From what I understand epoxy is used for handle, real seat, and tip top. And then rod finisher is used for guides and hook keeper. Correct me if that is wrong. My question is I need to buy some of each for my first rod, it's a fly rod, and I was wondering what brand and type to get for each. Thanks

There are two main types sold for custom rod building - epoxy adhesive and epoxy thread finish. They're very similar but different enough that you do not want to try and substitute one for the other.

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Will, I use regular epoxy to glue up the reel seat components, tip top, and winding check. To glue the cork and reel seat to the blank I use a product called Rod Bond. For thread finish, my vote goes to Thread Master Lite. I have also used Flex Coat Lite with decent results, but I still prefer the Thread Master Lite. I also use the regular build Thread Master for repair work. From all that I have read on thread finishes, there aren't really any bad ones, it comes down to mixing equal amounts and mixing time, along with personal preference. I'm sure some of the more experienced builders will chime in on this.
The Rod Bond is real nice stuff to work with, its a paste type of epoxy and can be bought from several of the sponsors to the left along with the regular epoxy. I use the Flex Coat brand of that stuff, but I don't think there is much of a difference in the different epoxies. I just wouldn't get the 5 minute set up stuff. It really doesn't give you a long enough work time to line parts up and if you happen to use to much and it gets on areas that will show, its difficult to clean up. Hope this helps and have fun with the build!

Will, I would like to invite you to take a look at FishSticks. We stock all of the items you are looking for. Not to be prejudice but I like the ThreadMaster also. Let Karen and I help you out and have a great day. Thanks

2 thumbs up on rod bond and threadmaster!

i still use flexcoat epoxy glue for individual cork rings, though i use rod bond for almost everything else (butt caps, reel seats, eva and cork grips)

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Give a man a fish, he'll eat for a day..
Teach a man to fish, he'll be broke!

Be aware that there are two basic types of epoxy finish for coating your wraps: high build and regular build (or lite build). For a fly rod in particular, you might want to use the lite build formula. It's personal preference, of course, but most of my clients prefer the light build for their fly rods.

For the guide wraps I've used Perma Gloss on my last few builds and really like it. I especially like the way it covers the little 3mm guides and tip tops. I understand it's a favorite for many fly rod builders. For decorative wraps I'll use TM Lite or Classic Coat. For Tiger Wraps and ramps I'll use TM High Build. There are quite a few options and each has its advantages and quirks. If you just want to start with one epoxy for the wraps I think any of the Lite builds will work just fine. As you get hooked and have three or four rods in production at a time you'll want to try some of the other options to optimize your results.

For an adhesive; grips, rings, seats, etc. there are at least as many options. Rod Bond is an all around great adhesive for just about any application where the glue lines won't be visible. If you're working with cork rings or EVA inlays/rings you'll want a good contact cement or one of the fast setting epoxies. For reel seats you can arbor them and glue up with the Rod Bond but I like expanding foam to fill the seat and create a full arbor. Anyway... until you're hooked you can probably get away with just the Rod Bond.

Since this is your first rod, no matter which ones you choose I suggest you give a trial run on the finish epoxy over a dowel wrapped with thread. This way you can iron out your technique and relax when you actually finish the rod.