So I got a new rod in the mail and everything looked great but I did notice 2 small areas on the outside of the microwave guide that the black paint is gone and the metal color is exposed. Can I use a certain black paint to cover it? Something that would work and be waterproof? 

First choice: if it's an rod from someone like Dobyns, St. Croix or other reputable manufacturer - especially if it's a higher end rod...contact them for a replacement. Most of them are happy to 'fix' issues like this.

 

Second choice: If you want to fix it yourself...Testor's or Model Master Enamel paint (not the Acrylic) - available from your local hobby shop. Dab on and let dry for at LEAST 2 days.

1 minute ago, MN Fisher said:

First choice: if it's an rod from someone like Dobyns, St. Croix or other reputable manufacturer - especially if it's a higher end rod...contact them for a replacement. Most of them are happy to 'fix' issues like this.

 

Second choice: If you want to fix it yourself...Testor's or Model Master Enamel paint (not the Acrylic) - available from your local hobby shop. Dab on and let dry for at LEAST 2 days.

It’s a lews custom lfs black I waited 2 weeks for it not directly from lews but tavkledirect, and don’t really feel like sending it back out, so I’d figure I’d just fix it not a big problem to me tbh.

1 minute ago, Jonny15678 said:

It’s a lews custom lfs black I waited 2 weeks for it not directly from lews but tavkledirect, and don’t really feel like sending it back out, so I’d figure I’d just fix it not a big problem to me tbh.

As long as the paint will hold up and won’t be effected from water and will match the original black.

7 minutes ago, Jonny15678 said:

As long as the paint will hold up and won’t be effected from water and will match the original black.

Your choices in finish are pretty much Flat, Matt and Gloss - so that's easily done.

 

Once dry, enamel paint is pretty much indestructible unless you hit it with Mineral Spirits...I'm pretty sure it's what they use in the factory though they might bake it on which increases it's durability - not something you can do at home.

Just use a black sharpie. You or anyone else won’t notice it. If it fades, reapply. 

18 hours ago, Kidflex said:

Just use a black sharpie. You or anyone else won’t notice it. If it fades, reapply. 

LOL! I thought I was the only one who did this. I use sharpies to cover boat rash on my black reels. 

 

To the OP, that kind of damage is unacceptable on a brand new purchase. Return it and get a new one. 

While that's certainly not ideal, most of my rods have little paint left around the guides from rod socks and use. I'd hit it with a sharpie and by the time the sharpie fades it won't be new and will just give it character.  Just my opinion tho and I certainly understand not being satisfied.