This may not be new to some but here's a tip that may help a new rod builder. I have noticed a few posts that mention the thread puller breaking when wrapping giudes. Try a piece of fire line. 6 lb test---2 lb diameter (or less after a full year of using the same puller). I'm sure others have tried this but it pulls through 7 to 10 overwraps like butter, never breaking. I always use at least 7 over wraps. When the over wrap is complete, pull until the thread just starts to go under, stop, cut, then continue pulling the fire line. Leaves no fuzzies to trim up later. One thing--- you'll know if the tension it too tight because that fire line will rip through your finger like butter also. Hope this helps someone.

Great stuff. Bought a spool of it in 1998 and still have some left. I wind up losing the pullers before I ever wear them out. I have not had one break (yet).

Lou

Doesn't the finish on the line get in your wraps? Just asking, that's one of the reasons I've never tried it.

Guys,
I am pretty sure that the Fire Line has a waxy stuff on it that can really mess with your coatings. It may be best to stick with something like the Spider Wire that doesn't feel waxy and from what I have noticed the 8-40 is not as smooth a braid as some of your smaller diameters.


Tight wraps and lines,
Wylie

I never had any problems using the Fire Line but can see where there may be an issue regarding wax & finish. Maybe it wasn't such a good tip. I know the particular piece I have been using is over a yr old & could be that the waxy finish wore off. Again, I've never had problems with the finish but may look into the Spider Wire. Thanks for pointing this out, Jim

Yes, it is way better to use older braid that has worn in. Not only do you dispense with any waxy coating problems, it also lays thinner under the wraps and pulls through easier. I use 4 lb Fireline, and knot a big yellow bead on the end so I can find it ( doesn't always work, so I make 3 or 4 ).

Jim
I have been using Fire Line for about 3 to 4 years and have not had any problem with the finish.

I use 4lb to 8lb test Fire Line depending on thread size I’m wrapping with, and glue it to a Chartreuse “Lil’ Corky” bobber. They are easy to find on the workbench and are very light.

Lynn Williams

4 lbs. fire line is great. Slick and strong, it is all I use and I have had no problems.