MyFishFinder Forum
MyFishFinder Tips and Techniques => Fishing Equipment => Do-It-Yourselfers => Topic started by: chris458wm on Apr 26, 2012, 08:24 PM
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I was wondering if anyone builds their own rods. I saw a guy doing it on tv and it looks like a fun project and pretty easy to do. If anyone does this can you tell me is it really as easy as it seems? Also any tips and tricks to keep in mind?
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I have made a few over the years,the best thing to do is buy a kit this way you get everything you need,the most important thing is to find the spine of the rod,its a little hard to explain in words for me but there are videos on youtube that cover all the steps, mudhole is the company that has the videos on line and they have everything you need to build a rod,they have a good catalog with the steps in it also,the only thing you will need is a way to hold the rod when your wrapping the guides on,I made my own and its simple just look at the pics to get an idea. good luck
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I have built rods for years. You CAN build a better rod than you can buy. The thing I tell folks that want to build rods is that it is not difficult but you have to pay attention to what you are doing and take your time. If you slap-dash something together you end up with an expensive piece of garbage. Mudhole is a great place to check out. I get much of my stuff from them. Batson Enterprises also has videos and good blanks and components. There are others also just do a search for custom rod building. You do not need a fancy rod lathe to get started. The supports for wrapping a rod are pretty simple to make. The kit idea is probably a good one for your first couple of rods but if you start getting into it then design your own rods from handles, type and size of reel seat, guides and placement, add more guides, take away guides. See what makes a better rod. Anyway check out mudhole and other rod building forums and see what you think. If you have any questions shoot me a pm and I will try to help out.
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It's very rewarding to build and fish your own. I've been building since the 70's and each rod is special. I've only ever given a couple to close friends as presents. Other than that, I build for me.
My fly rod collection is my passion. I now have 3wt, 2 - 5wt's, 1 - 6wt, 7wt, and a 9/10wt and a restored 1940's vintage 7wt bamboo rod. It's a great hobby, skill, obsession. Best of all is when you go look at a high price production rod and think to yourself "Mine is much better!". The investment in time, materials, tools and equipment is well worth it to me.
I'm more than happy to help get you started. Just ask.
RG
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Now I know some of you are building rods......I've added several to the collection and new power wrapper to fuel my addiction.
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F2-17-20131%2FDSC00959_zps71df3941.jpg&hash=65d125fdcba7316e137ca47e5b515c08)
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F2-17-20131%2FDSC00961_zpsd424a847.jpg&hash=0d00860413c1a335b9520906decc2e19)
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F2-17-20131%2FDSC00966_zps55c4d517.jpg&hash=fe6bc92fcbcc0e6502e9635cf7f65845)
Updated my drying box too.
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F2-17-20131%2FDSC00960_zps039524e1.jpg&hash=70082fd429f583e9153630fa5867ef18)
My first 2 on the new "machine". A pair of stream rods. 6"6" 2 wt fly rod, 6'6" UL spinning rod.
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F3-3-2013%2FDSC00971_zps7a7b1bce.jpg&hash=470617e4488010bae8e6e0a7b3d65239)
RG
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Very nice building room rgfixit! Been building rods for 15 years and it can get addicting. Mud hole & netcraft are great places to buy from. Have been using Batson Rainshadow blanks the last couple years, they have treated me well. Start out slow with a cheap kit like an ultralight spin and see how you like it. You can make a rod wrapper out of a cardboard box use a book to tension the thread and when you apply the finish just turn the blank a quarter turn every 10 min or so for the first hour. I invested in a power wrapper and could not be happier, but I also build rods for others. You do not need much to start and build a few rods. Good luck
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It's the "hobby Room". 99% of the time I'm tying flies.
RG
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I personally have had bad experience with mud hole yes they ha en everything but worst customer service and outrageous shipping costs. Should have listened to rg earlier... my business will be going elsewhere from here on
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My first spinning rod build was from a very cheap yard sale fly rod, a handle from a broken spinning rod, and assorted salvaged guides. Great practice costing virtually nothing and no worry about wrecking something I'd paid good bucks for. Learned a lot by going this route before moving up to good components.
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Built a laser alignment system for my rod wrapper. I have to say it's the nutz!
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F4-5-2014%2FDSC01699_zps9715acf7.jpg&hash=0ec9d3b1e55ab185f985818a984aed1d)
(https://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv15%2Fbrfixit%2F4-5-2014%2FDSC01701_zps2c221cac.jpg&hash=cbb0316aaeb29855accdac95a7a954ed)
Simple, cheap and effective..
RG
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I was wondering if anyone builds their own rods. I saw a guy doing it on tv and it looks like a fun project and pretty easy to do. If anyone does this can you tell me is it really as easy as it seems? Also any tips and tricks to keep in mind?
Hey Chris.. I know this is an old thread........ but I enjoy restoring older vintage bamboo rods... I did built several Ice Rods for a couple guys too!
It is fun.... time and patience consuming and requires a good imagination... But it's very rewarding when you finish a project. 8)
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Just got back to a rod I started last spring.
I don't have the time to work on rods, or wish to, during the warmer months.
This is a one pc 5.5' light action (not UL) spining rod.
It was an inexpensive kit that Mudhole had a special running on so I bought 2 kits last year.
Anyway, this one will be a Xmas gift for special fishing buddy this year.
It's all wrapped.
I'll do the epoxy tomorrow as I am waiting for a box of syringes to arrive.
I need the syringes to measure the epoxy accurately in very small amounts.
It appears that someone took the bag of syringes I had down there in my workshop over to thier appartment and never returned them.
:-\
Anyway, it looks pretty good and should easily be ready to give it to my buddy in time for Christmas.
I'll post a pic when it's complete.
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Nice, I did a ice rod for my boy for Xmas.
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Nice, I did a ice rod for my boy for Xmas.
That’s awesome.
Rods are always great gifts I think.
But one that you made for the person adds that little bit extra.
Great job dad.
Great job!!!
BTW, I think everyone here on MFF knows who my “special fishing buddy” might be.
;)
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I think anything handmade makes a great gift, just finishing up building some jigging spoons to go with it.
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My rod building days are long gone. But....I’m venturing into the world of hand made fishing floats. It seems a cross between fly tying and rod building. I built a lot of rods. Some sold, some gifted and a lot for myself. I’ve restored many bamboo and vintage glass rods. My fly tying bench sees a lot of activity spring and summer. In the cold dark days, I retreat to my basement wood shop.
Marrying the two , I’ve built all the necessary fixturing to make, of all things, traditional bobbers.
