Based on my last Q, it doesn't seem like too many have used this seat. For those who have used it, can you tell me if I can build the rod to be uplocking, or do I have to build it downlocking. Can I put the reel seat on the end of the blank, or would I have to put it onto the extention piece/butt grip side of the contraption?

I'm looking to make a GUSA SW70H, 70HP or a 70Monster Mag into a Florida bottom fishing rod for the Tortuga's to be used with a Diawa Saltiga 40. HAs anyone use this particular blank, or any other GUSA's for this fishing. My one trip I used an 80 Monster, and thought it was perfect, am I going in the right direction with the slightly lighter rod, or should I stick with the Monster?

Thanx

I believe ferruled reel seats are typically used in a downlocking assembly, but I don't see any reason why you couldn't use it uplocking also. The extension with the rear grip on it would be attached to the ferrule in an uplocking configuration. If you do it uplocking then the reel seat would be attached to the end of the blank.

Nathan

Duh. That's a pretty good point, way past common sense. I'll stop being cheap & just buy a seat and figure it out when I get it. lol. My quest to have one of every component continues, lol.

I've used the Fuji Ferruled seat but only with Calstars. 1 was a 3 piece 700XL spinning rod, the next was a 3 piece 700M conventional rod and the last one was a CT-198-6' that I extended to 8' using the seat to add an extension. All were up locking with the ferrule on the bottom. Hope that helps!
PS-Thanks for the words of advice, Billy

No problem Jim, I hope you're able to do that, you earn it! I'll be making a GUSA 20-40 or 30-60 2-piece rod for travel (I only "travel" once per year, but it's an excuse for a new rod + a new technique).

When will you be traveling West? Remember, 2006 is the year the rod building community come to SoCal!

I know, I've gotta see what my wallet lets me do. I'm going to the Charlotte Show this year. I think if I went West I wouldn't want to come home though, lol.

Coincidence - I'm placing an order for GUSA blanks, and am e-mailing a bunch of guys prices, letting them know about the new GUSA's available, etc - one of the guys is looking for a 15wt fly blank for BFT, and the new Predator Lite for a spinning rod. He just posted on the board he recieved a FedEx with a Predator wrapped by none other then you. lol. SMall world.