Help! Just got a new Sage blank and in removing it from the package, a staple scratched it about 6 inches on the butt section. It took the gloss off and went into the blank. Tried putting a light coat of Speed Coat rod finish over it, but it just glosses over the scratch. Anyone have an idea on how to rub it out?

if it cut through the paint then there's not much you can do about it. I am assuming that Sage still paints their blanks?

Will the handle cover it?

The grip or reel seat won't cover it. It is a brown Sage blank that I am going to try and rub a brown permanet marker or acrylic paint over it and then just put a light coat of rod gloss on it with my finger to cover the paint. Before I do this will wait to see if anyone has a better solution.

Maybe you can disguise it by applying a decal or logo over the scratch and cover it with clear coat. Even some thread art may hide it, or possibly writing a name or description of the rod. Hope this helps.

I'd call Sage & tell them what happened - - they might just be willing to replace the blank for you.