The hand operated lathe
(https://i.postimg.cc/21ZT3VzC/9-F0-F8-F71-6576-4003-AB01-133-A08-F7-C055.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/21ZT3VzC)
The slow motion dipping machine
(https://i.postimg.cc/gXkvyJPX/52780-CB9-F412-4-AB7-92-A4-0-D6-F3511490-C.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/gXkvyJPX)
The revolving drier.
(https://i.postimg.cc/DmSG7RfT/79-D27-D99-5-B9-A-4-C7-F-B035-C61-B3412-CA2-C.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/DmSG7RfT)
There’s a learning curve to finishing these little bobbers. I’m working on it. I really like the idea of feather inlays. So, I’ve dipped into my mountain of fly tying feathers to play with the concept.
Here’s a practice piece.
(https://i.postimg.cc/wyCjqfFq/E1-B76-A0-A-B1-EF-4-AA9-B537-FD933-B0-A6347.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/wyCjqfFq)
Time and many rejects may just yield a few pretty bobbers.
Rg
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Just finished a little rework and touch up on the rod. I’m not as good as Jeff building these and make mistakes. However, almost anything can be corrected.
I think this rod will end up being a good all around light duty rod. I coupled it with an inexpensive off brand 2000 spinning reel.
Tomorrow night I’ll snap and post a few pics.
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My rod building days are long gone. But....I’m venturing into the world of hand made fishing floats. It seems a cross between fly tying and rod building. I built a lot of rods. Some sold, some gifted and a lot for myself. I’ve restored many bamboo and vintage glass rods. My fly tying bench sees a lot of activity spring and summer. In the cold dark days, I retreat to my basement wood shop.
Marrying the two , I’ve built all the necessary fixturing to make, of all things, traditional bobbers.
The hand operated lathe
(https://i.postimg.cc/21ZT3VzC/9-F0-F8-F71-6576-4003-AB01-133-A08-F7-C055.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/21ZT3VzC)
The slow motion dipping machine
(https://i.postimg.cc/gXkvyJPX/52780-CB9-F412-4-AB7-92-A4-0-D6-F3511490-C.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/gXkvyJPX)
The revolving drier.
(https://i.postimg.cc/DmSG7RfT/79-D27-D99-5-B9-A-4-C7-F-B035-C61-B3412-CA2-C.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/DmSG7RfT)
There’s a learning curve to finishing these little bobbers. I’m working on it. I really like the idea of feather inlays. So, I’ve dipped into my mountain of fly tying feathers to play with the concept.
Here’s a practice piece.
(https://i.postimg.cc/wyCjqfFq/E1-B76-A0-A-B1-EF-4-AA9-B537-FD933-B0-A6347.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/wyCjqfFq)
Time and many rejects may just yield a few pretty bobbers.
Rg
Nice, that's a nice looking float.
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It’s getting there. Did some more this afternoon. Took me several years before I produced a rod I was really pleased with. This feels the same.
But, I’ll get there.
Rg
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Hey Bob
This is “rod building”.
Not “float building”.
;)
Here’s what I’m currently working on
A one pc 6’ light spinning rod.
It was a close out kit and only $19’plus shipping.
I added 2 more eyes to the kit and a dropshot style hook stay and nice winding check on the fore grip.
Might have $30 in it total.
Should be a killer all around spinning rod.
Good for perch, panfish, stream trout, but enough backbone for an occasional decent walleye or even large bass.
Not sure if I’ll sell this one.
I gave its sister to Jeff.
Maybe I’ll keep this one for myself.
Dunno.
(https://i.postimg.cc/RNC2cWGN/4-E9699-B1-DDA6-43-E8-8673-36-AE220-D08-B6.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RNC2cWGN)
(https://i.postimg.cc/kBjzw7hw/6-B8-EAC07-E3-C1-40-A0-861-E-D75-F89458-FE4.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/kBjzw7hw)
(https://i.postimg.cc/mPJqf84H/917-F84-CF-69-F6-48-D7-929-E-D3802-D754-FB1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mPJqf84H)
(https://i.postimg.cc/wtNr6Lxb/C4-E3-DF0-E-F73-A-46-D4-8030-2-EA9-AE08-E592.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/wtNr6Lxb)
(https://i.postimg.cc/14rLnGGk/D60-E1-EB1-DE3-F-4-F57-AFA1-AC8-F3-EF6-D219.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/14rLnGGk)
(https://i.postimg.cc/dhLXxgbF/F5-D658-B7-8700-457-D-99-AB-5-C3-BD629-C5-E3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dhLXxgbF)
I got the tiptop on and wrapped, along with the 5 small eyes.
Time for a break.
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Ok...ok....A rod building tip for you. Take your Dremel and grind the leading edge of the eye foot to a curved slope. It’ll make the transition from rod to foot a lot easier and smoother.
Rg
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Ok...ok....A rod building tip for you. Take your Dremel and grind the leading edge of the eye foot to a curved slope. It’ll make the transition from rod to foot a lot easier and smoother.
Rg
ok.......ok........
:D
I do Bob.
But my grinder took a powder the other day.
Jeff repaired it and was going to bring it back last night but never showed.
So I used a stone in my cordless drill.
It worked but the rpm's really weren't high enough to do a really proper job.
Also, sometimes I like that little hump there to be honest.
It accentuates the wrap and eye area a little more.
Just for something different.
I then use a paint pen to "doctor" the area so the black rod blank doesn't show thru the epoxy later.
Those eyes were ground, but so was my thumb because of the way I was doing it.
BTW, no Dremel tool.
It was a casualty long ago never replaced by whichever son caused the casualty.
;)
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Go buy a new Dremel tool!
If mine died tomorrow it wouldn’t owe me a thing, and I’d buy one within hours. One of my favorite tools.
Rg
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Go buy a new Dremel tool!
If mine died tomorrow it wouldn’t owe me a thing, and I’d buy one within hours. One of my favorite tools.
Rg
Can’t afford it.
8)
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(https://i.postimg.cc/w1mhbSS1/B14-C2-F73-C935-481-C-AFCA-B77106988-F8-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w1mhbSS1)
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(https://i.postimg.cc/w1mhbSS1/B14-C2-F73-C935-481-C-AFCA-B77106988-F8-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w1mhbSS1)
:rotflol: :rotflol: :rotflol:
It took me a minute, but it finally clicked. ;D
To be honest Bob, I rarely have use for a Dremmel.
And to spend $40-100 on a new one just to grind the feet of rod eyes doesn't make sense to me.
Typically, I use my bench grinder.
