Is there any logic to the shape of fly rod grips or is it just tradition. Seems like 5 wt and less usually have a cigar shape, but 6 wt and above use a full wells. If you are suppose to use what feels best, why doesn't the same shape feel "best" on all weight rods? Is there a shape that is best for accuracy, fatigue, distance, etc., and if so is there a logical explanation?

John,
The nice thing about building custom fishing rods, is that you have the opportunity to talk over the build with your client (or yourself if building for your self) and decide on the handle shape that you like.

Sure, there are certain conventions that have been adopted over the years, but you do not have to use anything that looks remotely like any other grip, if you don't wish to.

Try a few different shapes and see what works best for you and your or your client needs.

Be safe

The shapes have evolved over time. The difference between the two you mention has to do with leverage. With the Full Wells usually one places their thumb against the forward swell allowing more pressure during the forward cast. This is more important on heavier rods, making longer casts.

However as stated above, personal choice should be the deciding factor.

The market for small grips is driven by people with small hands and the price of cork. Comfort should determine grip choice, and the angler can easily select the most comfortable grip by simply closing his or her hand around a variety of grips, regardless of the rod they are on.

Look back a bit through history, don't have to go far, today's convention hasn't been around long.

There are as many different fly rod grips as there are rod companies. The Ritz, the cigar, the full wells, the half wells, the reverse half wells, the Wes Jordan which had an indent for the thumb, the straight grip, etc. It is all a matter of preference.

For years I have built the full wells with a pretty pronounced "swelling" at the ends.

But lately I have gone over to the "Ritz" grip for my personal rods. Customers still want the full wells because they are used to the look - I guess.

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Herb

The Ritz grip is so simple, and perhaps not entirely attractive, that many rod builders overlook it. The key to how well it works is the ability to change the feel and ergonomics by simply moving your casting up or back an inch or so. It's an outstanding grip.

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One example of a "Ritz Grip"

[www.rodbuilding.org]

I had never heard of of a "Ritz" style grip before today. However, it just so happened that I accidently made one and liked its feel and simplicity in both its lines and construction. Having never seen one before, I was second guessing myself and asked the above question to justify changing it to something more traditional. Now, having discovered that my design is nothing new, has a name and is already accepted, I think I will put it on the 9'-6", 6 wt that I'm building for myself. Thanks for the input.

The Ritz grip is the better choice for me on rod #6 and heavier.
Simple, clean and very ergonomic.

The Ritz grip is seldom if ever seen on a factory rod nowdays, but people who see it on a custom rod like the look and feel of this old style grip. I have made many fly rods with this style grip over the years, and the people who had me make one for their rod love it.

Another one that seems to have fallen out of fashion is the fenwick grip. It is very comfortable and also gives hand position change. Kind of a cross between a ritz and full wells.