When trying to grind a knurled winding check to fit I destroyed the piece with my rotary tool. What do most of you use to resize the winding checks? What attachment to rotary tool? Thanks in advance.

Brent Shelton

Mic the blank and order one that fits.

I was sent one that I was told "fits this blank" along with the reel seat and cork handle. Of course, I should have know better.

B. Shelton

Brent,
I also use nickel silver winding checks on my fly rods, and like to size them myself. My practice has been to get the blank first then measure for a winding check. When I purchase one, it is my preference to get one that is larger than the diameter of the blank. I do this because I like to have a cushion of thread or just epoxy between the NS winding check and the blank. If the blank flexes that far down the blank, I don't want the winding check cutting into the blank. This practice was passed down by a friend who had a rod break off cleanly right at the ring. It was the impression of the blank manufacturer that his ring, fit exactly to the diameter of the blank, cut into the rod.

When I wrap thread back against the cork grip, size A thread adds about 15/1000 to the blank diameter.

I hope this helps. If you want a copy of a chart I created for myself send me an email and I'll send it to you (Excel format).

Jeff Shafer

I don't even think about winding checks until the handles and reel seat are firmly in place, and then it's hand fit only. There is almost no way to perfectly size a winding check until you determine the absolute location. When I do buy winding checks for rods not yet built, I always buy over & undersized checks to cover all of the bases.
Good luck

I have used ' toe rings " sounds dumb but they are easy to work with. Soft and can be shaped to fit most any blank. Or just buy several of each size and have them in stock

If a winding check is slightly undersized they can be expanded using a punch or mandrel with a long taper. Place the winding check over the tool and position it until it is snug. Using a hardwood block or similar sleeve bored to fit loosely over the tool and up against the winding check tap it lightly to expand the winding check. This system of expansion when used judiciously can be of help.

Thanks for all the help! I truly appreciate it.

Brent Shelton