Hi, I am going to build a baitcast rod.

I checked Fuji recommendation is two bigger stripper guides, then all running guides of the same size.

eg. For 6.6ft rod: KW10, KW5.5, then 3 x KB4.5 and 4 x KT4.5.....so the running guides are all 4.5 size.

While I measure the guides of some of my baitcast rods, the running guides sizes decrease gradually.

eg. Maybe a 12, a 10, an 8, two 6, two 5.5, and finally two 5.....

Why and which is better ? I think the K guides is a newer concept which chock down by 2 or 3 guides then all smaller running guides are the same size?


Furthermore, the blank is rated 5~8kg but I am going to fish it for Barramundi (where 40lb and sometimes 60lb leader would be used). Should I use 5.5 or 6 size for the running? And the first two stripper guies maybe KW12 and KW8?

THanks

Alex,
As has been posted many times before.

Let the use and action of the rod determine the size of the guides.
Once the line is in control and running true down the rod, there is no reason to make the guides any smaller.

So, two guides to control the line and then have constant sized running guides of a size appropriate for the line and use of the rod is perfect.

But, to answer your question, for a heavy action rod running very heavy line for big fish, the use of a like like 5.5 or 6 or even larger if you like would work well for you. Remember, if you have terminal tackle, knots or swivels that need to to to the tip top and running guides for your style of fishing, the tip top and running guides need to accommodate those items.
On the other hand, if you are only running line with no knots through the tip top and running guides, they can certainly be smaller.

Be safe

For that heavy powered rod I would not use KT's at all. Either all 2 foot guides or at least KB's to the end. I hope some builders more experienced than I on heavy rods will chip in.

You really don't need more than two sizes on a casting rod and rarely more than perhaps three on a spinning rod. Many companies simply use every size available - it's pleasing to the eye but the line doesn't require it.

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

Which means a two guide reduction train works well on spin. I've not heard that advocated before, at least don't remember it. I've done it and found that the rods cast fine.

Tom Kirkman Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> You really don't need more than two sizes on a
> casting rod and rarely more than perhaps three on
> a spinning rod. Many companies simply use every
> size available - it's pleasing to the eye but the
> line doesn't require it.
>
> .............
Tom's advice is spot on. Custom rod building doesn't require trying to please the masses. You can make fishing rods the way that works and performs best. Most of the rods sold retail are not made correctly to perform the best as a combination of blank, guide sizes, spacing and reel seat and grip placement.