Hi guys. I am new to the board and have a question regarding making the cork for this reel seat. I know I can purchase a pre-made fuji cork cutout handle for this seat, but I would like to create a custom handle out of either wood (preferably) or cork. Is there any easy way to create the cutout or am I going to need to simply cut down a handle to make it work? It is one of those things that looks easy to screw up and I would rather not be practicing too much on good handles. Thanks

ray jorgenson from classic custom wood used to offer plans for some of his designs. he also had a jig he made for using those reel seats. i don't know if he is still offering these. i am not aware of any of our sponsors that would have what you are looking for. you want to make a jig that allows you to cut the handle to fit the vss seat. i made one years ago, but wasn't happy with it. i have since used different seats for other designs. the vss is a fine seat and design.

Mike Pedersen at Riley Rods has made some out of foam & carbon fiber, You may want to contact him. If I remember correctly, he said it was mostly freehand on a belt sander to get the contour.

I have done it free hand with files and sand paper once: i now buy them in.
There is a half way option too: the contoured part is available in cork from Acid rod.It extends 1/2 inch back from the contour part. You can then add and shape the part behind that.
Fuji also make it in foam, but i have been unable to source that.
Not sure either would work with wood.
If its the "hand full of grip" part that you like about the VSS have you tried AERO seats?

I have been thinking about trying a Robo Sander with a template in the drill press and then making a fixture to hold the grip.

I did my first one by hand and it was quite time consuming. I agree with Lou that the AERO seats are a good way to go, but my friend who I am building this rod for has some very specific desires for the handle. I have a son who is a machinist and he may be able to machine a jig for me that will work. Sometimes the problem solving is half the fun when building a rod! Thanks for all of your suggestions.

There is a tool with many slender "fingers" in a fixture that is used for copying contours in wood working.
I got mine at the local hardware store.

Best wishes,
Ron Schneider
Schneider's Rod Shop
Mountain Home, Arkansas
[www.schneidersrods.com]
mtnron40@yahoo.com
870-424-3381