I just got a Kistler LTA that I ordered and found that the first guide is not in perfect alignment with the rest.  It is off by 5 or 10 degrees so that the edge of the guide is in line with the center of the others.

Aside from the visual aspects of this, will it affect casting or retrieving?  I am inclined to have it replaced, but that will be a PIA.  Should I try to bend it?

Aside from the visual aspects of this, will it affect casting or retrieving?

Not sure could cause the line to stack to one side on the spool. You will have to line the rod and retrieve the line to see..

As a rod builder I would suggest, if you can return it then do it don't mess with it just exchange it. The guides as you look down the rod should be in almost perfect alignment...

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!!  

For the price.....should be strait. Hell you can buy el-cheapo MASS produced china rods for under $35 with strait guides....

If you are in some situation where you absolutely can not return it (bought new but 2nd hand from a forum member for example) then a custom rod builder can remove it  re-wrap it and finish it for you.

listen to reel mechanic.

Exactly what another member said, for the money, it should be straight.

Send that rod back, but I know it'll kill you cuz you've had and now you have to send it back out.

Just email or call Kistler, they are good with customer service.  Had a buddy with a cracked tip on a magnesium that was likely damaged during shipping, the rod was replaced within a reasonable time fram and he got a great deal on a new LTA straight from Kistler.  Just let them know of your concern and they should do you right.  No matter how good or expensive a product is, there are always bound to be a few that slip by unnoticed.