I'm about to start on my first rod which will be a 20-50# saltwater boat rod. I'd like to do a spiral wrap. Is this inadvisable for my first project?

Thanks,

Rusty Hodnett

Not at all; only difference will be eyeballing/placing the transition guides from a normal rod building chore.

Go nuts! I can never understand why someone would shortchange their abilities, and not make what they want right off the gitgo. I transcend to a higher level everyday just by thinking I may possibly be capable of something, someday. Maybe. Levi

Now for the really stupid question: How do gimbals fasten to the end of the blank? Does the blank fit into the gimbal, or vice -versa? I've watched Ken Preston's DVD, but I don't remember anything about the butt. He showed how to fit the grip, sliding it all the way to the end of the blank, but nothing on the butt. It seems reasonable that the blank should fit into the gimbal. Assuming this is the case, should I leave enough blank exposed for the gimbal, or push the grip all the way and then trim to accept the gimbal? My blank butt OD is 1.025". Should I sand/file this to fit a 1" ID gimbal, or shim it to fit a somewhat larger ID? Any advice is GREATLY appreciated.

Rusty Hodnett

If you are going to use a spiral wrap then you really don't need a gimbel. IMO.

The blank fits into the Gimbel. You may need to shim the blank in the same fashion you do the reel seat. That's the last thing I do so I am able to chuck the blank in the lathe without marring anything.