Hi Everyone,

I was just looking through the photo page and ran across this post:

[www.rodbuilding.org]

I was looking at using this material on my next project, which will be a cobia rod built on one of the Batson Live Bait series of rods (thanks for the heads up, Doc). I understand how the material works and have heard some really good things about it. I understand how I can do a transition between the materal and a butt cap/gimball, front and rear of a reel seat, etc. But what has me scratching my head is what kind of transition to do on the front of the fore-grip.

Anyone that has worked with this material and has any ideas I would appreciate it. Also, even if you just simply have some pointers or tips to make life easier I would really appreciate it.

Thanks, Jeff

Jeff, I have used the nu-skin Rod Armor and Amtaks X-tube and what I have done in front of the foregrip is to shape a cork ring or 2 so it tapers down toward the blank. Shrink the Grip material over it, then wrap with thread up onto the grip material and epoxy.

Tony

Jeff - tony's right, but remember to leave the shrink-tube section just a little long 1/8" to 1/4", depending on the length of the foregip taper, to allow for the fact that the tube shrinks end-to-end as well as across the diameter.

Uncle Russ
Calico Creek Rods

I do a Black thread and epoxy ramp

Jeff,
I've used the Rod Armor quite a bit in the last three years, and while I'm no expert, I'll give you a few ideas on what I've learned. I prefer to use it over something like cork tape or turned down EVA rather than right on the blank. It will slip some unless you epoxy it on the bare blank. That's too messy for my tastes so I usually go with cork tape under.

When shrinking it, go slow and line up the X's as you go to the rod guide line-of-sight. This will give you a much more professional look.

As far as the foregrip transition goes, I've used thread ramps, etc., but recently started using EVA, cork, or whatever you like, and don't apply the Rod Armor at all on the foregrip. It's a nice contrast in materials, and something to consider. On my longer surf rods you can overpower the look of the rod with all Rod Armor (just my opinion).

Lastly, I roll-up the edges near the reel seat, butt cap, or anywhere that I "flush-cut" the Rod Armor (after it's shrunk) and apply a thin coat of finish, then roll them back down,,,,,it keeps them from sliding away from whatever the're butted up against when you start using the rod. Can't wait to see some pic's as I really enjoy looking at your work.

Bruce



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/28/2007 06:54PM by Bruce Wetzel.

Thanks so much for the help, Bruce and everyone. I'll keep you all "posted" on my progress. Thanks very much.
Jeff