Not as easy as a Dremmel would be I totally agree, but it works.
I'm just waiting for Jeff to stop by with it since he fixed it for me Monday.
But thanks.
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Harbor freight...less than $20.....just sayin
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Harbor freight...less than $20.....just sayin
Ahhh.
So not a Dremmel.
A Dremmel wannabe
I have owned 3 like that.
They don't last.
But maybe for this might be ok.
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For as much as you use it.......
I have a really basic Dremel that’s ...well.....old. A few years back the nose bearing was going bad. I called the company and they sent me 2 new bearings no charge. I learned to use a Dremel during my days as a gunsmith apprentice. We used them for many different repairs and alterations.
I’d have a hard time not having one on my bench.
Rg
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I haves 3” bench grinder with a wand , pretty handy tool I use it for making spoons
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Exactly....doesn’t have to be huge to do the job right.
Rg
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The one at Harbor Feight is actually $23.
;D
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The one at Harbor Feight is actually $23.
;D
So I bought this one for $22.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07N76TT6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07N76TT6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
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Now your talking!
Rg
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Very handy little tool, I have a dremel and the craftsman version they come in handy when needed.
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Caught this 1 on sale
http:// https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=l&ai=DChcSEwj504_sn6DuAhWG9uMHHZXbDtkYABAEGgJ5bQ&ae=2&sig=AOD64_017NuQo6wAXuFA-ktiHI912elLYg&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwjs8Yfsn6DuAhVClVkKHS8cBrsQwg96BAgDEB0&dct=1&adur
I have that same dremel very handy
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That’s pretty cool. If my Dremel ever finally dies ( which it probably won’t) I’ll probably just get a newer model. Maybe cordless.
KP is sending me a bamboo rod to do some work on. I’ve refurbished a few and it’s really fun work. Something special about working on another craftsman’s piece. Gunsmithing it was like that too. Making a finely crafted firearm new again was very rewarding.
Rg
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My dremel tool did quit a few months ago, motor was running but shaft didn't turn. Plastic coupler between motor and shaft broke,$2.99 from ereplacement parts.ordered 2 so I have a spare.
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Caught this 1 on sale
http:// https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=l&ai=DChcSEwj504_sn6DuAhWG9uMHHZXbDtkYABAEGgJ5bQ&ae=2&sig=AOD64_017NuQo6wAXuFA-ktiHI912elLYg&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwjs8Yfsn6DuAhVClVkKHS8cBrsQwg96BAgDEB0&dct=1&adur
I have that same dremel very handy
Yea, I saw that.
I have 2 bench grinders.
One in the basement and one at the lake.
The one in the basement is the one that broke and Jeff repaired.
1.5 yrs left here, so I'll try and use the one he repaired till then.
Then maybe look at that or something like that.
My bench grinders are 6" wheels with more power than that one.
And when I need a "bench grinder" I would fear that that little 3" lower powered unit might not do the job.
But who knows.
Besides, it's only $30.
One note is that it's only 10,000 RPM.
Dremels typically have 30,000+
When you're working with smaller stones you need more RPM.
But................who knows.
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The one I ordered arrives later today.
In the meantime, I have my 4x8 utility trailer in the garage and the furnace on.
I'm going to replace the hub on one side.
Jeff borrowed it to go bear hunting back in the Fall and spun the other side's bearings on the trip.
So he replaced that one.
I will check his work while I'm out there too. ;)
anyway, I bought a new hub and bearings for this other side as a precaution.
The trialer is a 2000 and I've never touched the bearings.
The trailer was $800 new at Tractor Supply and doesn't owe me a dime!!!
Preventative maintenance with this 2nd hub and it will no doubt outlast me.
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I have 2 bench grinders. One in the garage and one at my lathe. The 8” variable speed at the lathe is dedicated to sharpening with some pretty expensive CBN wheels. The one in the garage is a beater. I’ve had it for longer than I can remember.......which really isn’t that long these days.
Rg
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Mac I have a 6” in the garage , how much power do I need for making spoons , and it didn’t cost me $30 caught it on sale
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Mac I have a 6” in the garage , how much power do I need for making spoons , and it didn’t cost me $30 caught it on sale
Yup!
For sure!
I looked closer (again) at that 3” bench unit. There’s a few reports on its lack of torque and a few said they could stop the wheel with their finger. Not what you want when grinding metal.
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Don’t know what to tell you Mac I’ve made dozens of spoons ,which are a weighted type flutter spoon which is very thin , I didn't buy it for heavy grinding,
These didn’t object 😃
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCs6xYmp/8-E7-EF2-F1-C0-D9-44-D4-AE8-A-20-C78-A8-EF1-CA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCs6xYmp)
(https://i.postimg.cc/68rMGq0H/941-A2213-BE86-4883-A952-5-CD2-BC8824-A3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/68rMGq0H)
[/list]
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I’d like to see those spoons!
Nice perch right there.
Rg
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They aren’t fancy , just like my bucktails , they are just functional, as I’m not a perfectionist
But you know RG over the years guys seem to try and use a small tool for a big job , they should know the limitations of their equipment 😃
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Don’t know what to tell you Mac I’ve made dozens of spoons ,which are a weighted type flutter spoon which is very thin , I didn't buy it for heavy grinding,
These didn’t object 😃
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCs6xYmp/8-E7-EF2-F1-C0-D9-44-D4-AE8-A-20-C78-A8-EF1-CA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCs6xYmp)
(https://i.postimg.cc/68rMGq0H/941-A2213-BE86-4883-A952-5-CD2-BC8824-A3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/68rMGq0H)
[/list]
OMG! You eat those?? Leave them on the front step, I’ll be by to dispose of them for you.😁
Heavy metal, heavy grinder!
Light metal, light grinder! My granddad taught me that many years ago. 😎
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(https://i.postimg.cc/PPTbGT9v/673-C11-AB-1-A0-C-4-F14-8-DC6-6-CFD41-C8-D44-C.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PPTbGT9v)
Words to live by.
Rg
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(https://i.postimg.cc/BjV3nLcy/transport-hijack-jumbo-pilot-runway-airport-staff-mwln8-low.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/BjV3nLcy)
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All eyes, tiptop, and hook stay wound and epoxied. One of the eyes winding frayed a little. I should be able to repair it but if not I’ll remove it, rewrap and epoxy it again. Came out pretty nice for a low cost rod that will get used. Still not sure who will get it yet.
I have a video of it drying in the lathe I would like to post.
Hey Bob - how can I get it loaded here?
