Alex ¾ oz is about right for the threaded bumper and insert. I only recommend using the bumper if you intend to use the full balance system, or if the ¾ oz will give you the feel that you are looking for, there are lighter ways to end a grip. I have a couple of rods with just the bumper and they feel great, but generally on lighter rods I use a rubberized cork butt ring. I am in the process of changing over to carbon skinned grips so I will probably use an EVA butt ring if I am not using the balance kit. If I was having new parts tooled I might design a system with an aluminum or plastic insert and bumper, it does make an attractive and functional butt cap.

Chris,

I'm not upset. I actually enjoy these intelectual discussions.

I also get your 'point' but I believe it's just wrong from a physics standpoint. You speak of the 'feel', but that is just a personal perception.

Adjusting the reel forward is fine, up to a point, but moving the reel forward will eventually shorten the useable length of the rod, and for many that long rod length is sort of the point of building the rod in the first place.

If you have to add weight to get your rod to hold in a static 'balanced' point at, say, 10 o'clock, you still have to 'hold up' that weight. You'll need 'more weight' to get the rod to this point than you would if you did the 'level' balance thing. Remember that the fulcrum in this lever senario is YOU. While the rod may 'feel' lighter in that one position, it isn't actually lighter, it's heavier than it has to be. Every time you move it, cast it, fight a fish with it, you have to start, stop, and manage that extra weight. Even an extra 1/2 ounce will be very noticable at the end of a long day.

Remeber that EVERY rod will static balance at exactly 12 o'clock, why not just hold the rod directly vertical and lose all that added weight?

I know that this whole 'balance' thing sounds seductive. It's the sirens song luring your best efforts onto the rocks of fantasy. It's just not possible.

Weigth robs sensitivity, degrades performance, raises fatigue.

Build it light. It will fish better that way EVERY time.

I'm still waiting for any evidience that it's possible to have 'balance' in a fishing rod while it's being used.

Buddy

For those that subscribe to RodMaker - read my article on this subject - for those that don't subscribe, listen to Buddy. However, if a client insists on a balanced rod - do it. I mean use the Do-It mold I designed (RBW-6-112). It will make weights for balancing that fit exactly in the butt of the rod and make the process simple.

Rich, what issue is that in?

AC
FishinFreaks
Rogers, MN

V6 #6 p18

Buddy,
I think we agree on more here than we disagree on. A horse can only get so dead. I am a little disappointed that you didn't show more interest in my comments about catching some excellent Springtime Santee Bass. Now theres a subject worthy of lengthy discussion. Going back to work tomorrow after 9 days off-even with way too much wind and the expected cold front-still got'm good. Back on the subject of "Feel"
I sure had a good one fool me the other day on the blade. Never knew he was there until it was too late. My rod must not have been balanced properly!!!!!!!!! LOL

Good Fishin' To Ya, Chris

Chris,

I know we agree on the fishing part.

I've not been for a couple of months, and the fishing is fantastic all around me right now.

Unfortunitly, this is also my 'busy season' for work, so little chance of getting out for another month or two.

Then, I'll get my share.

By the way, on the spinnerbait thing...try a heavier bait. I know it sounds odd, but you'll 'feel' more with a 3/4 ounce blade than you will with a 3/8 ounce one. The fish won't care (size is the same).

Catch a bunch.

Buddy