Man, this working on rods takes a LOT longer than one might assume.

Believe me, if you purchase a "Custom Made" rod, you've got your money's worth.   ...individuals don't build rods to make money, they do it for the "love of the game."  .....(unless, they're Much quicker than i am! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee)

most of the front row done, but, hey, got a Long way to go!

same rods, just different angle

You've been busy!  They look good so far!

You will have less hours in a new build than a redo... which is why I still haven't touched my "store bought" rods... just waiting to have the big sale so I can restock on blanks and components!!  ...lol  

hey justtrying, looking good.  those split grip handels look sharp.  

i just have one question? how exactly are you doing them? just sanding them down?

Outstanding work, what are you using on the grips (the dark rings)

Hey, you don't care if I show these pics to my wife do you?

"See honey, he has more than ten rods too!"

Great work, I'm jealous.

aggie & g3,

couple of answers;  ...first, those "rings" are graphite rings that allpro puts in their handles so the customer can feel the slightest "tap."  ..it's as if you were holding the blank; indeed, the most sensitive rods i have ever  used.

"What Am I Doing?  Just Sanding?"    ..i'm probably doing it wrong, but, i take a razor boxknife & cut the foregrip off (as much as possible) ..use the same knife & mark around handle, cut away as much cork as i feel safe about, use wood rasp & cut away a little more, heat w/blow dryer, use knife again, put "goo gone" on rag, wipe area, re-heat, etc., etc., til it's Clean!

then i get to play & practice my wrapping technique, get to play w/epoxy, paint, & even use a toothpick as a paintbrush to put my name on the blank.

i learn something on EVERY handle.  my plans are to do about 15 or so, then, "begin at the beginning" & try to make them look a little more professional.  it's really kind of fun, once you get started & NO JOKE, they Fish MUCH BETTER.      ....someone is missing out on a Golden Opportunity, because, once a person fishes with one of their own split grips they're going to want MORE of them done.  ..if you don't believe it, try one & see! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

once a person fishes with one of their own split grips they're going to want MORE of them

That's for sure!!!!  Stay tuned... I am going to post a little story tomorrow. ;D ;D ;D