Searching for my next winter project.I want to build myself a fast action
8'6" or preferably 9' 3wt. I have fairly well narrowed my blank search down to Dancrafts' 8'6"FT863-4 and Rainshadows 9' RX-8 2pc.
what are your opinions on these blanks and anybody have any other
blanks that that I should look at? I would like to stay under 125.00 for my blank.
Thanks Randy.

Randy,
If you wanted an excellent value choice for performance, consider the St. Croix SCIII 3F903. I know it's moderate-fast action if you could live with that and be considerably within your allowed budget by nearly half the cost. These are domestically produced in U.S.A. also.

For the import besides the Rainshadow which is faster action than the ATC Matrix, consider the model AMF903 woven twill graphite blank from American Tackle. It's also moderate fast, but unbeatable value. I can't get over the good pricing on these for what you get. Really attractive finish and function.

Rich Garbowski
Richard's Rod & Reel
Distributor St. Croix blanks
American Tackle Blanks and Components
info@rodreel.com
807-486-0514

Randy,

We also have a medium fast action 9'0" 2pc 3wt Signature III you may like!

Dan

Randy , Dans blanks are great , and I also have an IM6 9'0" 3wt that I got from Hook & Hackle that is a nice little rod . If you buy it online as a kit or just the blank it is very reasonibly priced also . Have fun, John

Randy Miller wrote:

>Searching for my next winter project.I want to build myself a
>fast action 8'6" or preferably 9' 3wt. I have fairly well narrowed
>my blank search down to Dancrafts' 8'6"FT863-4

I'm flat out biased towards the FT863-4. I built this rod for a trip to Idaho this past September (and again later this month) and I doubt you can find a better rod. It handled lines 3, 4, & 5 outstandingly.

>I would like to stay under 125.00 for my blank.

I used the alconite guides (from Dan also) and a fuji dps16 reel seat
and the total cost will be under your target for the blank.