I'm using single foot SIC guides for the first time and was wondering if a size 6 was too small to use on my 9'0" 3pc 5wt. Personally, it looks aweful small but I was wondering what others have used with success. Unfortunately, due to cost, I'd rather not buy a variety and test cast each. Any info would be appreciated. Aaron
Forum: rodboard

On the last several rods I've done I've started only putting finish on the guide wrap and not overlapping it onto the guide. I do fill guide tunnels and don't use CP (so I should be getting good thread saturation). I'm curious if there are any real risks on light-medium tackle freashwater rods with not having the finish lap onto the blank. I haven't had a problem with my previous rods yet, but
Forum: rodboard

I'm wondering if anyone has any comments on the Gatti FR-TA series of blanks. I'm looking to build something in the 5-6wt class and was wondering if they're worth the extra doe. I've heard that they are much more brittle/fragile than you're average blank. Is this true? Any info woulld be appreciated. Thanks.
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What do you guys suggest as an alternative? The rod is a DC 5wt. What about Fuji single foot SiC rings? To heavy for this application? Aaron Mauck
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Just curious as to people's impressions of these guides (not RECOIL but the TiCarbide plated snakes). Looking for guides for the next project but am not sure they're worth the extra money. Line speed? Durability? Do most poeple seem to be moving towards single foot guides with ceramic inserts? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.
Forum: rodboard

I recently ordered a Dan Craft 9' 5wt Sig V and was trying to locate the section length for the three pieces so I can start on my case. Does anyone have that spec, built that particular rod or know the case size off the top of there head? Is there a post that keeps information like that? I appreciate any help.
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I just got back a 4pc. 5wt Sage I had built a couple years ago. Apparently the owner was fishing and set the rod down to eat lunch not paying much attention to the rod. When he was finished eating he returned to the rod to find some marmot/ gopher or some mountain rodent enjoying a feast on the cork handle of both his and a friends rod. I was skeptical and have never heard of such a thing but
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I've wanted to add a little flare to my next rod and was thinking or using a stripping guide with an agate insert. Has anyone used these on a graphite rod or are they only used on bamboo? Does the cost drive most folks away? Are newer materials simply far superior? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
Forum: rodboard

I've been reading the posts over the last several days and it seems that most folks put multiple coats of finish over there wraps. Is the general consensus that you should have or need more than one finish? I know it depends on the finish used, but am wondering is it better to use one thicker coat or multiple thin coats?
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Do most folks apply sealer to their finished cork grips? I did a test area and it seemed to slightlty darken the cork a bit. Does it really add that much protection and durability down the road? How do people feel about fly reel seats in which the wood insert extends beyond the metal harware; those without a metal end cap? I can't decide if they are more elegant or just odd. Are there any
Forum: rodboard

I've got two brief questions. Why is silk thread more common with bamboo rods and nylon with graphite? I'd like to achieve the same type of transparency on my guide wraps for a rod but was wondering if silk thread is better for this. Two--Has anyone used the black chromed snake guides? Is the finish very durable or will it simply become scratched and dulled with use?
Forum: rodboard