I have found a couple things that help me build rods that I'd like to share and receive any feedback if someone sees a problem with it before I experience said problem.

1. I use surgical scalpels for cutting thread. I find them to be much sharper than razor blades or exacto blades. #11 disposable blades work well for me. I get them off the internet.

2. I live in a cold climate and my wife and I seem to think it is a game to see how cold we can keep our house in the winter. Epoxy stays pretty thick and difficult to use in our house. My solution is to take a full can of soda/ coke/ pop and warm it in tap water to what I approximate to be 80-90 degrees F. I then thoroughly dry it and wipe the bottom side clean with alcohol. When dry I mix the epoxy on the bottom and apply it. It keeps it at a warm useable temperature.

I look at this site frequently and know that I can find solutions to a problem or find new ideas for a build. Thanks to everyone!

Scott,
I am a X-Rgistered Nurse and have been using a #10 or 11 blades for a long time and I agree with you.............I also like my finish to stay warm and since I am cheap I use a 50 cal ammo box and a twenty watt buld for heat..............Keeps it just about right for me..............

Big John
Rio Hondo, Texas
Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting

Scott...

The surgical knife with number 11 blades is a mainstay for me, too.

In addition to cutting thread it's an excellent tool for removing old wraps (or bad ones that are going to be re-done). The pointed end slips under the old wraps allowing you to quickly and neatly peel away the old finish.

I've also used this tool on countless other projects (cutting fly tying materials, popper making, leader making, etc.)

An excellent general purpose tool.

Regards,

Vance

I use them too. Awesome tool. Just remember what they were originally designed for, to cut through skin!!! Which they do very easily, safety first!!!

Bill in WV

I ordered some "Extra-Keen" razor blades from McMastercarr, and I can't imagine anything being sharper than those. They like to cut whole wraps off, even if you don't want to.