I would be interested in hearing peoples opinions on the minimum/maximum distance between guides on the running train. I understand that a static test is needed to verify.

I am building a 7'4" med/hvy spinning rod that will be using 8lb flouro. and KT5's for the running train.

Thank you, Tony

Go to the Angler's Resource site and use their software, the appropriate one of two there for the types of guides you're using. If you're doing a static test it doesn't matter what opinions others have. They don't know your blank.

Especially for a med/hvy power rod you should be using at least two KB's, I'd use three. Even though you plan to use 8 pound test line for which KT's would likely be OK, you might change your mind and go heavier, especially if you change to braid. You'll never feel the weight difference, IMO.

I am more curious as to why a med/heavy if you are only using 8lb line....

Depending on the concept you are using, I usually go no less than 4" and no more than 5" between the runners. THEN I do a static test and make adjustments from there. Again, this is only my starting point. Also consider that a rod with a medium or slow action can require closer spacing or an extra runner as compared to a extra fast action. If I'm wrong, somebody please correct me because I'm doing it wrong and don't know it.

Ken Brown 2 Wrote:
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> I am more curious as to why a med/heavy if you are
> only using 8lb line....

Myself also. I would think a light or maybe a medium light blank would be better for 8 lbs line. How are you going to use the finished rod?

Anthony,
Depending on the blank I have placed guides as far as 30 inches from each other and as close as 2 1/2 inches from each other. The blank will tell you what it needs.

You do speak "Blank talk" don't you. Load the blank and the appearance of the blank is the blank speaking to you.

Best wishes

my blanks just weep..lol.

I followed the guide layout as calculated on the Anglers Resource site. The recommendation was for four #5 guides after the choke guide, but they dont give distance measurements like they do for the reduction train. Four guides in the reduction train leaves what seems like excessive of distance between guides; hence my question on other peoples opinion/experience. I already have a fifth guide available and will probably add it to the running train. Again; I was just curious of other peoples experience/opinions.

As for why I am using 8lb on a med/hvy rod. The majority of my fishing is for smallmouth in rivers. I wanted a rod that will be able to throw up to 1/2oz for getting soft plastics deep quickly in current. In my experience lighter line weights allow the bait to get deeper quicker in current, and have less drag. I also like the fact that lighter line allows me to break off easier when snagged on the bottom. I have been fishing this type of setup for many years with no problems. I also have other med/lt. med, and med/hvy setups that all use 6lb and 8lb line on.

Thank you, Tony

Ok, that makes a bit more sense then. It just seemed odd to me to use a stouter rod with that light of line. I would think that you would lose a bit of sensitivity, but if you have been using this type of setup then ill take your word for it :)

Take a look at the 3 guide reduction train, 20 KLH, 10KLH, and the 5.5 M-no need for 4 reduction guides, IMO. I did a MH 7 foot rod for my son with a 2 guide reduction train and it works fine. If using the KLH guides make sure to use the KR software on the site.

The fourth guide is always the choke guide and I assume, in your case, it is a KB5. On your rod the choke will be about 23” in front of the stripper, with the stripper about 20” in front of the reel spool. I would add one additional runner, for a guide train of 9 guides total (I.e. KL20H, KL10H, KL5.5M, (2) KB5 and (4) KT5). I would place the first runner about 4” (10 cm) from the tip top and progressively space the remaining runners between it and the choke. The.choke can be moved in or out a little to get a nice progressive layout. Tape the guides in place and do a two line static test to fine tune the spacing. Go out and test cast to see how it performs . Not that difficult to do and you should get a very nice castings rod.
Norm

I'd use 3 KB's on that stout rod.

Anthony you have just been put on the correct path. Not nearly to heavy a rod for your intent. That's why we have drags on reels.

Thanks for the replies. I was originally going to use all KT's for the running train, based on the suggestions I have ordered some KB's.

Thank you, Tony