some time later...

turns out Himself had a scale that weighs grains. using the chart so kindly provided, we measured out 30 feet(against the 5' kitchen counter) and weighed a great many lines. we found the 8wt reel for the 8wt rod, which was the original reason for turning out that closet.

we have labeled everything we measured, too, so there go half the mysteries of life...

thanks to all involved!