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Have to load it to YouTube first. Vimeo might work as well. Postimages doesn’t load videos to my knowledge.
Bob
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Round and round and round they go......
Rg
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The dremel worked.
Not sure if it’s any better than my bench grinder for doing the eye feet.
But it works.
And Jeff brought back my bench grinder.
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Just easier and a little more precise. I think.
Bob
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Starting 4 new rods. All 7’ two pc spinning rods. Two medium and 2 light. The mediums will be good for casting plugs, spinners, and spoons to pike and bass. The lights will be awesome for jigging walleye or even a very nice perch and crappie rig. Fast action on all. Just finished the butt end of the first of the medium rods. I’m going to do a special black/red thread wrap on these and then probably sell them. These are going to end up being good quality rods that you can fish with. Probably only look to regain the material costs. Not sure yet how much. We’ll see how nice they turn out.
(https://i.postimg.cc/phhJJQcg/317-A6876-E2-DF-49-B4-95-CF-80-A4-FEF4-C203.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/phhJJQcg)
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Posted my project Working on a couple Orvis bamboo rods for a friend in the fly tying thread. Though it should be over here.
Made some good progress so far.
Spent time yesterday stripping the guides off the midge rod. Found a new stripping guide for it in my collection. Got a few coats of spar varnish on both rods. They look pretty darned amazing. The handles cleaned up like new. Cleaned the ferrules and winding checks and removed the corrosion from the reel seats. Removed the two damaged eyes and tip tops from the Shooting Star. Found a couple vintage Hardy Fowlproof wire frame guides on eBay to replace the damaged guides. Ordered some chestnut brown silk thread to do the re-wrapping. Ordered two new tip tops to replace the rusted ones. Tried to bring them back to life but they were too pitted to save.
All the decals and serial numbers are in tact.
Decided to put a little heat to the one tip section and straighten it a bit. It’s not perfect but it’ll fish alright.
I’ll take some pics later after they dry for a while.
They both cleaned up very well. Beautiful color to them both.
I was 8 years old when the Shooting Star was made......63 years ago, and it’s still a fine fly rod.
Guess I’ll have to work up a little hand wrapping fixture today. Not much to wrapping bamboo rods. Silk thread, no trim wraps, spar varnish finish. All hand work. They’ll end up as close to original as is possible.
Rg
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All the decals and serial numbers are in tact.
Rg
That is amazing - sometimes things don't make sense but it's great when it happens.
Then other times..............
Can't wait to see your photos Bob.
I finished the butt section on the 2nd medium weight rod yesterday before the games.
I'm going to do them in sets so that I don't get them confused.
First the medium weight blanks, then the light afterwards.
Or at least until I can get the decals adhered and epoxied to trhe medium rods so I don't mix things up.
Here's a pic I took of the butt sections.
(https://i.postimg.cc/XGzSpfb7/142695311-10217423182361136-8899351694017977221-n.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/XGzSpfb7)
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They look pretty sweet!
Bob
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The Shooting Star
(https://i.postimg.cc/Ny6LyS4j/1487087-B-66-D1-4-FD8-8-EEA-658024-DCC551.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Ny6LyS4j)
(https://i.postimg.cc/w71v57VP/8-B23030-A-2-AD8-4-FCA-A7-D2-30-A57-D62-A0-BB.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w71v57VP)
(https://i.postimg.cc/rK7pfMZp/A40-ADE91-5-B96-4-DD9-8609-A24-A4644-E25-A.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/rK7pfMZp)
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCZ5c90Q/B6-F41-CB0-6-E06-4843-8-B7-A-722-F2-A3-F6-F69.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCZ5c90Q)
The Midge
(https://i.postimg.cc/67ttP3rB/9-D51-E28-D-4-C66-4-AB9-9-C21-2-B3-B8-EC34912.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/67ttP3rB)
(https://i.postimg.cc/K1ryt2dw/5-E89-BEF5-3-F23-4-DCB-93-D2-8-DACEC45-A5-CA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/K1ryt2dw)
(https://i.postimg.cc/yJ1CPGKd/767-A0-CD7-EB62-40-F3-8183-FEF3-A800-E10-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/yJ1CPGKd)
Waiting on a few components now.
Rg
-
The Shooting Star
(https://i.postimg.cc/Ny6LyS4j/1487087-B-66-D1-4-FD8-8-EEA-658024-DCC551.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Ny6LyS4j)Wow! They are looking great my friend. Whatever they need, no issue there. Now, ol KP needs to find a couple of reels for them. I have a third rod, but, it’s missing the top section of the rod. May need to do some research for that to locate one. That is a midge rod also.
Thanks again, Bob!!😎
(https://i.postimg.cc/w71v57VP/8-B23030-A-2-AD8-4-FCA-A7-D2-30-A57-D62-A0-BB.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w71v57VP)
(https://i.postimg.cc/rK7pfMZp/A40-ADE91-5-B96-4-DD9-8609-A24-A4644-E25-A.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/rK7pfMZp)
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCZ5c90Q/B6-F41-CB0-6-E06-4843-8-B7-A-722-F2-A3-F6-F69.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCZ5c90Q)
The Midge
(https://i.postimg.cc/67ttP3rB/9-D51-E28-D-4-C66-4-AB9-9-C21-2-B3-B8-EC34912.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/67ttP3rB)
(https://i.postimg.cc/K1ryt2dw/5-E89-BEF5-3-F23-4-DCB-93-D2-8-DACEC45-A5-CA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/K1ryt2dw)
(https://i.postimg.cc/yJ1CPGKd/767-A0-CD7-EB62-40-F3-8183-FEF3-A800-E10-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/yJ1CPGKd)
Waiting on a few components now.
Rg
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They’re getting there.
I just happen to have a pretty substantial vintage reel collection. When I get them done I’ll see if a couple fit the rods. We can work something out I’m sure.
Bob
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Nice Bob.
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They will be when I’m done.
Really enjoy this kind of work. When I was gunsmithing I did a lot of restoration on firearms. The guy I worked for was brilliant. The work we produced was as close to factory original as was possible. He taught me a lot about detail.
I can hear him in my head when I’m doing something like this.
Rg
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I’m not a good detail guy.
Never been.
I work hard and generally do a good job on what I’m working on.
But for me to do some of the intricate design wraps would be a total waste of time. The rods I’ve built are more basic.
Not pretty.
Rods to use. Not look at and admire the artwork.
I can appreciate the ornate ones that others built I simply cannot generate the interest and/or patience to do that sort of thing.
