This is a simple, silly question, but what's the best way to keep a metal ring hook keeper from flopping into the epoxy when turning the rod? I'm building a Batson RX8 5-wt using Snake Brand hardware and the hook keeper is of the type that uses a thin metal strip to hold on a small ring. I've wrapped over the metal strip on both sides to the point where the wraps just start to climb away from the blank. The hook keeper can still move, however, and I don't know exactly how to keep it from flipping into the epoxy when I finish the rod. Is the best option a tighter wrap so that the ring won't move? Do folks usually epoxy the base of the ring itself, or try to keep the epoxy to the edges of the wrap? I though about using a pin, straight into the cork...but decided to ask the experts first.

The pin is a good option, or a piece of wire long enough to tape to the cork to hold the ring upright. Some use a small straw for this as well.

Terry

I've used a piece of wire coat hanger bent so it goes through the ring on one end and up to the front grip on the other. I fasten the front grip end with some painter tape to keep the ring held tightly away from the finish as it turns in the dryer.

like Terry said. i either use a pin with the ball end or a straight pin and put a bend in it. epoxy the wrap near the grip. put the pin thru the ring and stick it into the cork. then do the other side.

I use a toothpick wedged under the ring so it is held upright. This also keeps th eepoxy out so the ring is free once I remove the toothpick.

And this is why this site is the absolute best. I have options, now. Thanks!

A job best done by hand rolling the rod instead of on a power wrapper or drying motor. Might work if you had 3 hands and a slip clutch.

Instead of doing one side at a time you can tape the wire on I would guess the foregrip or seat if no grip

Then making some room and maybe thread on the ring Then tied to the wire or spring to hold it up
Then hand turn the rod and coat the covered side Under the wire Turn on the turner and finish off all the rest

Bill - willierods.com

I wrap the metal keeper down without the ring. Then I go to the jewlery store, and use either a silver plate, or gold plate, ~split ring~ like they use on charm bracelets. I've seen three sizes, from small on up.. there may be more, but our store carries three sizes. Works for me...your mileage may vary. Oh yeah: the rings cost about 50 cents for silver, and a dollar for gold. Gold never tarnishes. Ever.

Gee

I guess you just made all of us feel reel stupid

Bill - willierods.com

Real

;)

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