I have seen some rods where the cork rings in the handle are replaced by graphtie rings. Have any of you guys seen this? Where can I get those graphite rings to place in between the cork rings?

thanks,

Joe,
They may not be graphite rings, they are probably graphite tube that is arbored and spaced between the cork rings. Lamiglas has came out with some tubes in different colors. The post was about a week ago, and there were a few picture posted. The fastest way to find it would be to use the search function, author, Todd Vivian, and it should be pretty close to the top of his list.
There is also a graphite tube used in Tennessee handles that will also work. Custom Tackle, Angler's Workshop, and I'm sure other sponsors carry it.

I use jumbo size graphite arbors just like you would use under a reel seat. The size is GA30. They are 1.16 inches in diameter and 1.0 inches in length. I cut them in half to make them 1/2 inches long and glue them up along with my cork. It works great! I use them in Tennessee handles where you would tape the reel as well as on casting and spinning rods wehre your hand contacts the handle. I think that they transmit vibration better than cork. Mud Hole Tackle is a sponsor that carrys them. The picture is of the first rod I ever built, a Tennessee Handle spinning rod with graphite arbor inlays. The durability is better than what you would think.

[www.rodbuilding.org]

Jerry Chambers
J. C. Custom

What do you think about the arbors for the handle and then flocking it, might be sensitive and comfortable.