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Well, I’m not really into ornate either. Form follows function. But, in this case, respecting the craftsman who dedicated their life to creating a bamboo fly rod, which I consider a useful work of art, deserves careful consideration. You can build all the fish sticks you want and be happy with the results. I have a rack full of them.
Restoring the neglected, skillful work of others is a little different. I would hope that in another 60 years someone with my ilk would find one of my fly rods unused and neglected and take responsibility for bringing it back to my original concept, taking the same sense of pride and respect.
What a great legacy.
Rg
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I agree Bob.
I’m just more of a rough carpenter.
Not a finish carpenter.
I get the job done, and generally, it’s good work. Just not always pretty.
But I’m still just as proud of what I accomplished as the guy who builds those fancy jobs.
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Those rods are definitely coming along nicely. You do great work.
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Thanks.....they look a bit better than they did.
Rg
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Thanks.....they look a bit better than they did.
Rg
He was speaking to me.
:rotflol: :rotflol: :rotflol:
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Think so eh?
Waiting on components so I worked on bobbers today. I’ll cut up some more stock tomorrow and turn some more blanks.
Trying to get a good stock of these before my Son gets his online craft store set up.
Rg
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Got the silk thread and a couple eyes yesterday. The eyes aren’t even close to what they’re supposed to be. I’m working with the eBay seller to get the correct eyes.
The one on the left is what I need. The one on the right is what was sent. 4.3 mm I.d. vs 10 mm I.d.
(https://i.postimg.cc/4mYtZmnp/6214-F0-A6-8-D25-4-CB0-B3-FB-DEEC1-CA34-E5-E.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4mYtZmnp)
The wire diameter is substantially thicker too. Looks like it belongs on a tuna rod, not a bamboo fly rod.
(https://i.postimg.cc/8JwWkvhm/7-A6-F5-ABB-38-DE-4-EF7-B79-B-84177-D75-FF4-B.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/8JwWkvhm)
Worst case is I have to order a couple from Mudhole. Don’t like that company. My final order with them was years ago when a $3 purchase carried a $12 shipping fee. It was for a couple snake guides that would have cost no more than $2 to send 1 st class mail. When I called the company they pretty much said “OH WELL” . I cancelled my account.
They seem to be the only ones who carry PAC Bay twister foul proof guides, the only guides I can find in production that duplicate the existing.
Rg
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http://www.anglersworkshop.com/ (http://www.anglersworkshop.com/)
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Nope!
They don’t carry the foul proof “twister” guides.
Bob
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Nope!
They don’t carry the foul proof “twister” guides.
Bob
Mudhole
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Jeff is stopping over later
I’ll ask him
I’m sure he knows of a possible alternate source.
-
(https://i.postimg.cc/cKw9QMCj/10-FBAFAB-4204-4-AFF-B70-E-B199-E829-F310.png) (https://postimg.cc/cKw9QMCj)Are these the guides you’re looking for, Bob?
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Yup...that’s the style. Size 10. It has a 10mm i.d.
Started wrapping the Midge rod today. Either that silk thread is really fine or I need a couple new pairs of glasses.
Bob
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Lol. I rely on my glasses more and more these days. 🤓
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Ha...wait till you're pushing 71.
It’s like wrapping with 7x tippet vs 20 lb mono. It’s seriously strong though. I bought an extra roll for my bobber project.
Bob
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I won't wrap with anything but D thread becuase I can't even see the D without my pair of "cheaters".
:rotflol: :rotflol: :rotflol:
Besdies, I think the D looks better. Personal opinion.
Been waiting for Jeff to come over and review this double parallel thread wrap again that I want to use on these next four rods. He taught it to me last year and I did 2 rods with it but I forget how to start and end it. It's a 2nd thread that you feed into the primary you're using to wrap the eyes and it runs alongside (parallel) with it for a few turns. It makes a really nice and tasteful accent to the wrapping without getting into a crazy weave or something that I have no patience for. Anyway, in the meantime, I went down and reamed and built the last two butt sections. Also marked the medium weight rods so things don't get mixed. So all four rods are now ready to wrap. He's coming over for tacos later. I'm going to video the instructions this time.
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Thread art. Thought you weren’t into the “custom stuff”?
This silk thread is the standard for bamboo rods. I have the patience for it. The end result makes me smile....and the end user.
Rg
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Ha...wait till you're pushing 71.
It’s like wrapping with 7x tippet vs 20 lb mono. It’s seriously strong though. I bought an extra roll for my bobber project.
Bob
I’ve got a ways to go till that age. I can’t wait!! 😁
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Thread art. Thought you weren’t into the “custom stuff”?
Rg
This is what I’m going to do.
(https://i.postimg.cc/18GTtwgN/9-A4-ED467-C2-BD-47-A8-B165-D69-FED929314.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/18GTtwgN)
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Very sexy looking!
Think I’m going to switch to an “A” thread for the midge rod. Don’t like the way the silk I got came out. It’s got some fuzzies from packing the wraps and it doesn’t want to climb up the ferrules and winding check.
Rg
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Working on the first.
Got the tiptop on and two eyes.
Then wrapped them.
Looking nice.
I don’t have a lot of patience.
I had to rewrap that first eye 3X before it looked acceptable. I hope I get better as I go because it’ll drive me nutz if I have to do a lot of extra time to get these rods built.
I’ve sold a set of them already.
So that’s good.
(https://i.postimg.cc/KRVKHSzf/6-A9-FB5-E2-D969-4-E95-8-C70-ED92886-E06-C5.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/KRVKHSzf)
(https://i.postimg.cc/G4yB07TC/778662-CE-FD76-479-B-BAE9-F46-CE2-DEDED0.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/G4yB07TC)
(https://i.postimg.cc/3yQk3X2D/CEA624-C0-C3-D0-4000-9225-9895260-ABAB9.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3yQk3X2D)
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The good news is...the Ebayer has come up with the right eyes and is sending them out tomorrow.I’ll send the others back to him. He was very helpful.
Rg
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Got the right coil guides for the Shooting Star as well as the new tip tops. The EBay seller was great to deal with. Now it’s just time and patience.
Rg
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Got the right coil guides for the Shooting Star as well as the new tip tops. The EBay seller was great to deal with. Now it’s just time and patience.
Rg
sweet.
I'm waiting for a delivery from your favorite place that charges too much shipping.
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;D
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You can add Jann’s to that list too. $9.68 worth of stuff and $8.60 shipping.
2 rolls of fly tying thread and 2 tip tops.
Rg
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Got the top section wrapped.
My neck hurts.
Lol
Some of those spirals i rewrapped 3x
But it came out nice.
