I am building a heavy saltwater spinning popping rod. It is 8 1/2 feet and will be fished with a
Stella 20K with up to 80 lb test. I will be using the 27X method of guide placement but need suggestions
of what style guides to use. Strength, cost, and weight are the chief factors. The blank is a butt joint and
airline travel is a definite concern. I have always just used the MNSG but want to know what others would
use in it's place. Thanks in advance for your replies. You guys are great as always.

MNSG are a solid choice. There is a lot to be said for a proven commodity. I think the virtus line in 316 SS is a reasonable compromise when you consider price difference. The nanolite rings seem close in performance and the ring lock features appears to be rugged. Expect to have to do a little more fitting/dressing. I have only used the lighter LXN Alps guides (and only on a fly rod) but the west coast tuna guys seem to like their guides (better then they like am tak it seems) so look at them as well.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

Russ

Those MNSG's will hold up on a tuna stick Spiral wrapped

Bill - willierods.com

Hi Mel
I have three 60-100lb popping rods 8-8'6' that I use for Kings and GTs. I have used Titanium K series on them all. Size 40,25,16, 12 and 5 x 10s with a 10 tip. The 100lb has a run of 12s to the tip. Perfect combination and super light for those long days with big poppers. Also, after all that hard work binding and finishing, I prefer to use titanium's as I know they wont corrode!! To me its worth the extra cost. especially considering I spent $300 on each blank.
Cheers
Chris

I have used both K series and MNSG. And found both are a great choice. personally the ICMNSG is a great choice. Extremely strong, lightweight and corrosion resistant.

I just used the Amtak Virtus Ring locks on a 8 1/2 plugging rod. Took a little guide prep and the guide feet on the size 16 near the tip end seemed a bit wide for the blank. This blank is a supposed PE 12 blank. Test casting today and wrapping up in the next few days. My guides at the tip end are size 16 because this rod will be primarily used with 400lb mono/fluorocarbon wind on leaders. The 400lb isn't my casting set up. It's my bait set up. But the rod will be used for casting too. My casting set up is using 80 and 100lb JB hollow main line with a Stella 18000 with an additional 20000 spool. Wind ons are 130 and 200lb.