I have a client that I am preparing to order components for an RS IST1562F 2PC 13' Steelhead rod build.

I hope that many of you (who have been quite helpful in the past) could comment on several of the suggestions that I have made as well as the ideas that he has proposed.

1. Handle assembly. He desires a traditional BC/Spey style grip with a fixed anodized aluminum uplocking reelseat. He prefers a shorter aft grip and longer fore grip. My question (forget about balance when answering this) is what is the typical length when turning this style? What do you prefer and why? What cork form/pattern is your preference and why?

I was thinking between 4-8" for the aft and 10-12" for the foregrip. The aft grip will have an integrated rubberized cork fighting butt as part of this length.

2. Guides. We have discussed three different setups. Halo spinning guides from Pac Bay, Halo and recoils, and all REC recoils.

I suggested that we could go with a stripper and two more guides as Halo's on the butt section of the 2 pc. Then on the tip section, where weight matters most, go with recoils and finish with a guide as a top.

Although this may be unconventional for the masses. I've seen this utilized and seems to work well in maintaining good line flow and preserving the action of the blank without excess weight from the conventional guides on the tip section.

Or (I feel as the best option) go straight REC's. I don't like the idea of the Halo's as the lone guide for the entire length. They seem to be heavy, maybe even heavier than traditional fuji high framed spinning guides. And my ultimate desire is to preserve the action of this RS blank. It is extremely nice and is currently my favorite.

Any thoughts would be most appreciated!

One way or another...this rod is going to be a masterpeice. I wouldn't have it any other way for the client or myself as the builder.

Domenic Federico
Infinity Rod Creations

If you want a masterpiece use the halo guides and email Picaso! If you are looking for performance use the Recoils or a set of
S.F. titanium SiC guides through out. IMHO.

Raymond Adams
Eventually, all things merge, and a river runs through it..