What is the easiest method to remove snake guides from a fly rod? I broke the tip section which is being replaced but I need the guides for the repair. I removed one of the four already by cutting the epoxy with a razor blade. It wasn't easy and I just feel there is an easier way. Would applying heat help at all?

Heat will soften the epoxy somewhat but you don't want too much heat where it will harm the blank, just enough to barely soften the finish. Cut the epoxy over the leg of the guide foot and peel it off as well as you can.

[www.rodbuilding.org]

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I'll second the heat method. I have a heat gun with an adjustable heat setting on it. It doesn't take much heat to soften the wrap finish, then I use a razor blade to cut into the finish and thread on the top of the guide foot, once you have a purchase you can peel and scrape away with a fingernail and just reapply the heat as necessary to remove it all. Just take your time with the heat and remember that it doesn't take to much heat to soften the finish. Once done, just clean the area with Iso Alcohol and redo the wraps.

Heat it up and it will be easier to cut off. I wouldn't be too concerned about the blank as it is trash already. Could however be a learning experience.

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

Kurt,
In the case, such as yours, where you are scraping out the blank, I just use a propane torch. Just heat everything up until it smokes, cut the guides off and scrape down the guide foot for a clean reuse.

If you use the torch to get things nice and toasty, it will take about 10 seconds per guide to cut them free and clean them up. Do not heat the guides so much that they change color or you can change the properites of the guide.

Good luck
Roger

Thanks for the comeback guys. And thanks, Tom, for pointing out that tutorial. I had done a forum search but forgot the library. I'll strip them tomorrow. I have an alcohol torch bottle I'll use to gently heat things up. Like was said, the blank is scrap but I want to practice getting them off cleanly.