I have a Helios 5 weight...really love it. As the other folks have commented, the dots are not meant to be close together. They're just there to help you align the rod sections. As far as how tight the sections should be, just follow the instructions that should have been included with your rod. You should also have received a container of ferrule wax along with the rod. Use it. This stuff will help maintain a snug connection as well as it helps facillitate disassembly. If you're missing either of these items just contact Orvis and they'll take care of you. My experience with them has always been very good.