After 25 yrs I am returning to building my own rods.
My current project is a stand up Tuna rod. Here is my component list.
AFTCO aluminum uni butt
Gator 50-80 lb Mod action blank. (I chunk for Tuna and wanted a Mod action)
Eliminator Roller Guides

My questions
Do you prefer to install the ferrule at the begining of the project or after the roller guides and foregrip are in place? Why?

With a solid glass tip there is back pressure when you install the ferrule. Do you tape the ferrule in place so that it doesn't move while curing?
OR
Do you drill a hole in the ferrule channel to allow air to escape? knowing the hole will fill with cement.

I was going to use mesh drywall tape to get a snung fit and proper alignment with ferrule and rod butt. Any comments on this method?

Thanks

Put a small hole in the V-notch of the ferrule. That will keep the ferrule from pushing back off while the epoxy sets. I install the ferrule first, and use it to chuck into the lathe.

If you happen to remove the ferrule lock nut while doing the installation, make darn sure to remember to slip it back on prior to mounting the grip.

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Thanks Tom . . . .thats exactly how I was planning to do the install. I wanted to be sure I was on the right track.

I do both, but I really don't like drilling the ferrule. What I have found is that if you put your arbors on the blank, then cut a channel on both sides of the tape (left and right), the air will escape and no back pressure will be in place. I don't use drywall mesh. In my opinion, masking tape is fine because it will be encapsulated in epoxy and moisture will never reach the tape if done correctly. For a clean look, place the forgrip on first then the ferrule after the grip has dried in place. There is too much excess epoxy when putting on the grip and to stop to wipe it off before you reach the ferrule will result in a difficult to move grip. Also, you can almost guarantee that you will get epoxy on the ferrule nut when you reach the ferrule with the grip.

If installing the grip after the installing the ferrule, I just use plastic wrap and tape up the nut and ferrule. Makes clean up a snap...

Regards......Doug@
TCRds