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10 for $5 at http://www.tenkarabum.com/tippet-rings.html

I have never heard of using a tippet ring other than at the tippet end of the line. It should thus have no impact on attaching the line to the rod.

I wouldn't be overly concerned with what is considered traditional. Throughout the history of tenkara, there have been advancements in the equipment used. If everyone on down the line had rigidly...