I would like to build myself a few new sticks, I have built on loomis and st.croix but I would like to try something different. I am looking for a one piece flippin stick around 7'2" to 7'4" similar in action to the st.croix AC73MHF but lighter weight. any recommendations?

I built myself a super light weight flippin stick. I started with the Batson RX8+C865 7"2 the blank weights 2.5 onces. You can not find a lighter weight blank with the amount of power this blank has. I used titanium AT guides single foot as my main guides and fuji titan fly guides to save weight, a modified fuji handle something like a rich forhan light modification. Sumo glue instead of epoxy and one light coat of finish to make the reel seat lighter. The finished rod weight 3.6 ozs I'm pretty sure this is the weight of Kistler's lightest power rod.. I feel bad for them LOL.

Take a look at the Lamiglas XMG LMB864 ... it just might be what the doctor ordered. You could call Bob McKamey at Custom Tackle - he carries both the Batson lineup and the Lamiglas XMG series. I have the Lamiglas and it works VERY well, it is responsive and light.

I agree with Henry on the Blank, using 8mm striper guide then 5mm - 4mm -then 3mm guides to the tip to further lighten it up some, and shift the balance point a little further back.
8mm double ft Alps and an Alps tip with the rest being single foot guides
no fore grip and a carbon fiber split grip, with exposed blank reel seat.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/07/2008 12:25AM by Steve Gardner.

Trevor, are you talking about flipping or pitching? Most would want a longer stick for flipping.

the construction of the rod is not a problem, I think we all look forward to the challenge of building a light rod but I am more interested in a different blank, the Canadian market is limited to the usual suspects, Loomis and St.croix. I have never seen a Kistler, seeker, Lamiglass.....etc. just looking for sugestions for something different.

Chuck, yes I am looking for a pitching rod.