The tip of the 1208. is a size 8 tube. Al Golberg says to use this configuration: HNLGs 20, 16, 12, 12, 10, 10, 10 with a size 10 UST tip.

First, does this sound like the right set up to go with a 7000C3?

Considering that is right, my next question is where can I get HNLG guides? I've found BHNLGs but no HNLGs. I assumed that they are the same thing, just black. None of the sites had just HNLGs.

Third question: The rod tip is an 8. I can't find a UST 10/8 tip top. Mike T sells a PST 10/8 PST top. What is the difference between the PST and the UST series of tops?

I also looked for a 10/8.5 UST tip so I could build up the tip of the blank but that was a no go. The best I could do is a 10/9 UST. If the PST isn't advisable, would I be better off building up the tip to a 9 or cutting the tip back to a 9?

If your answer is build up the tip, what should I use to do this?

If your answer is to cut the tip back, aproximately how much of the rod would I lose?

Thanks guys

If you are using a 7000 size reel, I'd start with at least a 25 but better with a 30 ist guide. Then go 20 - 16 -12 if you are going to go with the controlled guide setup he specs out...

"B" is black - "G" gold & "T" titanium

Never built that rod (yet) so I don't know what to say on the tips sizes or how much to cut. But the rod from Mike T and I'm sure he will recommend what adjustments and then do the cutting/trimming you want on that blank (but you'll need to pay for it first)...