Having built a few rods from rod kits I will now start building from components. I plan to build saltwater rods for 1) big red drum from the NC surf with mono 2) blues (up to 12 lbs), black drum to 8 lbs, and nuisance shark and ray that come by( mono or fireline) 3) inshore rod for flounder, speckled trout and smaller blues, black bass and sheepshead by boat (fireline). I think I have a general idea of the blanks I would like to use ( SUR 1569, 1508, 1083, 1386, XP843, XP904). The question I have to trying to decide on the style, material and number of feet of the guides, not to mention manufacturers. There are so many to choose from. I would like to use Alconite of similar. Can a rod have double feet for the stripper and such and then go to single for the runners? How do I know what size the runners should be realizing that smaller is prob less weight. Is titanium really worth the cost? Are most folks building with the new guide concept system? I have read many of the articles in rodbuilding.org but would like some personal "guidance". Thanks.

Jeff

Columbia, SC

Use the smallest guides that will pass your required line and connections, and hold up to the task at hand.

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Fishing the surf is what I do. I agree with Tom and will add I use single foot Hardloy as well as the more pricey guides when ever possible for mono as well as braid.

Titanium is the thing for saltwater

You can use any other Just wash well after every use

Bill - willierods.com

So is it reasonable to get trial sets of different inexpensive types and sizes to have in the shop simply for measuring, required line connections, numbering, and placement and then order the more expensive guides for the build? Is it always necessary to have the actual reel that will go on the blank or something similar, esp for guide concept system? My shop is in a different state from where I keep my fishing tackle so I cannot use my existing reels.

IF you are diligent and wash down your gear after saltwater trips, and especially if you use that salt killer spray they sell at places like West Marine, titanium guides are a huge waste of money. Even entry level Hardloy and Alum. Oxide guides are much better than they were 10 years ago, and completely reliable. I haven't had a single problem with the stainless frame guides I've been using for years. And yes, you can certainly use a double foot guide for a stripper and then switch to single foot spinning guides, I do that frequently. The weight increase isn't noticeable.