Hi Guys,
It's been awhile, and I've got the itch.
Looking to build a 8'6" medium, to medium-slow action 5 weight
for trout fishing in the Northeast for a friend who likes the feel of
something a little slower, while still being graphite

Not looking to break the bank on a blank. Any suggestions would be appreciated from fellow-builders.

Tight Lnes,
Paul Kolis

The Batson F-865 or F865-4 would be my recommendation. this is their RX-6 line and is slower than their RX-7 . If I remember right they are priced to not break the bank.

Ditto that blank. Call up Utmost Enterprises their a site sponser. I think the price for that blank should be in the high $40-low $50 range. Plus Carol only charges actual shipping which is a plus in my book.

Just checked GetBit has them also nice price

Bill - willierods.com

Anglers Roost ( one of the sponsors here) has some beautiful rods at a great price. And Johnny is a hoot to talk with! Check them out. Great price on reels too!

and if you want a really fun blank for small streams look at getting the F 793-2 . just an easy casting 3 wt. a nice feel compared to some of the faster/ stiffer "rocket launchers".

Hey Paul,
I'm here in the Northeast, Are you looking for 4 pc or 2 pc. I have the inventory of a builder who has passed and will look thru my inventory if your interested. Most are Talons, Forecast, Rainshadows, some no clue what they are. I build these for friends and myself.

Dave Loren

You would want to look at the Talon Highlander series to get the action your looking for, Angler's Workshop can also help.