Does anyone know of a source for aluminum spinning reel seat skeletal hardware? REC sells a nice one, but it is somewhat expensive. I would like to turn a wooden insert, and don't want to utilize the same old boring looking graphite hardware from Fuji. Graphite is certainly functional, but is definitely lacking cosmetically. Thanks.
Forum: rodboard

I am planning on building either a 5'or 6' ultralight spinning rod for panfish that will be rated for 4lb. line as well as 1/64 oz. lure weight, and ultimately made up of premium components. What brand of blanks, guides, and reel seats would you recommend for this project?
Forum: rodboard

I am looking for plans for a cork drilling clamp similar to one pictured in the following link, or if anyone is aware of a place to buy one. There were plans in volume 1 #4 of RodMaker, but that issue is no longer available to purchase. Thanks.
Forum: rodboard

I want to start making my own cork grips for fly rods after years of utilizing preformed ones, but it seems that it is rather difficult to locate a supplier that offers a consistent quality product according to posts on this forum as well as others. Where do you purchase your cork rings from? I appreciate any insight regarding who to buy from, and ultimately what places to avoid. Thanks.
Forum: rodboard

I would like some opinions regarding reel seats that will be utilized for two bamboo fly rods (banty and 6wt.) that will be rebuilt with modern components. I prefer uplocking, and ultimately want a reasonably priced/quality built seat. Does anyone have any experience with Hook and Hackle's U5 or Pacific Bay's U5? Also, what about Pacific Bay's inexpensive A5 series?
Forum: rodboard

Thanks Ralph for your input regarding Sorby. I would like to know what types, sizes, etc. that should be purchased to get me started. Would it be better to purchase individual tools or is there a nice starter set? Also, where is the best place as far as price is concerned to buy tools from?
Forum: rodboard

I am going to purchase a Jet Mini Lathe along with a Nova Precision Midi Chuck to turn grips as well as wooden real seat inserts, and have already viewed Andy Dear's informative instructional DVD. However, I would like opinions on brands and types of turning tools (spindle gouge with fingernail grind/ parting tool) that should also be purchased? Some of these brands such as Crown and Robert Sor
Forum: rodboard

I have built a few graphite fly rods over the years, and decided to try bamboo via adding modern components to two inexpensive South Bend and one Montague. However, I need some advice regarding which finish to ultimately utilize in my drip tube. Helmsman and Ace Hardware Spar are readily available locally, but finishes such as MOW as well as Pratt & Lambert #61 that seem to be mentioned often
Forum: rodboard

What about something like PSI TCLPRO Turncrafter PRO Midi Lathe? It is being offered from Amazon for $169.95 with an additional 10%. It seems that a lot of people like the Jet mini, but it costs over a $100.00 more.
Forum: rodboard

I have built a few graphite as well as rebuilt a variety of bamboo fly rods, and would like the the option to turn my own cork grips and wooden reel seat inserts. What would be some suitable lathe manufacturers/models to accomplish this without a considerable investment( less than $200.00)? Also, what type of features/options should I look for?
Forum: rodboard

Does anybody know of a retailer that sells Man O' War Spar Varnish in Norteastern Ohio? Valspar's website shows the nearest dealer approximately ninety minutes from my home. There are a few online sources (westernwooddoctor.com $14.95 Qt., woodworkersupply $19.99 Qt, etc.), but I have never purchased from them before. I have decided to utilize it as a finish for a couple of bamboo fly rods via
Forum: rodboard

I am finally at the stage to apply a finish to two bamboo fly rods, but still haven't decided on which one to ultimately use. The rods are a banty and a SB 359-9 that will receive a new reel seat, grip, and guides. A wipe-on polyurethane or Birchwood-Casey Tru-Oil seem like the easiest as opposed to a spar urethane. However, what could I utilize to thin a spar varnish to make it a wipe-on to aqui
Forum: rodboard

There are a few people on @#$%& selling banty fly rods for approximately $150, and I am interested in possibly building my own from a nine footer's mid/tip as a project for the Winter. What are your thoughts and experiences with this type of project? Thanks in advance.
Forum: rodboard