Hi Rob
Interesting, those still look like spiral ringed rods to me. Got any online articles on this?
Magnus
Firstly articles. I have not seen any as the rod manufacturers dont want you to know that the rings they put on screw up the action of the rod. There are mentions of guide induced torque in some US manufacturers websites (spinning rods) and Century USA and UK catalogues. There is a big "fashion" parade in carp fishing circles, with looks taking over from function. 5 rings on a 12 foot rod are not enough, large 40mm or 50mm rings do not do what they say and handle lengths hinder rather than serve..but fashion takes over.
As for the photos, these are factory built rods, nothing special, with straight guides. The one of Danny casting is an advert for centurys C2 rod
http://www.centurycarp.co.uk/carp-rods/century-c2/ . Worth noting the C2 is a top of the range rod (£500) and not a cheap floppy blank. It is wrung with Fuji high stand off K series, and this is the problem. The rings stand well clear of the blank, causing huge twisting forces during a cast. (see video in link to see how far away).
The photo on the beach is someone mackeral fishing. He is using a Daiwa Powermesh Carp rod as can be seen in this photo (handle is very distinct, as is the diameter of the blank)
The bottom photo is of Terry Edwards, well known distance angler. The rod is a Harrison, he is sponsored by them, more than likely a Torrix.
From an advert for a Kevin Nash NRXD carp rod, straight guides.
Another one, this time with a Century FS
There are loads out there..all factory rods. Carp rods are just not spiral wrapped.