Trying To Get Into Custom Rod Makeing Any Advice

[Justin Collins]

I am trying to get into to custom rod making does anyone have any pointer or info they would care to pass along

[Downeaster2010]

There is too much to it to just pass along.  I recommend you purchase two books written by Dale Clemmons, whom

is know as one of the best rod makers.  I have built rod for over 20 years but no longer as my eye sight fails me on

watching the fine thread.  You will need several tools, most are very inexpensive.   You can build a better rod than

you can purchase, because you choose the parts and the blank.  When I say that, I mean most often retailers skimp

on 1 or 2 of the parts that make up the type of rod you want to create.  Its only a few dollars difference on a good

Fuji reel seat, vs an elcheapo.  If you are thinking of building, you don't have to purchase a retail setup for your

rollers etc.  Most rod builders I know built there own.  As for rollers that your rod will turn on. most of us use the

rollers, that are associated with shower doors.  They are ball bearing, and work well for thousands of rods.  As

for a rod drying device once a fresh finish is on.  I made one out of a small motor used in an old humidifier. It turn

the rod about 10 to 15 times per minute, while the epoxy is drying.  Again, get the Clemmons books, and you can

get a tackle crafting book from Cabelas.  They include basic rod building booklet with there kits.  There epoxy is

very good.

[.RM.]

Like downeaster2010 I had to give up after 15 yrs building the eyes are very important...LOL

While Dale is a premier rod builder, I would say that the book is a bit to advanced to start with.

 

My recomendation would be to purchase the book Rod-Building Guide by Tom Kirkman read it cover to cover,

then log onto his website......

http://rodbuilding.org/list.php?2  Rodbuilding.org

 

Read everything there, signup and ask lots of question. Thats how you get started.....

 

Good Luck & Tight Wraps!  

[Justin Collins]

• Thank you both for your advise and I will get them books and look at the web sites and thanks for the information on homemade rollers and drying device and again thanks for the information

 

[derekxec]

Like downeaster2010 I had to give up after 15 yrs building the eyes are very important...LOL

While Dale is a premier rod builder, I would say that the book is a bit to advanced to start with.

 

My recomendation would be to purchase the book Rod-Building Guide by Tom Kirkman read it cover to cover,

then log onto his website......

http://rodbuilding.org/list.php?2  Rodbuilding.org

 

Read everything there, signup and ask lots of question. Thats how you get started.....

 

Good Luck & Tight Wraps!  

 

this book and website will tell you everything and sooooo much more about rod building...i have the book and have been using that site for a few years now and its wonderful

[Downeaster2010]

If you need I can post some pic's of my rod building jig.  I don't use it anymore, as I have a hard time seeing the

size A thread.

[derekxec]

get a nice clamp on magnifying glass for that...my eyes are great and wow sometimes i need it for metallic A thread lol

[Justin Collins]

yea that would be great. I would love to see some pic's of it to give me a ideal, and thanks derekxec for the tip on the magnifying glass

[Crookedneck]

rodbuildingforum.com is also a good site to visit.  Lots of help.  No conflicts on the site and lots of people willing to help.  If you have any specific questions feel free to PM me.  I am more than willing to help.

[Bassin_0502]

I am trying to get into to custom rod making does anyone have any pointer or info they would care to pass along

In addition to the great books recommended below, visit Mudhole.com  They are one of the larger retailers in the rod building market. They offer 1 1/2 day classes at various locations around the country. For about $150, you will walk away on the second day with a nice custom built spinning rod and a decent amount of the tools etc you need to keep building. Instructors are great, and you will learn the basics by doing it yourself under their guidance. Kirkman's Rod building forum is a fantastic resource; the experts are extremely willing to offer tips and guidance. Linnk is   rodbuilding.org    Once you get one build under your belt, you'll want to go to the Rod Expo, held each year in late February. This past year it was in Winston Salem NC, previously in Highpoint NC. A playground of rod building supplies, technique demos, great suppliers etc. Bring your Visa card. Good luck

[BobP]

Tom Kirkman lives in the vicinity so that's why the rodbuilding org seminars are in High Point, Winston Salem and environs.  You didn't say what experience you have in building rods, but before making plans, you should build a few rods for yourself, friends, and family to get a taste of what's involved.  It requires exacting detail work and you also have to deal with demanding customers, so it's not for everyone.  I build rods for myself and a few friends.  I enjoy using them and saving the money I'd otherwise pay for a factory rod but wrapping rods is not something I enjoy "in and of itself" as a hobby.  And doing it as a business requires some investment.