Spey blanks often bend clear down into the upper grip. Has anyone built a spey upper grip with a foam core and carbon fiber? If so, what were the results? If not, will the foam core allow any flexing? If the foam core/carbon fiber grip is completely rigid, I'm worried about blank failure at the end of the grip. Thank for your comments.

I have made quite a few for people and have not heard of any problems yet.i laways tell people when fitting to cut the carbon fiber back a little bit from the core while reaming. I have them do this so that if the fit is not quite right yet you won't scratch the blank while testing fit, but his also allowas the foam core to let the blank flex or ovalize a bit.

Thanks Dick. I'm not sure I follow how cutting the carbon back allows the blank to ovalize within the 13.5" or so of foam core. It's the core I'm worried about. Will the foam core flex along its entire length?

The foam itself should move and form as the blank pushes against it. I cut the CF away at the front because it is rigid and won't flex with the blank and so as not to scratch the blank during fitting and installing. The foam is not really any more rigid than cork and can be dented with a fingernail.

That makes sense. Thank you!