How long is yours?

[buzz]

I went fishing yesterday, with a alleged 9'6'' rod and a 8'6'' rod. Nothing strange in that. When i was packing up and putting the kit in the car i noticed that there was only maybe 6'' in difference overall in the rod lengths, even from the top of the handle there looked as if there was only 6'' in it. Lacking a tape measure can someone tell me where the size is measured from ?Is it the overall size from tip to fighting butt or the visible blank? What is also puzzling is both rods have the size clearly marked on?
I suspect B&Q will be getting a visit on the way home.
Finally no jokes please about my 6''

[rusty]

The Weights and Measures people are very particular. Don't let them loose on the tackle companies or we will all finish up rodless!!Few rods are the correct length partly caused by the metric equivalents and there is no standard that I am aware of of tolerances on length.
rusty ;D

[PLG]

its the full length of the rod from bottom of but to tip ring i have just measured some to make sure all made in alnwick and everyone is like that

[welshosprey]

I have a 10 foot Sharpes Gordon whereas my dad fishes a 10 foot Greyflex. My rod measures 9 foot 10 1/2 inches. My dads measures 10 foot 1 1/2 inches. Thats three inches difference on two rods alleged to be the same length.

He doesn't catch more than me though, so maybe size doesn't matter after all. ;D

[AlanB]

The real point should be that any rod that is not within say 1/2" of its stated size should have to be sold for £1. That would make them get it right!

Alan