Has anyone built on the matrix line from AMTAK yet? I am interested in the rod for sure but what about the casting handles? I have heard the quality may leave a little bit to be desired .... is this true. I may still order one just to see for myself because a picture doesn't always do things justice.

I am looking to build a 7'crankbait/walleye rod and wouldn't mind trying out a new look.

The blanks I received are very good quality. No complaints on my end. And they're surprisingly crisp and light.

I have no used nor actually seen the matrix handles in person. I'm sure they'll be tons of them in Charlotte for the National Rod Builders Show.

.......

Right now the handles are 'backordered' direct from American Tackle. In fact the rod blanks that I wanted are also now on backorder (843's 844's). As I usually do I told them "ship when available". I ordered 6 they had one which they are shipping to me. I only needed one as a "presentation" rod - the others I'll keep in the shop as I try to keep my own small stock of parts. --- See Tom Kirkman's editorial in the latest RodMaker. I decided to have what I needed on hand (within reason).

Thanks Tom and Ken,

I will probably just place my order for a half dozen blanks then and just one handle kit to check it out. Thanks for the mini review of the blanks Tom, I'm sure it goes without saying but your opinion was all I needed. By the way, I just received the two back issues and my first issue of my subscription of Rodmaker, and I LOVE it. We are about to get knee deep in snow here so it's perfect timing for me to try some new things.

Ken, someone should outlaw the word "backorder"! I know these vendors/manufacturers will sell whatever they can if they have it but the fact that you heard the rods are backordered just adds to the grief of the Titan guides not being available yet either (could be by now, not sure). I am hoping to build a full Matrix rod/handle w/ Titan guides as a Silent @#$%& donation for the local walleye club.... maybe I'll just send them a picture of what it will look like in 2006!

Thanks again.

Andrew -- What you propose is exactly what I did. I ordered 10 blanks and one reel seat. I'm confidant that the rod blanks will be good (and will sell - especially after I make my "donation rod for the Marland Saltwater Sportfishing Association). As for "backorder" --- well I try to keep blanks, guides, reel seats on hand locally so 1/ no one has to wonder what the components look like and 2/ I don't have to tell people "it's on order". And no - the Titans are not available yet - or haven't started shipping. The other blanks that American Tackle is offering - the Elite series in dark blue should also be very nice - but they're a bit pricey for me to keep many on hand - although I have some of those or order as well.

Ken,

I'm still on the small side of the business but I try to buy an extra blank or two everytime I place an order. I'm getting there, need to stock up on more guides though. I was really hoping to buy a dozen or so sets of the Titans before the end of the year as my next several projects are already planned for them ... hopefully they are out sooner than later.

I have one of the Elite blanks already, just a 6'6" spinning AESP782-2 for my brother. It is a very nice looking/feeling blank and I'm looking forward to building it in the next couple of weeks. They are pretty proud of them though price wise.

please let me know what you think when you get that Matrix handle kit.

Any feedback on the fly blanks? I'm intrigued by some that I've been seeing on @#$%& for next to nothing....