I don't think it is a really often a question of better as many seem to be talking about, but maybe better for who the rod is being built for. If you buy a good rod off the shelf or build one from a great kit no doubt you are probably going to get a great rod but if you or your customer wants or needs something different then knowing how to match up the components for that needed rod might result
Forum: rodboard

Phil Erickson Wrote: ------------------------------------------------------- > I have never built out a kit rod, but that does > not give me the right, to belittle those who do.! > As has been mentioned, numerous times above, > starting with a kit, has led many deeper into the > process, be it a hobby or an business endeavor. > > Trying to direct others to your way
Forum: rodboard

Hey Peter, I really am sorry that my post upset you. I do get a little caught up. I was just trying to encourage new builders to design their first rod and research and the parts thinking they might get a little more out of it. Should have just said that. I do see your point and you are right I really did not consider that lots of people picked up kits just so they could do a fun build and hav
Forum: rodboard

OK, clearly lots of positives come from using kits for those who do and many many folks who use one go on to become immersed in the craft and build many more fantastic rods. I do also realize that if you follow directions the end result is probably a very good fishing pole. but... All of those positives happen when you build one without a kit, although you might well end up with a crappy o
Forum: rodboard

started to say I was not knocking it but I guess that is a little disingenuous. I guess I posted this to get maybe a discussion going on this and maybe encourage new builders to pull up and rethink before they buy an 'everything' kit. We are an instant society these days but the push for more and more inclusive kits, to me has gone maybe a little too far. I was on one of the major websites an
Forum: rodboard

What is the point of buying a rod kit that ends up being the complete rod? I guess I don't get it, if everything is preselected then its not to customize and get exactly what you want, right? Is it to save dough or just wanting the thrill of putting pre-selected parts together?
Forum: rodboard

Aleks Maslov Wrote: ------------------------------------------------------- > Best Regards, > Alex sooo, moving on. Are current prices going to end soon? For instance Green Iconoglass 8’6? 12wt is listed at $175.00 with an x through it and $87.50 as price. When evaluating your prices long term should I look at the x'd out number as the ongoing price?
Forum: rodboard

Really perplexed by some low prices of small batch rod companies. Are they using cheap import blanks and is this OK? These are companies that, when reviewing press write-ups, operate from small shops or garages with one-four people hand building out lines of fg and carbon rods and the prices are often starting at under $200 retail with case. I get how really large companies working on economie
Forum: rodboard

Thanks Jim, added it to my sites.
Forum: rodboard

I do not want to make any but the most simple of my tools. I make high quality rods to sell and the last thing I want to do is try and do this with tools that have been made by someone like me, who knows nothing about making those tools, after reading a few instructions and maybe watching a video or two. Thanks in advance for any advice on where to source equipment/tools best for bamboo rod
Forum: rodboard