I've seen some posts suggesting using a tip top guide 1/2 size to 1 size larger ring. For example in my saltwater builds I will use size 8 running guides. Was planning to use a size 8 tip top. Would builders typically upsize to a size 10, more "case by case" depending on line, shooting head, etc., or otherwise not very common?

Why do this? You always want to use the smallest guides and top that will pass your line and required connections. If a #8 will do that, what advantages does a #10 offer?

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I built a saltwater rod in 1985 for jigging wrecks and reefs in Florida, having no real experience with what the rod should have I went with what I knew and what I wanted the rod to be, thinking if I was off the mark, I could always rebuild it when it failed, thing is it never failed, no matter what line/weight/ top shot combo I put through it or the size fish tied to the other end. My final Pac Bay TV guides and PT tip top are 10 mm, like Tom said no need to upsize anything. To be on the safe side it wouldn't hurt to use one of the more modern frame designs that wrap around the ceramic more than mine do.

I can see the point of using a larger tip top along with larger running guides, if there are conditions possible where something like that would help, like guides potentially icing up, or on the water debris clogging up the guides. But that kind of stuff affects the entire guide train, not just the tip top.

I'm with Tom ..... I don't see any scenario where just a larger tip top is going to be of benefit.

Perfect. Thank you. I had no argument for doing it other than saw a few posts where guys mentioned they do it. 100% understand Tom's logic but just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something.

Are you sure that the recommendation of 1/2 to 1 size larger was not referring to the tube…. than the ring…

I've often seen that recommedation to upsize the tip top r9ng size.

The usual justification is to make it easier for line to leader knot connections to "turn the corner" so to speak and get into the guide train when under load.

From that standpoint, the marginally flatter surface the knot is passing over could make it less likely to hang up with you've got a fish on or when using a high resistance lure.

From a casting standpoint, it has no benefit and is probably a net negative.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/19/2024 02:50PM by Patrick Coco.