In the past, I have simply selected blank-through reel seats based on the blanks position at mid tube of said reel seat. then I would make handle adjustments (up or down the blank) as necessary. However, now I wonder if there might be a better choice. Should the measurement of the blank's diameter correspond with the rear of the seat tube, the middle of the seat tube, or its front? I really hope my question is clear to everyone, because I am unsure how to better express it. Thanks in advance!

From ghoulies and ghosties,
and long leggedy beasties,
and things that go bump in the night,
Good Lord deliver us!

I pick a reel seat that fits my hand and use arbors to make up the difference. Pretty much don't use anything smaller than a 17.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

Hunter are you referring to a blank exposed casting reelseat?

I get one a half size smaller than the blank measurement where I plan to install the seat, then ream the seat to fit the exact location. The perfect location of the reel seat is key to building a great custom rod.

I order them based on where I want the back of the reel seat to land on the blank. As Steve said, a half size smaller is better than going too large. If it's too large you have to shim it to fit and you defeat the purpose of that type of seat somewhat. And too large can cause finish problems.

They're easy to ream. I just reamed an Alps MVT reel seat using what amounts to a 1/4" diameter rod with a slit cut in the end. I put a 3" length of 1" wide 100 grit sanding belt in the slit and chucked it up in a cordless drill. It took about 5 minutes to open up the reel seat the .015" that I needed. Fits as Ace Ventrua would say ... "like a glove"

Thanks for all the advice. I've had to ream exposed blank casting seats in the past, but it was more of an accident/mistake than by design. I imagine I'll try ordering 'small' on purpose this time. Slainte!!!

From ghoulies and ghosties,
and long leggedy beasties,
and things that go bump in the night,
Good Lord deliver us!