I just order from somewhere like Mudhole or Jann's Netcraft and fill out the order with tackle crafting stuff that's hard to find locally.

 

If you arent positive of the size, just order several sizes and keep the others for spares.

 

I just ordered a big collection of assorted tips - always seem to need them, and like having a bunch of different sizes on hand. But a couple of my rods that need repair are bigger saltwater rods, so likely I'll have to order them individually. Just have a couple I want to use next weekend, so would like to get them repaired asap. i'll prob just have to buy one or two of those Fuji repair kits.

I do have digital calipers, so I know the tip size I need. this chart (from the rod building forum) also helped:
http://www.rodbuildingforum.com/index.php?showtopic=6273

Think I'll do the same with rod guides, i.e., buy an assortment just to have on hand. Have gone a long time with no guide/tip issues, then busted the eyes out of three tips this weekend. have also lost a couple of guides to aging epoxy, and, in one case, to braided line that sliced a guide off like a razor (was hung up, and line got wrapped around guide while trying to get the lure free).

 

I order all my mudhole parts through Mojo's on capital. They have been great to me with all my needs. They just rushed an order for me last week. That's not always the norm but they have been a great help.

 

Was able to get most of what I needed at the new-ish Field & Stream store in Cary (hwy55).

I think this is most of their inventory: https://goo.gl/photos/A8x2QH2Uo3gye1nM6

FYI -- joel

 

Got a whole bunch of 'em.

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

 

Just for the archives: Bass Pro Shops in Cary has a pretty good selection of rod tip guides. Here's a shot of their relevant inventory: