Understanding quality vs cost when selecting fishing rod guides
In choosing your perfect component you firstly need to understand what it is that you need and how much that particular part may cost as well as understanding what benefits you are gaining for the extra cost, is it worth the extra expense?
Using ALPS rod guides as an example you have a range being available from the lower cost range to the premium range and this is a choice you need to make with the finished fishing rod that you're attempting to achieve. The design of any rod component is the most important consideration and that is why only the best guide manufacturers are worth being considered, stick with the brands you know and choose from the range they offer.
Metals rust and corrode as the result of the metal breaking down when exposed to extreme environments. All metal eventually experiences this kind of breakdown. Some metals, however, are more resistant to them than others. This is the case of the titanium that is common today as well as the top graded 316 stainless steel.
Titanium is a popular metal that is recognised as more durable and stronger than steel, yet is lighter and more flexible than steel. These properties of titanium make it a popular metal used in chemical plants, airplanes, and various military and engineering applications. Titanium can withstand extreme temperature and exposure to salt water. It has been hailed as one of the strongest, most durable metals around however only if it is of a certain standard, this is why recognised brands should be your only consideration.
Know the characteristics of rod guides -
Titanium is a resilient metal that is also highly reactive. When titanium is exposed to certain environments such as those with chlorine, salt water and extreme temperatures, titanium oxide is created on the surface of the titanium. This titanium oxide can occur quickly and in doing so it provides a strong, durable, almost impenetrable barrier that protects the pure titanium metal underneath it from further corrosion. This is why inferior titanium guides can present the very problem you are trying to avoid.
Pure titanium is resistant to rusting and corrosion because of its oxide barrier.
Pure titanium that is completely rust and corrosive resistant, however, is rare and hard to find and produce. Many titanium parts and objects are made of a titanium alloy which includes the combination of various levels of titanium and other metals. Because they are not made of pure titanium, they are susceptible to rust and corrosion. Top brand Titanium guides are certainly more resistant to rust and corrosion than other metals and metal alloys with the titanium being used today has the benefits of not rusting or corroding and is more durable and longer-lasting than other metals.
In addition to ALPS titanium offerings the ALPS range of guides in SS316 stainless steel is identical in construction as the titanium but in a different substrate material. ALPS range of guides is ideal for both casting and spinning configurations and will make your rod out shine the competition. When it comes to the build of your rod, wrapping is made easier with the pre-ground foot. ALPS guides have been proven to be the go to component for all requirements in rod building including both heavy and light tackle, spin, overhead, baitcast as well as fly rods or as part of a concept style guide system.
From ultra-light spinning to ultimate power rods, ALPS guides manufactured using 316 grade stainless steel or titanium will make you feel assured. If you’re counting on strength and extreme corrosion resistance, this exclusive product is perfect for your next rod build. Featuring SS316 stainless steel frame substrate or Titanium, you can rely on the ALPS guides for fishing ability and it is strong to boot. The pre-ground feet make wrapping these guides a breeze. The premium zirconium rings make these guides light yet still strong. They are tumbled in custom media in smoothing over all the edges making the finish shine.