the guide after an alconite double foot BLNAG10 Stripper to save some weight