Guide ring material

SiC

Traits

• Hardest, smoothest, best heat dissipation

Best for

• Braid at high line speed

Trade-offs

• Price

Alconite

Traits

• Near-SiC smoothness at lower cost

Best for

• Most freshwater setups

Hardloy / O-ring

Traits

• Entry-level, durable enough

Best for

• Budget builds

Trade-offs

• Thin braid under long heavy use