So I have these new rod blanks...

[nhancock]

Now what? This is my first rod so it is new to me. I have found some good websites that detail how to put the rest together. It doesn't look too difficult but I have a few questions. I am also trying to avoid buying expensive tools if possible.

1) What is the best way to get materials? Is it better to buy a kit (handle, reel seat, epoxy, and guides)? or do you prefer to buy the materials seperate?

2) I have read a few discussions about finishing the rod with epoxy vs. using varnish. What is the difference? Which is better for someone without a device to turn the rod?

3) What is a winding check and how is it used?

[cheech]

I can help you out with a sweet handle and reel seat if you want. I would go to Fish Tech to get all of the other stuff, unless of course you want to wait for it in the mail. Definately use Flex coat to finish your first rod. A winding check is a small disk of either rubber or metal that goes right on top of thecork grip. it basically covers the tip of the cork. I think it is more a cosmetic component than anything. The rubber ones are relatively easy to get to fit because they stretch. The metal ones are harder to get to fit. If you decide to get a metal winding check, make sure you glue your grip first, then go to fish tech to get it sized properly.

[icthys]

1) It is up to you. For your first rod a kit might be the way to go. I like to buy it all seperate, that way I get what I want and not what someone told me to get.

2) I didn't have anything to turn my rods after I applied the finish also. I used Flex-coat lite and applied 3-4 thin coats. I then just manually rotated the rod every 10-20 minutes. I didn't have any problems with the finish sagging.

3) A winding check is a piece of plastic or metal that butts up against the top of the handle. I have yet to figure out what it is used for other than hiding the imperfection and gap where the top of the handle meets the rod.

[Rod]

...is the little rubber washer that I forgot to put on my rod (last night at midnight)until after I had the snake foot guide, stripper guide and was in the process of wrapping the hook keeper when I noticed it laying there on my bench. Damn!

[gware]

If you get a chance come into the shop and I will show you what is needed and options on getting it done.

gware

[nhancock]

Thanks gware. I am still researching exactly what I want to do. I will see if I can swing by after work one day this week.