Russell: I am convinced that guide makes and models have nothing to do with casting accuracy and precious little to do with casting distance, but I would quickly change my opinion if someone can offer evidence [AKA measurements] that some guides produce longer, more accurate casts. If anyone HAS physical proof that some guides are more accurate and longer casting don't be coy - prove it, or tell me where proof of "guide performance" can be found. You asked me to prove a negative. I can't prove a negative - something that doesn't happen. Nobody can.

Russell,
All very well said and I agree; touché. I doubt you are in the minority; quite the contrary.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Mark, I was pointing out that there seem to be more fresh water bass fisherman here.

I have always found it ironic that there is more diversity in saltwater fishing yet so few tackle choices compared to the resources spent on a largemouth bass. That poor guy must feel very hunted and persecuted:)

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

if you can cast one inch more than the other guy, you,re going to win the bass tournament..

I too use REC Recoils on rods I build for salt water use. Their NiTi snake guides are immune to corrosion and as light as any. One caution. If you use REC light snake Recoil guides take a Forhan wrap or two around each leg of the smaller running guides. The legs are so flexible they will back out from under your thread wraps if the rod is bumped parallel to its axis. I have proof.

Jim Ising last statement, "
100% Opinion Alert: A POINT Blank equipped with Titanium SiC or TORZITE® is a tool the likes of which you have never experienced before."

I agree with this statement 100 %. I have had to change the way I cast because of these rods and guides. None to little backcast is required, I can literally start at 12 ocklock and outcast my fishing partner by 30 yards on average, and he is using very high end well respected manufacturer's rods. The feel of the bait and structure is better than anything I have ever used as well. Jim in short these blanks are the real deal. I will echo Jims sentiment that this is 100 % my Opinion. I would also like to thank Norman for suggesting these blanks to me. Sorry to the OP for getting off topic of guides . Thank you all.

Keith Langford

This is not "proof" of anything but it links one logical thought with another.
[www.youtube.com]

And here is Fuji's perspective via their North American mouthpiece - who happens to agree with them.
[www.youtube.com]

Michael Danek Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Phil, here we go with another job opportunity.
> Measure it.
>
> One point Keith brought up is appearance. While
> it doesn't affect performance, appearance to me is
> important. I just cannot get past those old fat
> gray rings. They just shout "Cheap! Ugly!" I
> really like the appearance of some guides, usually
> those with thin rings, black or dark blue rings,
> shiny frames, either black or silver or something
> in between. But glossy. And well finished.
>
> The RV looks sort of cool. Like it. The Alps Ti
> double foot guides on my 8 wt fly rod- nice
> finish, well polished and finished, as in smooth
> welds, etc, look like jewelry on the rod.
>
> While appearance may be unimportant to some, to
> me, looking down the rod with ugly guides is not
> the way I like to spend my days.

So very true.

This is a great read as i'm in a similar position as the OP. Was researching a lot on this board on the benefits of when i should be using double foot guides vs single. And i've learned there's just so many factors and opinions :) In the end will take all this info and try it out and see what fits my style of fishing

To determine the weight of a guide you could ask the manufacturer or weigh it yourself. If you prefer to rely upon non-numerical "feelings" about guide weights you can save yourself the trouble.