(https://i.postimg.cc/4KzYrH5Z/26-F69650-C909-4-D88-A7-A1-670-BC9-AFDD16.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4KzYrH5Z)
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Got the Shooting Star all wrapped up today. New tip tops and eyes to replace the damaged eyes. Thread color is close....pretty close. Don’t think the fish will mind. Wrapped the eyes, tip top, ferrules and winding check.
Got the hook keeper, ferrules and tip top wrapped on the Midge Rod. It’s coming along nicely. What a nice little rod. Might have to go looking for one. Like I need another fly rod.
Took me a bit to get friendly with the small diameter of the silk thread, but I shook the rust off and made it work.
Rg
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Some pics when you’re finished Bob.
Please
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I will. Few more coats to the wraps to get them near original. Takes time to build up spar varnish. Not like epoxy coatings.
Rg
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I will. Few more coats to the wraps to get them near original. Takes time to build up spar varnish. Not like epoxy coatings.
Rg
Why didn’t you use epoxy?
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Not what they used when the rod was built. Typically, cane rods were, and are only coated with varnish. Works very well. Durable and strong.
Bob
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I’m betting those rods will absolutely catch fish. 😁 I’ve never casted a bamboo rod in my life and looking forward to trying it. Your work speaks for itself, Bob. I’m sure they’ll be beautiful when You’re done! Thanks again!!😎
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I’m betting those rods will absolutely catch fish. 😁 I’ve never casted a bamboo rod in my life and looking forward to trying it. Your work speaks for itself, Bob. I’m sure they’ll be beautiful when You’re done! Thanks again!!😎
Right!
Don't put any pressure on him.
;)
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Pretty hard to pressure someone my age.
Bob
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No pressure at all my friend!😎
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Got the butt section of the Midge rod wrapped this morning. Second coats on the Shooting Star. Made an adaptor for the bobber drier to slow turn the sections. The varnish is a lot thinner than any rod finish, but it still sets in 10-15 minutes. It’ll take 8-10 thin coats to build up a finish, although, those rods didn’t have a super smooth finish from the factory. They got 2-3 coats and that was it.
I’m anxious to put a reel and line on each of them to see how they cast. I’m betting that the Midge rod will cast a 4 wt line like a dream. I’ve got a Cortland Sylk 4 wt that I use on my TFO 3 pc 3 wt that should be perfect.
I’m thinking the Shooting Star will be more in the 6-8 wt range.
Rg
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pics Bob.
I'm going down to work on the eyes, etc. on the butt section after I take her to the grocery store.
I want to get it all wrapped.
Then maybe I'll lay epoxy to both sections.
I have a drier Jeff gave to me so I can rotate 2 sections drying at a time.
Works nice.
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Pics tomorrow. My son stopped by and made us Bourbon Old Fashions. Then I made Chinese dumplings.....now, I’m having one more old fashion and watching Naked Gun.
Bob
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Ok
For now
But only because it involved your son and bourbon.
8)
I got the eyes, winding check and the hook stay mounted and wound onto the butt section today. Also laid the epoxy on both sections.
The foot of largest eye was so long I decided to put two accent spirals in it. I think it looks sharp. And that hook stay came out sweet too. Jeff says I cheat without tying off the thread at each end of the hook stay but I like it and I’ve seen tons of other rods that way. So that’s what I do on my rods.
Here are a few pics of the butt section before I started laying the epoxy.
(https://i.postimg.cc/yJ2XvT5Y/43-E1-D692-AA4-D-45-AB-936-E-3-CE59-B477364.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/yJ2XvT5Y)
(https://i.postimg.cc/SXnf6Pgv/80-C1995-E-AEC1-4320-817-C-F3-D940338366.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/SXnf6Pgv)
(https://i.postimg.cc/yg9h5Z4h/8-F930206-7-BD6-46-FB-B0-FF-5-F8-F170-E0-B5-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/yg9h5Z4h)
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I’ve done them that way. The more I built the less I did.I found the minimal approach suited me better.. especially with fly rods. Lighter over all.
Bob
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I’ve done them that way. The more I built the less I did.I found the minimal approach suited me better.. especially with fly rods. Lighter over all.
Bob
Not sure I buy that they would be lighter. Same amount of wraps.
Besides, it’s only thread.
However, I do agree with your minimalist approach. Forget those crazy wraps and weaves. I have absolutely no patience or desire for that stuff. I’m doing it for another hobby and also so I can repair my own rods.
A fish doesn’t give a crap what the rod looks like or the modulus of graphite the blank was or how exotic the alloy is in the eyes.
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Doesn’t really matter on spinning and casting rods but it makes a difference in the way a fly rod casts. The better blanks I’ve used for fly rods all have titanium light wire guides and the bare minimum of wraps.Titanium doesn’t bend or wear out. At least I’ve never worn any out. Excessive thread wraps can turn a fast blank into a broom handle.
A beginner wouldn’t know the difference. Just that it’s harder to cast. After 50 years of fly fishing you start to feel the difference. I prefer a slower blank. IM-6 is my choice although I have a couple stiffer 5 and 7 wt rods. My TFO Axiom is an 8 1/2’ 5 wt and is very fast tipped. If I’m not on my game, it can be a nightmare to control. My 10’ IM-6 6 wt is a dream to cast and is actually lighter.
If you want to experiment, weigh your blank before you wrap and see how much you’ve added when you’re done. A couple ounces makes a big difference on a fly rod.
I’ve got to make a little chuck for my drier motor. To turn the sections as I get closer to the final coats. The cork I’m using let’s the blank work it’s way loose after a few minutes of turning. Back when I was building rods I had an 8’ drying box that was temperature controlled. First time I’ve missed that stuff in 10 years. Oh well, I’ll make due with what I’ve got.
Bob
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Looks great Mac. Love the colors.
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Progress pics
Winding checks
(https://i.postimg.cc/Q9DfF7MX/AB98-DED8-1-DBC-4404-83-F0-88624-E95-A605.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Q9DfF7MX)
Eye replacements and ferrules
(https://i.postimg.cc/YjpXkQVR/47433-A14-7-A62-4-AA9-99-D5-17-F4668-ABCCA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/YjpXkQVR)
Ferrules, tip tops and first eyes on the midge rod ( bottom) the new stripping guide is slightly larger than the old.
(https://i.postimg.cc/7fhmJwqT/D30-C540-A-0-D7-C-45-DD-AA89-A435-FE89-B8-D7.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/7fhmJwqT)
Midge rod tip section in process. 5 more eyes and the tip top to wrap.
