I am using 1 5/8" (under collar to tip) for a 16 lug Gretsch snare (8 small tom lugs/ head.......and thanks for the beauties BLAIR!).

Does it make much of a difference - if any - and why - if I use any one of the three types pictured here?

I would like to use the rods on the left = more thread.

The main reason for asking is that I'm getting the ones I settle with gold plated. Therefore it's not just a matter of switching them out whenever I want for whatever reason.

Another issue is I have some new 1 5/8" t-rods with washers that do not slip off over the threads -they're on there to stay. They're nice and clean but this might also be an issue for gold plating.

Which ones to use - which would be best to use on the snare and to plate?

Thoughts???