In Fuji’s article “Theory of the New Guide Concept,” as they explain K-series guide layouts, they state: “….smaller rings [in the tip section] actually improve line flow and result in longer casting distance,….” Reviewing the guide catalog, ring sizes for K-series running guides range down to 4mm; however, the smallest ring size for a tip is 6mm. Why doesn’t Fuji make a tip with a 4mm ring? Seems like all rings on the tip section should be the same size so line flow is totally controlled as it exits the tip.

Look for the BMCAT or BMCOT. There are limits to the tube diameters, but these top and their polished steel cousins are available in 4mm rings. In addition, there are many options available for 4mm tip tops, Kigan makes the nicest tip top available in my opinion, and the options from Alps and Amtak that I've used are very nice as well.

Another thing to be wary of, is when using mono say 14lb. or so, as the line makes the turn when it exits the tip top it will push the line up, and may cause it to press into the blank on spiral wrapped rods or spinning rods. In this situation, a 6mm will take care of the issue.

Another thing to note is that tip tops usually sit closer to the blank than the running guides with the ring at an angle. Often times a tip top a mm or so larger will present a similar cross section and height to the line as a slightly smaller running guide.

In the end, it's not really something to fuss about. If it really bothers you, you can always finish the rod with a running guide wrapped on for the tip top.

X10 on Joes comments.
The tip does not have to be a size 4 to look nice and be very functional.

Often a size 6 will do a better job for you on a particular rod.

Remember, if the user of the rod happens to fish water where there is a lot of junk on the rod, like moss, alge, or cotton wood fluff - the "stuff" is going to gather on the line and will be rubbed off when it hits the tip.

Too small a tip can make the rod not usable in these conditions.

Remember, if the user of the rod happens to fish water where there is a lot of junk on the rod, like moss, alge, or cotton wood fluff - the "stuff" is going to gather on the line and will be rubbed off when it hits the tip.

Too small a tip can make the rod not usable in these conditions.

Hi Phil,
Check the DBlue link on the left and talk to Lily. They get 4,5 and 6 tips in titanium frame with SiC rings and have tube diameters larger than anybody. Up to 2.4mm in 4 and 5 and 3.0mm in size 6. I just ordered another 30.

ESFNEM Col
Port Kembla, NSW
Australia

Phil, the question is best asked of Fuji.....Anglers Resource a sponsor on the left.

Check out this link: [anglersresource.net]

We introduced a complete lineup of micro tops last year. Page 36 and 37 of the catalog show the FC top with frame legs secured on the bottom for casting rods and the LG top with legs secured on top for spinning. Both are available in Polished Stainless, Titanium, Black and Gunsmoke in SiC and ALCONITE®. They are available in 4.5 ring sizes with tube sizes from 1.6mm(4.1) to 2.6mm(6.5). We are considering adding a 7.0 and 7.5 but find that those sizes are mostly broken tip repair jobs. We would be interested in your feedback on how often these sizes are needed in new rod construction.

Thanks everyone for your input. I have two concerns: 1. the idea of line flow through micros - not having a larger tip ring than the running guide rings, and 2. aesthetics - the people buying expensive custom rods expect the builder to be current on technology and engineering design. On the current project I'm committed to 6mm running guides and 6mm tip (5.5). My thoughts are for the next rod - I'm new to the Fuji K theory and would lime to try micros on a 9-10" spinning rod, something in a medium action.

K Theory is the New Guide Concept. Updated New Guide Concept for micro rods is KR CONCEPT. KR CONCEPT guides are high-frame, small-ring guides with the sloped K-Series features. KL-H, KB and KT guides are used in the KR CONCEPT. New KL-M's and KL-L's are coming to "fill in the blanks" and increase versatility on certain KR CONCEPT reduction trains. We will post heights and availabiltiy shortly, as well as inclusion on GPS and some "General Build" Placement Charts.