(Still) attempting to set up guides on a 6' 10" RX7 ISB822.5 blank, and want to try out some 3mm running guides when they arrive. Using the concept setup, I'm at 20 - 10 - 5, 3's... with the choke guide (#5) 30.5" from the tip, and a #20byag butt guide 48.5" from tip. (An 18" span with one guide in the middle.)

I just wondered if this setup was in the ballpark to anyone who's set this blank up in a similar manner, I realize that the choke guide position varies d/t the reel used. Thanks, I appreciate any help/comments!

It sounds like it's in the ballpark.

Sight down through the butt guide to the choker guide - you should see something that resembles an archery target. Each ring perfectly and concentrically framed by the one preceeding it. If you see that, you're okay. If you see the rings sitting high or low, compared to the preceeding one, something is off.

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Thanks Tom, the rings do align great (archery target).

I've rarely had a problem positioning guides using the concept method, just thinking here about how to balance the weight-saving micros vs possibly adding an extra transition guide. I wondered if this would be a case, if an extra (third) transition guide was required, to pull the choke guide back into alignment with the (two) transition guides if need be, instead of the usual vice-versa. (I realize it would not become a true choke guide anymore in that case though.) Thanks again, appreciated, Mike

If you only have 18 inches between the butt and choker guide, then I think 1 transition guide would be enough. The lighter micro guides near the tip only make the balance better, shifting it back towards the handle.

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Mike,

Can you drop me an Email. I am building this same rod, and wanted to find out how it worked for you.

Thanks
Bert Nagy