I recently purchased a set of American Tackle "BBLG" guides. From what I've read, guide sizes are measured by the outside diameter of the insert ring (if there is one). The BBLG - 25 disappointingly measured a bit over 23mm at the outside of the FRAME, the ring O.D. was a scant 21mm. Smaller guides were proportionately off as well.

I'm guessing there is no "industry standard" with regard to dimensions. Can a dealer-Importer choose what size to label their products ? Is there any way to know what we are ordering from catalogs that do not list said dimensions ?

As you can probalby tell I'm relatively new at this rod building. It's a wonderful hobby but there is soooooo much to learn. Thanks to this web-site, the many knowledgeable people out there in forum-land and RodMaker magazine, I just might put together a few rods to be proud of.

Thank you,
Bob

Your guess was pretty good!

Same size guides listed in catalogs - difference is in the reference points used - no standards that are enforced.

[www.rodbuilding.org]

Neither is right or wrong just different - find the ones that fit you requirements.

The ring thickness also affects the size of the actual opening.

There is no universal standard for component sizing due mainly to the fact that we have no trade organization to set up such standards.

..................