Hi folks. I've been lurking and reading up on the library, as well as the posts. I'm about to start on my very first build. I hope to find most of the answers to my questions already posted. However, I'm wondering what tools I really NEED and if there's any advice you can contribute?

I'm starting with an Amtack Matrix 5.6" spinning blank with Fuji Alconite guides. I've noticed that many of the folks on here recommend using smaller guides and tip tops. I plan on utilizing the New Guide Concept but have a hard time finding anything smaller than a 7 in many of the different guides. I plan on fishing rainbow and brown trout and want something that wiil be smooth and forgiving.

Thanks in advance.

Anton,

Good blank choice! If you are going with Alconites (good chioce) I would go with a 20 (maybe 25 depending on your reel)and a 12 BYAG's and finish up with #6J (probably 4)BLAG's. I would order a 10 and 8 BYAG also and let your layout per the New Concept article in the library above and a static distribution test make the final decision for you.
Can't think, off hand, of any tools that you HAVE to have to start but I'm sure others will jump in. There are a lot of things that will make life easier but you've already found the most important one - This Forum!!!


Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

For the smaller guides like 6's I'd use BLAG6J. Many sponsors on this board will have them.

Anson,
If you havn't got any books yet the "Rod-Building Guide by Tom Kirkman
is a must have.

Razor blades (double edged prefered), sand paper, masking tape ( 1/4in and 2in. wide)
pencils, a metel file (for filing guide feet ), sharp sissors, paper towels & Isopropyl
alcohol, tin foil and little plastic cups.

These are the things I can think of off hand you can't do without. Like Mike B. said,
there are many things that will make certian things much easier but the list above
are must haves.

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

Pills from the shrink!! You have been severely afflicted by the most serious of obsessive/compulsive dissorders. Absolutely required to permit you to sleep a few minutes while wrapping and collecting toys.

Here is a pic of some odds and ends that come in handy, check out the rest of my gallery for other homemade fixtures and devices that aid building

[www.rodbuilding.org]