This seems like alot for. I have 8 taped on right now and when testin the line hits the blank. Looks like I may have to use 9. Has anyone used this blank before? I am using ALPS heavy duty stainless guides

I've done a 700M (or maybe an ML) and used 8.

As scott said above me, 8-9 is about right for that blank if doing a conventional style setup. If it seems like its needs the one extra, do it and dont look back. If doing a spiral 8 is about the maximum I'd use and can get away with 7 every once in a while.

Keep in mind that the blanks are the "same" model, but each blank will have its own unique properties although they may be so slight as to not be noticeable.

Works good for me with 8 guides. No line contact at all.
You may try spacing the guides a little differently.

Tom

8 Guides should be plenty.

I prefer a 10 ring tip on the 700H so the the frames on the 10 ring guides hold the line a little higher than an 8 ring.

Blair that was a good point. If you are using 9 guides I was assuming 8 rings. I generally use 10 on that blank and 8 works well with the 10 rings frame height. With the 8 rings usually that extra guide helps. On a blank that heavy the weight difference between an extra guide or not is negligible anyhow.

FWIW,

I have 8 running guides on the 700H. Going down to the 8 ring and an aftco roller top. They are AT BZBSU
20-16-12-10-10-8-8-8. That's all pretty useless if your useing different guides. I Wouldn't worry about extra guides on the blank if u like the layout. The blank seems more moderate or mod-fast to me. Well atleast the slowest "Fast " blank that i have. The tip is kinda soft. Curious if thats where ur guides are bunching up.

-JOHN

I use 8 + tip, using 9 will not hurt anything on that rod though. Probably one of the more popular blank series I build on

I also have a 700H used for offshore tuna fishing out of San Diego.
I have 8 guides plus the tip. Guides are Perfection.
Bill