Guide Spacing Formula

Determine the needed distance from the reel seat to the butt guide. Measure the distance from the tip to the butt guide. Choose one of the underlined factors for the type of rod you are building. Choose the number of guides you desire. Divide the distance from the tip to butt guide by the divisor that corresponds with the factor and number of guides you have chosen. The result of this calculation is the distance from the tip to the first guide. This number would normally be around 4 inches. Usually not less than 3' or more than 5". Some surf rods will use dimensions of more than 5", but that is usually the only exception. If the number is outside this range either change the factor being used, the number of guides, and, or the butt guide distance.

Once the proper distance from the tip to the first guide has been determined, multiply that dimension by the factor amount, the result of this is the distance to the second guide. Repeat this process again of multiplying the factor times the measurement of the previous guide. Continue until all of the guides are done. This may be easily done on a calculator that allows the use of a constant. Enter the factor as the constant, then times (X) the first guide dimension equals (=) , hit the (=) key the number of guides that you are using. Adding and subtotaling these results will give you the cumulative spacing from the tip to the butt guide.

Note:
This formula is only a starting point for proper guide spacing. The dimensions may work well for your rod, or may need to be adjusted to fit your particular blank.