The most common rod materials are graphite (carbon fiber impregnated with a high strength resin) and fiberglass, or composite which is a combination of them together. Marketing terms for graphite blank quality is often described as modulus. Each material has qualities that define it use. Graphite is lighter and stiffer but less durable than fiberglass. Lighter and stiffer allows for more sensitivity. The manufacturing process also affects the blank quality and performance. Bamboo is another material that produces a very high quality rod, primarily used in fly rods.
Rod action and rod power also define the finished rod. Each manufacturer describes their blanks using terms like action. This describes the amount of rod tip flex from the tip to the butt section. An example would be moderate action would flex down the blank farther than one with extra fast or fast action. Power describes the blank as it applies to the line class and force it takes to deflect the blank. Each manufacturer uses its own power rating designation to describe their blanks. This should be used as a starting reference and not an exact science.
Grips and the materials they are made of are almost limited to only your imagination. The most common are cork, graphite tube, Eva type foam and wood.
 Rod guides provide a smooth surface for the line travel and dissipate the heat generated at the ring from line friction. Guides are found in two primary styles, double and single foot models. This primarily describes how the guide will be attached to the rod. Within each foot style there are application differences. High frame, heavy duty, snake, boat and trolling to name a few. The ring material establishes a performance level for given application. Guide rings range in material from a ceramic or ceramic combined with a second material to no ring at all and just stainless steel. Frames are made of titanium and stainless steel to fit a wide variety of applications. Frames are plated for corrosion resistance and beauty. Material composition also determines price relative to that performance. One of the largest and most recognizable names in guides is Fuji.
 The thread used for guide attachment and decorative wrapping is nearly endless. Most color choices can be accommodated with either rod building thread or thread from the embroidery world.
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