Being that I am just getting into the Rod Building scene, I am looking into purchasing the equiptment to get me started. Would you suggest a Power Wrap or a Hand Wrapper? Wasnt sure if one was easier to learn on to start...

Just starting??? Some may disagree but I would say, hand wrapper!! At least until you learn the ins and outs of wrapping and packing.

Bill in WV

ditto

Check the buy sell page

Bill - willierods.com

I would also suggest a hand wrapper even though I have never used a power wrapper. A hand wrapper can be simple or really elaborate.

Handwrapper. After about 20 years, I still prefer a handwrapper. Have a power wrapper that has never had thread on it> I would recommend starting with a hand wrapper and learning whether you want a power wrapper and, if so, what kind. IMO, power doesn't make it any better, just a little faster

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/04/2009 03:34PM by Mike Barkley.

My vote is for the hand wrapper to start.

I use the power wrapper to wrap long underwraps but disconnect the belt to use as a hand wrapper otherwise. JMHO C2

I have a rodSmith and a Renzetti Inc. I use them mostly for under wrapping and sanding cork. when it comes to guide wrapping. I generally do it by hand. There is a whole new learning curve when you hand power wrap.

Good Wraps Bob

Hand wrapper fo sho.
I have one of both. I use the power wrapper for wrapping guides and rying but the hand wrapper for butt wraps.

Any suggestions on which one to buy, would rather buy than build my own... I will go with a hand wrapper. I figure I will get the drying motor as well

Hand wrapper, no doubt. I highly recommend the Sully Wrapper ... look at MudHole, vendor on left.

Mudhole (and other suppliers) offer a Flex Coat "kit" of sorts with a hand wrapper and dryer motor.

There was a gentleman at the ICRBE that had some awesome hand wrappers. One was given away at the reception. Maybe Tom can provide his contact info.

Bill in WV

I built my own. But if a power wrapper is able to be used with out the motor, or as a hand wrapper. ?? This way you have a power wrapper when you want to use it, and a hand wrapper to start with.

Bill - willierods.com

Jay,
If you have the visibility to know if you are really interested in rod building and believe that you really have the ability and desire and means to build a lot of rods, it could make a lot of sense to start right off with a power wrapper.
Start all of your wrapper with a power wrapper and then you don't have to change any habits if you start with hand wrapping.

If you have a well designed power wrapper with very good low speed control, wrapping is a joy and virtually free of hand or wrist fatigue.

If you don't have one of the above mentioned attributes, then it is better to start with a hand wrapper.

As a matter of fact, if you want, all you really need is a cardboard box with v's cut in each end to support the blank and a telephone book to run the thread through to put tension on the thread. Wrap up a few rods this way, and if you find you like it, you can start buying what you might need.

Take care
Roger

p.s.
As I mention above, it is very inexpensive to start rod building. It can, however get very expensive if you decide to go into large volume and or need high speed for rod building.

Jay; I think the wrapper that William Bartlett is talking about is the Ecowrapper by Clyde Alho.I have a Rod smith power wrapper,also two hand wrappers.I found out after having a power wrapper that I like hand wrapping the best.Have heard about the Ecowrapper,and just orderd one Monday.I liked the reviews and I like standing when I wrap so I'm thinking this one will serve the perpose.If you would like to check this out email me and I'll give you his link.Your email is hidden.<<<<DON>>>>

Thanks Don,

That's exactly what I was talking about!!

Bill in WV

Hey guys checked out the Eco Wrapper System (hand wrap with dryer motor)... Looks like a great system for me... Found it I think for $212, if you guys reccommend this unit I think I will go this direction, has alot of nice features and is easy to use...

Don email me at royalss9@yahoo.com

Jay,

It's quite a neat unit. Clyde brings them to the Expo each year and sells out. They've been very well designed and are quite well made. Clyde is a sponsor, you can visit him via his link (The Rod Shop) to the left.

..............