Base Ring Size When Moving From Plastic To Metal

I’m planning to swap my CB6000s for a Steelworxx Looker 02 and need to pick the correct base ring size. I currently wear a 1 7/8 ID ring on the CB, which fits perfectly. However, anyone familiar with that device knows the upper section of the ring—where the connecting pieces join—is flatter than usual. This gives the ring a height of 1 3/4. The width comes out to about 47.6mm while the height is around 44.4mm. My main question is whether I should choose the 45mm or the 47mm option for the Looker.

I’ve attempted several times in the past to drop down from a 1 7/8 ring to a 1 3/4 one on my CB, but it ends up being too tight. So I know there is definitely enough difference between 45mm and 47mm to matter.

Has anyone else here made this switch? Does the lower profile of the metal ring let you get away with a smaller size? And does that apply when using an anatomical ring as well?

Thanks for sharing this; it'll be helpful for me too. I look forward to seeing what others say.

It's pretty standard to drop down a bit when moving to a metal device. This seems especially true for Steelworxx devices because their rings are crafted from thicker steel diameter-wise. That said, it doesn't work for everyone, and unfortunately, no one has quite cracked the code on a pattern that tells you which size is best. I've handled this by purchasing two rings: one in my current size and another just one step smaller. It's not the most budget-friendly approach, but it saves both time and money compared to returns. Also, I don't think the lower profile is the main factor as much as the smoothness of the steel making a difference. No hard proof on that, but it feels like that's what people agree upon.