Hey all,

 I understand that there are different grades of cork and that everyone uses a different ranking system.  But can anyone help clarify or me what qualifies cork as being "Flor" grade?

Thanks for any help

Vic

Flor grade natural cork is the best of the best. Less than 5% of all natural cork can be considered Flor grade. Be careful when buying "flor grade"  cork rings on e-bay or similar sites. Flor is near perfect, with little or no pits or grooves. It's expensive because grips made from these rings are beautiful.

picture added 6/13/2008 grip made from 'flor grade' cork...

Notice there are no pits or grooves.

Ronnie

Hey Ronnie!

 Thanks for the reply!  I appreciate it  

Vic

As stated, be careful when buying it...  I bought some from cabela's about 2 years ago that was in reality, cg-2 or 3 and was not worth 1/4 of what I paid for it.   >  And I also bought some from another source with the same result.  I've still never actually seen "Flor grade" in person.

Since there is no industry standard, everyone (with a few exceptions) overstates what they have, leaving the builder stuck and disappointed.

That's why I only use Lamar Exotic Burl in my own grips.  It's exactly what it is described as.  Rarely is there any noticable variance.  It's tougher, better looking (IMO) and less expensive than "good" natural cork.