Guide insert

[basser27]

The ceramic guide insert is “sticking up”more on one side of the guide than the other. Is this something to be concerned about? I wiggled the guide a bit and the insert doesn’t seem loose just seems uneven in the guide frame

[PhishLI]

21 minutes ago, basser27 said:

Is this something to be concerned about?

Not unless the line is rubbing on the metal frame or if the insert pops out. If it's a new rod, then exchange it if it irks you. Otherwise, don't think about it.

[bp_fowler]

As long as it’s not fraying your line and you can still cast straight I wouldn’t sweat it.  
 

If you’re still concerned I’ll tell my experience for what it’s it’s worth.  I had one pop out on me and get lost.  I bought a kit that had different sized inserts for $10 online and fixed it in 10 minutes. 

[basser27]

26 minutes ago, PhishLI said:

Not unless the line is rubbing on the metal frame or if the insert pops out. If it's a new rod, then exchange it if it irks you. Otherwise, don't think about it.

Yeah no rubbing on metal. I’ve had Thai rod for 5-6 years but was cleaning my guides with a qtip and noticed it. Thought maybe I did something to cause it

[Fishing_Rod]

Greetings All,

I noticed this on several of the Walmart OTX spinning rods. I purchased several of different lengths. During the pre-purchase inspection I noticed the offset line guide inserts. Since they all appeared consistent with the other similar units I rationalized it was not a significant finding. That was a couple of years ago and all of those fishing rods have provided good performance in managing a good deal of fish catching.

 

Recently I found some new OTX offerings in ultra lite action and shorter in length too. Those also have offset line guide inserts too. Since my personal experience has shown no factor or issues I was not reluctant to purchase. I did still perform a critical pre-purchase examination to assure everything looked in order.

 

As always your mileage may vary. If the insert is solidly inserted you may find it is a non-issue. Most retailers will honor an exchange without too much fuss. Good luck, and be well. Cheers!

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

If there’s no chips or sharp edges, just keep an eye on it. If/when it becomes an issue, you’ll need to replace the guide. 

[ironbjorn]

This is common on cheaper rods. Any of the guides can be crooked, sometimes all of them. They don't have masters building these things. More like 8 year olds being paid with a slice of bread. Never found it to be an issue. They're locked in, just crooked.