I'm just getting around to working on the new Batson RX-8 blank from a few weeks ago. I can't decide on a light or dark grip with the "ti-chrome finish" so I made up 2 sets, identical pattern, but opposite colors. I should have pictured the front grips but anyway they have a single 1/4" trim band instead of the double 1/8" bands.

Which looks better on this finish, light or dark? (sorry for the pic quality)

Flechero, as much as I love those dark grips I think the lighter may stand out better on that blank. Looks like an Evergreen rod with that blank color and that lighter cork. That will be a sweet stick no matter what color you decide on.

Pic quality looks fine on my monitor.

I should have said light or contrast... something is off (the odd gray background and the sunlight)

Thanks, I'll have to look up the evergreen rods and see how they look.

The lighter color for me.

I like the light cork also. Here is the one in my lathe right now. Light Jig rod on a Shikari MB863 blank. Go with the light cork. JMHO

Ronnie

I am leaning towards the lighter for this rod.  I do like the burnt better on most of the unpainted blanks and the blue ones for sure.

Sweet looking rod there Ronnie.  

I guess I'm the odd man out here.

I like the dark grips on that blank.

I guess I'm the odd man out here.

I like the dark grips on that blank.

x2  

Black EVA with brushed aluminum winding checks would sure be sweet....

Keith,

The rod is for you, so in the end it will be your preference. But if I were setting the grips I would have to flip a coin and it would depend on the guide wrap color/s. Both look really good on that blank .

Tight Wraps!  

If you think I'm indecisive with cork, thread is worse...  that's why 8 out of 10 times I build them stealth!   ;D

Black EVA with brushed aluminum winding checks would sure be sweet....

It would look cool but I only use EVA on cranking rods.  I've always felt way more with cork, and this rod will be a worm jig rod of some sort.

Keith, looking good.

I am on the "light" side as well.  Just like the look of light cork with dark rings.

But, also echo what David said - it's yours so do what you like.  Either way, this is going to be sharp!  

Eddie

Ronnie - that is sweeet!

I like the burnt.  Everybody has light cork on their rods, burnt is unique.  It yells out "custom" at even a micro quick glance.  It is the first thing everybody looks at on my DG rods, even before they notice the spiral wraps.

dark

If it was me, I would go with the dark. Either way it will be sweet.

Falcon

go with the lighter