From Volume 5 - Issue #1 issue of RodMaker magazine:
When I get new blanks in from my suppliers I have the habit of unpacking
each one and inspecting it closely. I want to make sure it is free from
defects or problems before I begin working on it and it may be some time
before many of them will get used. I don't want to pull one out of the
wrapper 6 months after it arrived and find that the butt section is
crushed or something along those lines. Especially if I suddently
need it to fill a rush order with it!
You wouldn't think blanks would arrive damaged, but many do. Damage
occurs in shipping and there may also be flaws that the quality control
department at the factory overlooked. Find out if your blanks are as
expected as soon as they arrive instead of getting a surprise later.
Another thing I like to do when they come in is to take a gel pen or
paint pen and write the manufacturer's name and model number on the
butt. So many of the decals and stickers with that information tend
to get lost in the shuffle or fall out of the bags. If you have
many blanks it's easy to get them mixed up and not know what you are
working with. Having that info written on the butt ensures that you
can quickly and easily identify each and every blank. Do make sure
to keep the manufacturer's decals somewhere safe as they will be
needed should you ever have to return a blank for warranty purposes.
Don't worry about how your writing looks as it is for your eyes only.
Once the handle is built the info will be covered over. But do
make sure you use a pen with ink that won't wipe off or smudge or you
may be left wondering just what the heck you have there!
~ Stephen Gollager
Publishers note:
If you have any tips or techniques, send them
along! Help out your fellow rodmakers!
~ Publisher, FAOL
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