So far I've not encountered this problem (now, stand by for a future posting that I have done so) - However - my favorite two ways of breaking a rod (at least the tip) still remains:
1) walking into a tree rod tip first (I know, I know ... supposed to walk with the rod near trees carrying the rod reel first)
2) closing the car/station wagon/SUV/truck door on the tip while watching myself do so and yet powerless to stop it.