I have just about completed a fly rod and have noticed a hairline crack in the timber insert, I have sanded it with 600 wet & dry but it is still visible, any suggestions to get rid of same before I gloss it would be appreciated.

Regards

Owen

I wish I had a suggestion. If the insert is already glued to the rod with epoxy I don't think there is anyway to actually close the crack. I have exactly the same situation. If I had noticed it before glue up it would have been a simple matter to put some wood glue in the crack and close it up by clamping. But since it is on the rod and there is hardened epoxy in the crack it is glued open forever.

are you talking about the wood insert for the reel seat? how about wood filler??? usually in a putty form, sometimes looks like a crayola crayon, might work. i have never done this and it's been years since i've worked with wood.

eric
fresno, ca.

Thanks guys, will try the wood putty and then sand back, will advise how I get on.

Tighter Lines


Owen

keep in mind, i'm not recommending, just suggesting. i've never done this myself. i imagine afterwards you'll have to treat the wood somehow, make it match the glass/sheen and sealing characteristics of the original area. good luck, let us know what you decide to do and how it worked.

eric
fresno, ca.

IF, you have some of the same wood, you can make your own "putty". Take a piece of the same species and sand it, collecting the sanding dust. Mix the dust with wood glue to make a putty and work it into the crack. allow to dry and sand and finish. You will get a better match than trying most premade putties.