Does anyone know of a source for small diameter aluminum or NS winding checks (between .19" to .24") that have more of a classic/traditional look with a knurled finish like what you might find on a Winston fly rod or something similar? I have used the cheap black rubber winding checks and the more futuristic Batson AWCCO winding checks, but I am looking for something with a more classic/traditional look. Thanks!

Pete,Take your caliper and go to a craft store or sewing center and check out the buttons they sell.All you need is the correct OD, then drill out the ID at home.Some really nice finishes in gold, copper,brass,silver. If you would like them to be domed, take a deep socket that matches or comes close to the OD of the button and set the socket standing up on a flat surface. Center the button( supported by the edges of the socket) on top and strike with a ball peen hammer. The same an be accomplished by using a vise , the socket, and a large ball bearing(if you have one). Align all items in the vise and then slowly crank in the vise until you have cupped the button to the desired effect. Of coarse, before you do any of this you must drill out the ID of the button.
I know it seems like a lot of work for a winding check but that's where custom comes from.

Dennis J. Danku
(Sayreville,NJ)

Interesting, I'm gonna look into this Dennis! Can you show some pics of this finished winding check or the sample buttons your using in the process for some insite on this. This looks like a great way to get out of jam of an "ID" being to short or just plan looking for something unique! Inventive! Have a great day !

Rick H.

rwheil@msn.com

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God Morning Peter,
Go to the Angler's Workshop ( one of our sponsors at the left) website and you will find a list of the nickel silver winding checks down to a size 13. If you can use an aluminum winding check that has been anodized to look like nickel silver, you can find a list of those on the BatsonRainshadowAlps (another of our sponsors) website. There are other sponsors listed on the left who also may carry what you need. Good luck.

Mike Blomme

Rick, At the moment I do not have samples or pictures. I only do this on a needed basis. In the past I have used coins, bottle caps,and buttons from uniforms.At one time I had access to a arbor press which made things effortless.

Dennis J. Danku
(Sayreville,NJ)

Matagi makes plain ones (no knurling) down to 5mm (.197"), in several different colors, including silver. Merrick Tackle ( a wholesaler and sponsor) lists them in their catalog. I'd check with any of the sponsors who carry Fuji, or who can order from Merrick's (Schneider's Rod Shop, another sponsor, listed on left side of this screen). On the other hand, the ones on Angler's Workshop's website look pretty nice, too.

George Forster
Fort Collins, CO



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/14/2011 10:29PM by George Forster.