I'll second the choice of the Foercast blank. I've built a 4 pc blank and it's one of my favorite rods. Spine??? I've built two rods using the spine method and both are crooked. I'm building the next one for straightness. Components??? You will get "good" components in the kit H&H puts together. You might be able to spend a few more dollars and get an upgrade on a specific component, ie. reel seat, guides, etc. I can't see the video being to much of a selling point, but that's just me. Download the rodbuilding guide here on this site and you'll be fine.

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These are the idle thoughts that posses a man's mind when he's not able to fish.