I built a Winston BIIX 8wt, and the only flaw I saw was when I cut a guide off to re-wrap and noticed a depression on the blank where the guide was and grooves where the wraps were. I was sure I had just wrapped the guide too tight, but they all ended up looking like that. I guess the finish is just a bit softer than others I've built.

Besides that, it's a stunning rod!!!!!!!!

Good luck