I want to start building rods and need to order the stuff to do it with. I would like to start off with a hand wrapper. Is the flexcoat the way to go? I have also looked at the econowrapper made by one of the sponcers here. When it comes to epoxy and finishes I am lost. I was considering just going with the Trondak products and sticking with that for a while. What about thread. Should I just order the fishhawk kit and be done with it?

Thanks for your help I just need to get a basic list of things to get me started.

First thing you need to order and read is Tom Kirkmans "Rod Building Guide". It's like a magazine in size and photographs, meaning it's short, to the point, and GREAT to have. It will be the best $15.00 you'll spend.

Any good thread MADE FOR rod building will be fine

Epoxy is what you use to bond the parts to the rod: handle, cork, seat, ect....

Epoxy Finish or Thread Finish is what you use for the guide thread wrappings, decals, butt wraps and such.

These 2 epoxy's are WAY different animals. Make sure you buy the right one for the job. Most all of them work well.

DR

I would recommend a 9', 5 wt kit that is offered by Hook and Hackle or Cabela's. They both come with EVERYTHING you need including thread, epoxy, etc.

Angler's Workshop has a kit that has just about everything you could need all together including the wrapper and drying motor. Tape, reamers , epoxy adhesives and finish, etc. Wrapper Part # RBK. I used that wrapper and drying motor setup for over 30 years and it still looks and works great.

Chris. You might want to try Mud Hole , they have rod kits . my first rod build was a kit from M H Hope you fine rod building is a great hobby

By all means get either Tom's book or Flex Coat's How We Do It DVD. That way you will have a better idea what is involved and what you actually need.

I saw the EcoWrapper at the Expo back in Feb. and was very impressed with it. I think you would like it but the Flex Coat wrapper is no slouch either. It will do the job just fine if you are on a bit of a budget.

Buying a kit will ensure that you have all the parts that you need, and save a little money, most likely. Buying your components separately will allow you to tailor the rod to your own preferences. I would save my money on the wrapper, just until you're sure you want to continue in the craft. You can make wrapping stand, using a cardboard box with a couple of opposing"v"'s cut in it. Or, if you're slighty handy, and have access to tools and materials, make a stand. Once you've built a rod or two, you'll know if you wish to continue. At that point, make a decision on a wrapper, dryer, lathe, workshop, etc..

Another vote for Tom's book... It's easy to understand, and tells you everything you need to know to build your first rod.

The sponsors on the left are great sources for information, and they carry all the items that you require. They pay for this forum; so I try to buy all of my supplies from them.

triple post-DOH!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/27/2009 01:15AM by George Forster.

Double post



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/27/2009 01:14AM by George Forster.

Chris,

As a new rod builder myself, I would recommend Tom's book as well. You can save yourself alot of headaches and a few $$ by reading it. Like some of the guys already said, buy a kit to start to make sure that you have everything you need. I would recommend getting an inexpensive kit to start. The cardboard box trick is a good one to use for a rod wrapper! Once you get the hang of things, it wouldn't hurt to buy a rod builder's tool kit like Spencer mentioned.

The cool part of this hobby is that there is a wealth of knowledge and experience on this forum and guys are more than willing to help us newbies out. Also, the sponsors that I've dealt with this far are very knowledgeable and willing to take the time to walk you through the buying and building process.

welcome to the addiction,
jeremy

I'm with George on the wrapper; make your own!

As far as the kit's go... It's all there, and decently priced, but I personally am not a fan.
The kits usually contain items that I prefer not to use (cheap guides, rubber winding checks, etc).
I believe for just a few dollars more you can buy aluminum winding checks, better rod finish, the thread colors YOU WANT, and upgraded guides.
In the end, you will be much happier with the rod you produce. It will look, and fish like you had imagined.

That's my 2¢,
Brian

My first rod was a kit from Cabelas`. It made it much easier when I could see exactly what I needed along with clear instructions which came with it. Also a dvd from Flex Coat titled "How We do it."

Bill

Ohio Rod Builders

Canton, Ohio

I'm a 1st time builder and ordered my 9' 5wt flyrod kit from Hook and Hackle, picked up the 3pc tool set, some other colors of thread (didn't like the black that came in kit).

I'm building my own rod wrapping jig (found here [hatchesmagazine.com])

I've taken mousetrap off it's own base sanded off logo and remounted spring and wire and mounted to base of jig. (didn't like the big mouse trap logo on my nice new custom built jig)

increased width to 6" increased length to 16" added a second mousetrap thread tensioner.
added eye screw to run thread through before going up to rod.

also building second 6" wide x 8" long support with no mousetrap thread tensioner.

Used 1/2" x 6" x 24" "craft boards (3)

Staining/varnish to gunstock redbrown

lining v's with red/black marble felt, and adding a strip of velcro to the right side of each stand to help keep blank in place but still turn.

Should have the jig finished this weekend. then I can start my first build. will post pic of jig(s) when complete.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/01/2009 11:35AM by chris starr.