I am building my first rod using a Bellinger uplocking real seat. The model is an HK8S from Angler's Workshop. The nickle/silver butt cap appears to be threaded but the mating piece does not have threads. The cap has a loose fit. Should the cap be epoxied in place or is there something wrong with the real seat?

Fred

Fred,

Yes, epoxy the butt cap to the threaded metal lock down screw barrell. Be careful to look at the barrell closely. One end is completely threaded to the end, and other end has about a 64th inch where the threads do not continue. Epoxy (or use the adhesive of your choice) the cap to the completely threaded end and insert the wood into the other end and Epoxy (or use the adhesive of your choice). The reason the threads do not continue to the end that is attached to the wood is, it keeps the lock down from riding onto the wood and messing it up. Don't forget to put all the parts together in the proper order, i.e., from the rear, lock down screw (before you glue the rear cap on), rear hood (facing the right direction, and the the front hood facing the right direction. Hope this has helped you somewhat. Good luck.

Rick Case
RodsByRick