On the last several rods I've done I've started only putting finish on the guide wrap and not overlapping it onto the guide. I do fill guide tunnels and don't use CP (so I should be getting good thread saturation). I'm curious if there are any real risks on light-medium tackle freashwater rods with not having the finish lap onto the blank. I haven't had a problem with my previous rods yet, but after looking at the photos section, I feel that most folks lap their finish. Any info would help. Thanks.

There are a few builders who don't put it out onto the blank. Personally, I do believe it gives just a bit better protection to that last thread to lap it out (BARELY) onto the blank so that's the way that I do it.

Putter
Williston, ND

It also seals the thread and keeps water out from going under the thread

The only time anyone will notice anything like this, is when teh photos are posted on teh internet. Even at rod shows & seminars, nobody really looks that close at a rod, so it really doesnt' make too much of a difference if the epoxy goes onto the blank as far as how it looks. I feel fully encapsulating the thread at each end prevents water from getting in, but I've never tried any other way, nor will I - it's too easy to slop it on and get a perfectly straight edge at teh end of the wrap.

I extend the finish onto the blank with my final coat, whether this is the first (only) coat or the sixth. I also believe this helps to keep water away from the wraps. Ralph

If at first you don't succeed, go fishing, then try, try again.