ALPS rod building: reel seats and components

Taiwan: Components made in Tainan
6061-T6: Machined and anodized aluminum for reel seats
MVT: Toray carbon reel seat launched in 2014

The story of the brand

From Tainan to your rod, part by part

ALPS is a Taiwanese maker of rod components based in Tainan. Its factory produces machined aluminum parts and precision-formed guides. In the United States, Batson Enterprises distributes the brand and develops some models together with the ALPS engineers.

In 2013, ALPS launched the TexTouch, a graphite casting reel seat with three cut-outs. The MVT followed in 2014: its frame adds Toray carbon fibers to carry vibrations better. In 2015, the RPDMVT brought the same recipe to spinning. The aluminum reel seats are machined from 6061-T6 alloy, then anodized against corrosion.

Today, the catalogue covers reel seats, rod guides, tip tops, gimbals and rod building tools. Rodhouse stocks a large part of it, from light casting reel seats to roller guides for trolling.

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Key dates

2013 Launch of the TexTouch graphite casting reel seat
2014 The MVT arrives, with a frame reinforced by Toray carbon
2015 The RPDMVT brings MVT technology to spinning rods

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything about the brand

Where are ALPS components made?

ALPS is a Taiwanese manufacturer based in Tainan. Its factory produces the reel seats, rod guides and machined aluminum parts.

In the United States, its components are distributed by Batson Enterprises. Some models are developed together with the Batson engineers.

What is the difference between ALPS MVT and TexTouch reel seats?

Both are graphite casting reel seats with three cut-outs, so your finger stays in contact with the blank. The TexTouch, launched in 2013, mixes carbon, nylon and fiberglass, with a Texalium insert on the small sizes.

The MVT, launched in 2014, keeps this design and adds Toray carbon fibers to the frame. It aims for more sensitivity and strength. Both are sold without a locking nut.

Which locking nut should I choose for an ALPS reel seat?

The MVT and TexTouch seats are sold without a nut. For the MVT, choose the MVT-16-DKN, a double nut in machined aluminum with a Delrin spacer. For the TexTouch, the TX-16-DN fits.

For spinning, the RPDMVT-IC pairs with the RPDMVT-DKN. Always check the model and size before you order.

ALPS components at Rodhouse

Rodhouse offers a wide choice of ALPS components to build your own rod. You will find casting, spinning and fly reel seats. The range also covers rod guides, tip tops and butt parts. For big game fishing, ALPS supplies roller guides and gimbals. These parts suit both freshwater and saltwater rods.

ALPS makes its components in Taiwan, in the city of Tainan. Its aluminum reel seats are machined from 6061-T6 alloy, then anodized. Its graphite models focus on low weight and direct contact with the blank.

How to choose in the ALPS range

Start with your technique and your type of reel. The blank diameter then sets the size of the reel seat.

For a light casting rod, the MVT reel seat mixes Toray carbon and nylon.
The TexTouch casting seat has a frame with three cut-outs and a Texalium insert.
For spinning, the RPDMVT uses the same materials as the MVT, with a built-in shim.
For fly rods, the ALPS guide packs cover line weights from 2 to 12.
For trolling, pick your roller guides by line class, from 30 lb to Unlimited.

Also think about the locking nuts. The MVT and TexTouch seats are sold without a nut. Check the fit before you place your order. Not sure about the size or the guide train? Our team will help you plan your build. Tell us your blank and your technique, and we will suggest the right parts.

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ALPS: reel seats, rod guides and rod building components

From Tainan to your rod, part by part

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