How far from the butt end of the blank should a preformed cork grip fit when doing a dry fit before you epoxy to the blank? This is my first try with preformed grips. The grip is 7inches. Thanks.

You want it snug, but you do not want it too tight where it may split.

Hey Roger,

It should fit in the place it is intended to go. If it is a fly rod, it should snug down all the way to the reel seat. If it is a bait caster or spinning rod then all the way to the end of the blank, (again snuggly around the blank). I have never had a preformed grip fit good without some reaming. Do you have a reamer?

Thanks Scott and Harold. Yes, I have dream reamers. First time using them.

Don't foget to fit the butt cap, button, or whatever you've going to use, as well, to make sure the tennon is long enough to fill the cap. Any change in the tennon length might affect the placement of the preformed grip.

Uncle Russ
Calico Creek Rods

I'd make sure it dry slides to within 1/2 inch of where you intend it to reside. Cork won't stretch like EVA - it'll split if you force it.

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