I just came from the photos area of this forum. Absolutely great-very informative! Alot of beautiful work!. I'm new to this hobby and haven't started my first fly rod yet but I have seen discussions regarding the poor quality of cork available. Now-in the photos area-I see that some of you turn your handles out of wood. This really interests me. Other than weight are there any disadvantages to using wood.
Thanks
Dave

Dave, even weight isn't a disadvantage - the weight difference is negligible (in my opinion anyway).

As an alternative to the generally poor quality of cork, you might want to try Andy Dear's exotic burl cork. The consistency is amazing and it's actually easier to turn than regular cork since there aren't any voids in it. Go the the Lamar Reel Seats link on the left and take a look at it. You'll also see a lot of it in the photo section.

Hi Dave,

Personally, I don't see any disadvantage. I don't build a lot of fly rods , but use at least a combination of wood/cork on 90% of my rods. IMO, wood is much more durable, comfortable, better looking, more sensitive and consistant in quality. If weight is a problem, you can stay away from the heavier, dense woods or bore them out and fill with cheap cork.

Like Gerry said, Andy's exotic cork is amazing and looks very good when used with wood.
This is definately the place to get info on the subject. Try do a search and just type in wood and you will get a ton of info. If you want to see what the "Master" does, check out the Classic Custom Wood site on the left. Most of us can only dream..............

Mike

I have progressed from cork grips to wood/cork combinations and currently am focused on all wood grips. I have found that the grip shape is more important for maintaining a firm grasp on a rod than is the material used in the grip. Wood can be obtained in a variety of weights and is much more flexible in color and figuration than cork in forming grips as well as being more readily available in good quality. Cork has been the material of choice for several decades but I remember seeing high end bamboo rods with walnut grips in the 40's and 50's. I frankly see no disadvantage in choosing wood other than using something that is dfferent from the traditional cork.

Stan Grace
Helena, MT
"Our best is none too good"

Biggest advantage to cork is in cold weather; nothing worse than freezing hands when you're already cold to begin with. Cork really helps out in that situation.

Cork also has a bit of 'give' to it and seems more comfortable to my hands.

Putter
Williston, ND