(https://i.postimg.cc/343Z8HLN/14-FD2799-001-A-4643-8-B09-16227-B902-A80.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/343Z8HLN)
Coming along nicely.
Rg
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The cork I’m using let’s the blank work it’s way loose after a few minutes of turning.
Bob
wrap it with a couple thick rubber bands and then clamp it on the rubber bands.
I have the same issue unless I do this.
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nice pics - thanks Bob.
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Just made a simple collet.
(https://i.postimg.cc/0r0W0Fq9/12-F2-A75-C-88-F2-49-DD-A818-E5-FB99-A0-FA86.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/0r0W0Fq9)
Works like a charm.
Bob
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I have no clue what you guys are talking about but sure looks nice 👍
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I have no clue what you guys are talking about but sure looks nice 👍
just a way to hold on to the rod blank and turn it slowly with a motor while the finish dries......without sagging into a big drip or some sort of football looking thing.
I just took a hunk or wood dowel, drilled a hole in it and then cut some slots in it with the band saw. Put the rod ferrule in the end and tighten a hose clamp and round and round it goes. No magic....a little ingenuity maybe.
Bob
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Progress pics
Winding checks
(https://i.postimg.cc/Q9DfF7MX/AB98-DED8-1-DBC-4404-83-F0-88624-E95-A605.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Q9DfF7MX)
Eye replacements and ferrules
(https://i.postimg.cc/YjpXkQVR/47433-A14-7-A62-4-AA9-99-D5-17-F4668-ABCCA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/YjpXkQVR)
Ferrules, tip tops and first eyes on the midge rod ( bottom) the new stripping guide is slightly larger than the old.
(https://i.postimg.cc/7fhmJwqT/D30-C540-A-0-D7-C-45-DD-AA89-A435-FE89-B8-D7.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/7fhmJwqT)
Midge rod tip section in process. 5 more eyes and the tip top to wrap.
(https://i.postimg.cc/343Z8HLN/14-FD2799-001-A-4643-8-B09-16227-B902-A80.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/343Z8HLN)
Coming along nicely.
Rg
Very nice work
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Thanks. I keep thinking about how skilled the original builder was. What craftsman. These rods could be useable for more than 100 years. Made with techniques more than 100 years old.
But, I wax nostalgic.
Really I’d just like to hear of them catching fish again. I’m confident that will definitely happen. I know Larry and Josh. They’re really good fishermen. Maybe I’ll deliver them and bring my #59 with me. We can have a “Bamboo Outing”.
Rg
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Looking great, Bob!! I’ve been reading up on those old rods. Orvis has been around a long time. Amazing how many models they made. Josh and I look forward to that bamboo outing. If I can find another top section to the 8’ “Battenkill” bottom section We have ... I’ll have another rod for you to clean up. 😎
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There’s a pretty good list of Orvis bamboo rods by serial number online. Although yours don’t actually appear on the list, the serial numbers fall into specific time frames.
Orvis could probably come up with a tip section for the Battenkill. Lord knows what it would cost.
Looked at the Shooting Star this morning and it’s done except for the butt cap. The aluminum cap that was on it is pretty much destroyed with corrosion. I’d like to replace it with a cap I can turn on the lathe. I have some exotics I could use that would look pretty nice. Maybe some Mopane or Brazilian Ebony.
3 more eyes and the tip top left on the Midge Rod. When all the eyes are set on both rods I’ll give them a final coat of varnish.
I’ve really enjoyed working on these rods. I get pretty lost in the project. Kind of like fly fishing itself.
A couple of weeks ago my Son informed me that he wants to learn to fly fish and spend some time on the stream with me. We’ve fished some together but, he’s never really gotten the bug till now. Helping him learn to fish and tie flies will be priceless. It’ll be good to know where all my stuff will be going when I slip these earthly ties.
Bob
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There’s a pretty good list of Orvis bamboo rods by serial number online. Although yours don’t actually appear on the list, the serial numbers fall into specific time frames.
Orvis could probably come up with a tip section for the Battenkill. Lord knows what it would cost.
Looked at the Shooting Star this morning and it’s done except for the butt cap. The aluminum cap that was on it is pretty much destroyed with corrosion. I’d like to replace it with a cap I can turn on the lathe. I have some exotics I could use that would look pretty nice. Maybe some Mopane or Brazilian Ebony.
3 more eyes and the tip top left on the Midge Rod. When all the eyes are set on both rods I’ll give them a final coat of varnish.
I’ve really enjoyed working on these rods. I get pretty lost in the project. Kind of like fly fishing itself.
A couple of weeks ago my Son informed me that he wants to learn to fly fish and spend some time on the stream with me. We’ve fished some together but, he’s never really gotten the bug till now. Helping him learn to fish and tie flies will be priceless. It’ll be good to know where all my stuff will be going when I slip these earthly ties.
Bob
Im going to get in touch with Orvis to see how much that rod section is going to hit the wallet.😁 You can do whatever You would like to dress up that rod! Personal touches go along way!
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Creative license👍👍
Bob
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I’m happy to hear that Your son has taken an interest in fly fishing!! Good for both of You!!!
My days of bass tourney fishing with Josh as his teammate will come to a close at some point, as He has dreams of fishing bigger events. At that point, if Mom and I aren’t traveling to watch him, those bamboo rods will be getting years of use.
LIFE IS GOOD!! 😎🎣
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Creative license👍👍
Bob
yup !!!
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Finished wrapping the Midge rod. WHEW! Those last 3 eyes were .....small. But, first coat on everything now. It’s on the downhill side.
Rg
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Well, they’re done. Any more would be too much.
The Shooting Star...
(https://i.postimg.cc/5XfsfTZN/0228-B412-E6-A8-46-F6-9018-FDF36-C062584.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5XfsfTZN)
(https://i.postimg.cc/Q9Kb63WS/947-E97-E8-3-ACA-4-DDC-84-DE-6-D2-A43-A77-BBE.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Q9Kb63WS)
(https://i.postimg.cc/3krFspvk/5752-FD1-B-8523-45-DC-8-EFD-9-E955610-D6-F1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/3krFspvk)
The Midge Rod...
(https://i.postimg.cc/9R9ddYvn/0-EE2-A121-0-D68-43-CD-AFB3-DCB18-CB11411.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/9R9ddYvn)
(https://i.postimg.cc/jLcz45Ft/0-A97220-C-1474-4-B04-8-C49-D28864-CF0651.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jLcz45Ft)
(https://i.postimg.cc/2LmZ4Rd1/DE25-B7-C1-8-B72-4-E64-B6-D4-826-E0-AEDDCBA.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/2LmZ4Rd1)
I think hey came out very nice. Two very fishable rods.
