So I've built a couple dozens rods by now but all have used fighting butts that I reamed to fit the blank or butt caps that glue onto a tenon of the rear grip.

I'd like to start incorporating some butt caps like pictured above into my builds.

Do I build up a tape arbor around the stud of the butt cap so it'll fit snug inside the blank? Use a foam arbor? I'm struggling to figure out the standard way this is accomplished and couldn't find a video on YouTube either. I'm sure I'm over-thinking this....

Patrick

IMO there is no standard way for assembling fishing rod components. Lots of time things get assembled by "The mother of necessity" way. In short, do whatever will work.

Depending on the ID of the blank a tape arbor will work if the gap is not too large, or make an arbor from some scrap rod pieces, if you are lucky you will find one with a close taper.

Also, if you can, machine an arbor from a graphite arbor, dowel or any other material.

If you want a wild idea glue a screw that matches the cap thread into the end of the blank and screw on the cap.

Have fun

I use drywall tape filled with epoxy between the stem and the inside of the blank. I have never had one come loose.