Normally, the first new issue of each year mails on February 1st. Because this issue contains the tickets to the RodMaker Reception, held on the 22nd of that month, the new issue will mail about a week early. Those of you who need to renew should do so now as it'll be in the mail in just another week. New subscribers who wish to attend the Reception should do likewise. We will be checking subscription status this year.



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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/16/2013 08:18AM by Tom Kirkman.

That is an awesome cover shot!! Congrats to Bill Ballou on his article and beautiful work featured on teh cover!

How much weight savings could you have if these were created with foam instead of wood? Those look really sharp.

Not a lot - these are extremely light to begin with. They're cedar and feature a large bore. JP Timberlake was by here a few weeks ago and I handed him a set. Maybe he'll chime in and give you his impressions as to their weight. By the expression on his face when I handed the grips to him, I have a pretty idea what he's going to say.

The complete story and how-to is in the article.

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I agree with Tom, they are very light. I don't think foam would be much different than the cedar Bill Ballou is using. They really look fantastic. I remember Bill showing me some of his first ones, and he really has done a great job with these. I look forward to the article and seeing more at the Show

Tha big blue fore grip is about 1 1/2 oz. The split grips for 3 pieces is about 1 1/2 oz. If you leave the small front piece off .close to an oz.. Will have some painted. Possibly college logos also some clear red ceder, sassafras and walnut. More split grips than large fore grip.
Thanks everyone,
Bill

I saw a set that Billy Vivona had at the Chicago gathering and can't wait to get my hands on some at the Expo

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Very innovative Bill. Wish I was going this year to see them in person. Circumstances though...

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

Looking forward to it.

I'm about to glue a set on, they look awesome. Congrats Bill!!

I think too much emphasis by some is placed on the weight of the grip. This is a valid concern when making an ultri-light rod, but I would consider first, the weight of the remainder of the rod sticking out in front of the grip.Balance of the overall rod would be my primary consideration.

To answer the best I can . These grips have a 1/2 " thru hole. Any ulrta light rod the hole diameter would be much smaller. The grip would also be smaller in diameter lessening the weight. I'm guessing a 2'' butt piece and a 3" grip made for an ultra light wouldn't weight more than the reel seat. But I understand your concern.