Rg
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Wow, they look awesome Bob! Beautiful restoration!
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:thumbup_smilie:
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Beautiful work, indeed! They look great, Bob! Our friend is looking down, smiling, knowing that his rods are in good hands and will be on a stream in the near future!!
Thank You!
KP🎣
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Thanks,
I forgot My only artistic addition.
(https://i.postimg.cc/xkHjK9Gn/85-A83719-AEEE-4-C92-9486-15-F9-EEE8-EA52.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xkHjK9Gn)
I remembered a piece of Gaboon Ebony I’ve had for a long time. Made a replacement butt cap from it. Stuff is hard as a rock. Should last a long time.
I’ll let them set for a week or so and send them back to you Larry.
Bob
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Grrrrrr......
Effin labels I created chalked and started to lift. I used color preservative as a base coat as a recommendation from a few guys because the epoxy melts/dissolves them.
Crap!!
Jeff is making new labels and I’ll try something else.
(https://i.postimg.cc/8sbK2k1j/34-F4-B037-F42-A-417-F-BD01-F861-D6-A76-E37.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/8sbK2k1j)
(https://i.postimg.cc/hfPycFjM/518-BEF80-D77-D-408-D-B6-D8-9-B32968776-D7.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hfPycFjM)
(https://i.postimg.cc/KRq9Y93b/5-A949780-7790-4-A0-C-9656-DB3-B63-A59346.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/KRq9Y93b)
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I have to find something to put on the label to protect it enough from the epoxy that goes on as a final coat.
Jeff says he has a different color preservative that won’t chalk like that.
Damnit!
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Use an art fixative. It’s a spray that seals acrylic paintings. Very light and easy to use. Krylon makes several different finishes called Kamar Varnish.
Bob
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Custom rods are hand lettered you know :nono: :nono:
Bob
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No rush. Thanks, Bob! 😎
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Custom rods are hand lettered you know :nono: :nono:
Bob
Yea, my handwriting sux canal water.
If I did that it would ruin a perfectly good rod.
That fixative stuff ain't cheap.
At least the non-matte stuff isn't.
I bought a can from Amazon.
Jeff is making me 2 more labels to replace those but also a few extras to play with.
Thanks Bob.
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That’s why my Bride always lettered mine. She has near perfect penmanship. Mine is a cross between Mandarin, Egyptian and a doctors prescription.
Kamar goes a long way.
Bob
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(https://i.postimg.cc/WqDddtXr/E82-AE885-DC88-413-D-BB20-3-B56-E5778-D81.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WqDddtXr)
Hey Mac, these pens work pretty good for under a clear coating. We use them to label crank baits we paint, before clear coat.
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Yeah..but that assumes he knows how to write :rotflol:
They do work well. I’ve thought about signing some of my custom bobbers with them.
Bob
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Yeah..but that assumes he knows how to write :rotflol:
They do work well. I’ve thought about signing some of my custom bobbers with them.
Bob
I've said it many times............."You're a funny funny guy Bob".
But you're right.
I have tried paint pens in the past and I simply cannot write anything legible on that small diameter blank.
It comes out looking like crap.
But thanks.
The labels will work if I can get something over them to protect them until I can get a coat of epoxy over them and it dries.
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Just kidding around.
Do a test or two with blank labels . The Kamar is a lacquer and therefore has some volatile carriers. Thing is, it dries so fast that it doesn’t seem to damage anything. I have a couple different brands I’ve gotten from Hobby Lobby and Michaels. They’re all about the same.
If it doesn’t work out, you could always give the label a coat or two of polyurethane sealer. I use a water based polyurethane sanding sealer to fix the feather inlays on my bobbers. They get coated with spar varnish after that with no change. To me it’s better than any color preserver I’ve ever used in rod building.
Anyway, epoxy topcoats aren’t really aggressive. They don’t have a lot of quick evaporating carriers. They work more on a chemical reaction to form a bond. Don’t know why it would have affected your label that way.
Bob
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I started the 2nd rod. The 7.5’ medium weight. I reversed the colors on the wrap this time. I redid that tiptop 6X!!! I kept pulling the red accent wrap out. Lotta swearing and I finally got it. I think this black wrap with the red twist accent is going to look outrageous after I get the epoxy on it. I stuck the sister rod in one of the pics for comparison. My neck hurts from leaning over this thing. Time for a single malt Irish whiskey on the rocks. Should be another 2 weeks or so and they should be ready to ship.
(https://i.postimg.cc/64NRfHz8/B39-BE7-DC-5-BF5-493-D-8627-FD6-E189235-FD.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/64NRfHz8)
(https://i.postimg.cc/tnt6Shm2/E80-D75-D2-9-D56-4-CFF-BCB4-0-B1-FB5-C62-C6-A.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/tnt6Shm2)
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Just layed down the epoxy on the rod.
Almost done with it.
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The bamboo rods, that Bob put his personal touches on, are now home safe and sound!! 🙂 they are absolutely amazing. Now, I need to find a couple of reels for them.
I couldn’t have found a better person to bring the life back into those rods for Josh and I. For that, Josh and I Thank You, Bob, for taking time out of Your schedule to do this for us. The gentleman who owned them from day one, is looking down with a big smile knowing they will be put to use again.
I told Josh that the three of us need a fishing day in the near future to try them out.
Life is Good!!😎
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My pleasure!
I might just know where a couple nice older reels could be found that would match up nicely with those rods.
(https://i.postimg.cc/6yCyxcxC/04-BBA7-D8-2-DF3-4-C2-C-B8-B0-71-A8-DDBDF250.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/6yCyxcxC)
(https://i.postimg.cc/dhB3L011/5-BF1075-F-9471-49-D5-979-A-3-BF7-F8-E65781.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dhB3L011)
(https://i.postimg.cc/WdjtNZsC/F24689-F8-22-B3-475-F-B54-A-B1-ECDAAACDB0.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WdjtNZsC)
:D
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Looks like you just might know!!!😁
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I’d be happy to part with a couple of my collection for this cause. The South Bends would be a perfect match. Maybe an 1165 for the shooting star and an 1145 for the midge.
I’d be happy to let you give them a try when we get out. You just need to get a couple lines. The midge seems suited to a 4 wt and the shooting star to a 7 wt. I’d try a Cortland Sylk in WF or DT.
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I’ll provide a couple furled leaders to match. They fit the bill.
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Thanks, Bob!!