I have built just one fly rod, but have plans to build several more. I wondered about the use of cork sealer on grips. Does the sealer really protect the cork from staining? What sealers are most commonly used, and are they very specifically for cork ? Is the cork easier to clean as a consequence of treatment, and are periodic retreatments necessary?

Thanks

I don't know if you would call it a sealer or not, but I use True-oil. It's kind of like a varnish. It turns the cork a little darker and puts a bit of a shine on it too. To me it doesn't feel quite as good as the original cork, but it keeps it looking nice for a long time.

Yes, U40 Cork Seal, Yes and No.

[u-40.com]

i don't bother with cork sealer so in case you're under the impression it's necessary, it's not. i do use soft scrub cleanser and a sponge once a year or so.

eric
fresno, ca.

Phil,
After building many many many rods, I used cork sealer on one rod and decided to never seal another one.
I simply much prefer the feel of the cork without anything on the cork.

Take care
Roger

Phil, if you have an old rod, be it fly or casting, get a bottle of U40 cork seal. Sand the cork. If you like a very smooth feel use a higher grit, over 200 or if you like a little grip try 120. 1 thin coat of U40.

I was very skeptical when I first found out about it. I'm a hobby builder but I have done 35 plus years of club and local tourney bass finishing. I reworked over a dozen of AllStar rods that I have used for quite some time. I sanded out the stains, (mainly sunblock) and patched large gaps. I was sold after the first rod. Even when they are wet in hard rains (which I thought would be a problem), I saw no problem. I love fresh cork but that only last so long. Now when I build myself a new rod, I seal it before it goes to the boat.

I personally like the feel of cork. The more worn and aged it get the more memories I have. I tell people I love to fish, but truth be told I love to go for walks with my fishing equipment. The times that I have spent the day without seeing a sole, or been bothered by having to release fish are the days that I love the most. Your time outside, experiencing what mother nature gave us some of the best times I have had fishing. I went through my rods the other day to make sure I did proper maintenance on a few of them and I probably spent a good hour just playing back some of trips in my head. I tend to Ramble...So in short "Cork Feels Good Worn Cork Feels Even Better"

Mark Marshall Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Phil, if you have an old rod, be it fly or
> casting, get a bottle of U40 cork seal. Sand the
> cork. If you like a very smooth feel use a higher
> grit, over 200 or if you like a little grip try
> 120. 1 thin coat of U40.


BTW, I would suggest this approach AND add a little piece of useful information. Before you start sanding, do a very good cleaning. Start with water, then soapy water and finally baking soda and water ... an old toothbrush is very useful. Get the grip as clean as possible and allow it to fully dry - then do your sanding. Otherwise, you will sand the dirt and debris into the clean cork you are sanding to get to.

I use Tru oil on all of my rods. I like the richer look it gives to the cork. Tru oil and cork sealer help to keep the cork clean for a longer period of time.

Ohio Rod Builders

Canton, Ohio

Good morning,
I use U40 all of the time.
I started to use it on factory rods to keep the cork filler from coming out from use. The filler only lasts just so long. The U40 seals it so it lasts for years. U40 also keeps the cork cleaner - but pay attention to the instx - DO NOT APPLY TOO MUCH - AND DO NOT APPLY A SECOND COAT. Otherwise it will get slippery when wet.
Herb

Piping in here...
I use U-40 Cork Sealer on ALL my cork work. Before I began using it, my cork grips required a light sanding to clean them up 2-3 times/year. Over the years, that adds up to a good deal of cork being removed. With cork sealer, I do a light sanding every 5 years or so, and then re-apply.

Herb,
I have been using the U40 product when I do burl mix grips to bring out the grain so to speak. I have been doing a second coat to give a slightly higher sheen to it and have not had any problems with it being slippery. Similar to the carbon fiber grips, the shape matters more than the slickness of the surface. If you like burl cork with one coat, two looks great. I havent tried tru oil yet....keep forgetting to pick some up.

Scott Sheets
www.smsrods.com

I like to mix Elmers wood filler light oak and U40 into a paste after i sand lightly and get that into the small holes and chips , its just stays nice longer. I tried mixing cork dust in too but that did not work well for me.Too gritty a finish.
I spread by finger wearing rubber gloves. Sand very lightly and then pure u40 with a sponge brush. Works for me.

Scott,
I use U40 also on exotic cork burl (Lamar's old product) and it does bring out the "graining" very nicely. I fly fish the surf a lot and get smacked by waves all the time. Can't keep my hands or grip dry. The 2nd coat just does not work with me.
Herb

Thanks for the comment Jim.

Thanks very much. Your comments have been very helpful.