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Good advise above. I would check my line / leader connection against a couple different sizes of the guide type I wanted to use and set runners in the smallest size that passes the connection easily....

The trick for me was not generating bubbles mixing the epoxy. The easiest way for me to accomplish that little feat was a motorized mixer. These can be purchased or home brewed, but definitely worth...

Inserted ring guides are available in several different materials / thicknesses with more frame choices than you can shake a stick at. While not as light as wire guides, the weights have been...

A hot melt type guide adhesive is available. Lightly heat the foot and sweep it across the the top of the glue stick and put in place. Won't harm the thread, blank, or act ugly with the finsih.

I wouldn't sweat yet. We had one that was out of town this week.

John R.
Received mine today. Very nice build for a 1st timer. Handle /seat centered nicely on the blank, solid construction joints, and excellent alignment of the seat to the guide train. Thread...

Bingham Enterprises has the St. Croix line. As Kevin stated, Mudhole carries both.

It is all in the hands of good ole Uncle Sams Post Office now. Shipped today UPS priority mail. My only request is the recipient provide feedback. The best way to improve skills is feedback.

Looking Good. When you tell the wife you want 256 colors of thread for Christmas, it is time for intervention.

Wrapping the end of the female ferule adds protection against the ferule splitting out. IMHO it's good building practise, especially on thin walled blanks.

Beautiful build.

There are a ton of bottom fishing boat rods in service that have wooden grips. These are not stabilized wood, see service probably 250 days a year, and never get attention other than bilge water wash...

I am not good with a camera and not set up with software that manipulates picture format very well. With that disclaimer, I think I have attached pics of my entry to the swap.

Agree with TampaJim. Epoxy is a bonding agent, not a mechanical filler. Any glue joint, lesser is better for stongest joint. Best scenario is a slip fit of the reel seat to the blank. Next best is a...

As stated above, this is his first build. I vote to let him have the time he has requested to complete the job to his satisfaction. I think it is neat a new builder is participating. Show and tell is...

Optical illusion from the underwrap and overwrap being wrapped in opposite directions. The finish coat applied between the underwrap and overwrap add depth that helps trick the eye. Folks that have...

The thread holds the guide. I have actually fished without any type finish over the thread to be positive the build was exactly as I wanted. The gudies were still on the rod after a couple days of...

Take one of the small metal containers like varnish or stain comes in. Insert a small eye screw (picture / mirror hanger type) near the bottom of the can. Pour the permagloss into the can and seal....

Not mono, but in the fish line section of WM. Power Pro brand probably the cheapest. All brands make it (Stren, Berkely, Spiderwire, etc).

Rod has cured, flannel sack sewn, ship tube sized and fitted with caps. Ready to load, lock, and ship.

Did you do a test wrap over a guide? If not, this will give you a better indication of final look. I have started using the 2lb diameter - 10 lb test braid for my loops. Stuff is tiny, super strong,...

Something to keep in mind. On a fly rod you hold the grip. On a spinning rod, the majority of the time you are holding the reel seat itself. Sizing the reel seat for the users hand size makes the rod...

Thanks Betty.

Noticed that a few folks mentioned sewing up their own rod socks. What is your preferred material for making rod socks?

Final finish coat on and turning. Will let cure all week and package up next weekend.