When a rod flexes it forms a curve, but the line does not curve it stay's straight! So how much of an angle is acceptable when doing a stress test, if you put on enough guides you can make the line follow the curve of the rod, but some times that really adds I think IMO to many guides. As long as you don't pinch the rod bend you can get by with less guides, right or wrong?


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Joe,
This is very subjective.
However, perhaps a better thing to ask is how far from the blank is the line?

i.e. on a stiff semi non flexing portion of the blank - very few guides are needed.
However, on a blank with a soft very fast tip, you might need a guide every 3-4 inches.

Generally speaking, the fewest number of guides that you can put on a rod, and still keep the blank loaded - i.e. enough guides to have the line follow the blank - the better off you are.

Many folks use a general rule of thumb of the number of guides equal the length of rod in feet plus 1.
i.e. a 6 foot rod would use 7 guides. A 7 foot rod would use 8 guides. etc.

But, if you have a fairly stiff rod with a stiff tip, then you might likely use the equation of the number of guides equal the length of the rod in feet. or even the number of guides equal the length of the rod in feet minus 1.


Good luck
Roger

Joe-like Roger said -subjective to an extent. You didn't mention if you are talking about a casting or spinning rod, wrap style, guide size, or rod action...all of which will have a bearing on the number used. He mentioned the "length +1" method...that's a good place to start. Some testing then is in order. Proper blank loading is the greatest concern. With that in mind-when you get to the point where you are thinking "this number looks pretty good...maybe one more" then add that one and build your rod. The testing process doesn't stop in the backyard-if it is a rod blank you have never used the testing process will continue in fish-fighting situations.

With the exception of very heavy power surf rods, if you'll use the same number of guides as the rod length in feet, plus one more, plus a tiptop, you'll have enough to provide more than adequate stress distribution. Provided, of course, that you do a decent job of spacing them.

If you happen to use one less or one more than what I mentioned above, you'll still be okay. Anywhere along these lines is a good place to start and you can be satisfied in knowing that you're at least using enough. Whether you choose to risk using less, or don't mind the weight penalty of using many more, is up to you.

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