I was just curious to know if there is a specific formula/guideline that you guys use to determine rear grip handle length. I have a few Sage CT casting blanks that I would like to start wrapping but having a hard time deciding how long I would like the rear grip handles to be. These blanks are very nice and have been discontinued, so I want to make sure that I build the right. These rods will be built with the Fuji dual trigger reel seat and as baitcasters for drifting for steelhead and salmon. They vary in length from 9' go 10' long. Still deciding whether to wrap all of them in the conventional all guides on top versus spiral wrap. As far as handle length is concerned, if I use my forearm as a gauge, then a 12.5" handle will touch the tip of my elbow. I like a longer handle (have a few rods with 15" handles) for increased balance. However, it sometimes get tangled in my jacket or fishing vest. Just curious to know how you guys determine rear grip handle length and/or if there is a specific guideline involved. Thanks in advance.

Simple answer is go out and play like catching a fish
Grab the rod as if a fish on Move your hands till it feels comfortable to you If you will two handed cast if the rod is kept in front of you you don't want the butt hitting you belly or clothes

Do this several times to get it right

Measure twice - cut once

Bill - willierods.com

Please take a look at the Control Center and "UNHIDE" your email address.

Thanks

When I was a Musky fanatic I used handles that came an inch or two short of my elbow.
I wanted to brace the handle against my forearm, for leverage, and like you found longer grips tended to foal on cloths.
The worst problems were with Split-Grips and straight handles that had knob type butt caps.
Garry2R's

Thanks. Email setting changed.

The general rule of thumb is shorter than the length from where you hold the reel to your elbow. It is normally 1-3 inches.

Hmmm, for some reason it's not letting me show my email. Will have to do it at home tonight.

nguyelam@hotmail.com

this it

Bill - willierods.com

Lam,
I make the rear grip the necessary length to work well with the overall length of the rod.
i.e. short rod, short rear grip. Long rod, long rear grip.

I use handles from 5-15 inches long.

Good luck
Roger

I agree with Roger.

Rufus
Port Saint Lucie, FL

I tell my customers To go into there closets and grab there broom

Go out and play like they are fishing

Then they catch a fish Mark where there hand is -- on the reel and as they cast

measure from the bottom of there hand to the bottom of the broom handle

That is the butt handle how long it should be
Simple

Bill - willierods.com