Finally got my first build done. The foregrip wouldn't fit on the MVT Toray reel seat so I had to go with an Alps GTB16C. The blank is from North Fork Composites. It is the 709HM. It feels more like a 4 power rod than a 9. For those interested in these blanks, they are way underpowered, especially in the HM from what I hear.

For the guides I used one double footed 7, then a single footed 6, then 5's for the running guides. All the guides are Fuji with titanium frames and SiC inserts. I held off on the spiral wrap and fancy thread inlays. I used short wraps and thread master light build for the epoxy, and the rod turned out to be really well balanced.

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Nice build I like that handle

Nice build I like that handle

Thanks man. The MVT reel seat would have matched up really well. It has a carbon fiber insert on the side. Too bad it wouldn't fit.

That looks sharp man.  I like the handle set up too.

Dang you went all out on the first one. Looks really good.

Dang you went all out on the first one. Looks really good.

It's really not that hard to do a simple build. I thought about going custom, but I figured I'd give it a try. I'm hooked now. Got a Matagi catalog coming in the mail. They have some sweet bling parts. Next build should be fun.

Take A Bow , Super Nice Work.

 

Mike

Wow. Impressive 1st build. I have that same foregrip. I like it okay, a little bulkier than expected.

Nice build.  I like that grip as well.

Great build!!! Looks nice!

Next time you can go with the MVT for your blank.The dual locking nut is a better route, but we understand the foregrip option wanted.  We can write you a blueprint off the blank and get you all setup!! The blank though might be big for the insert, but I believe the ALPS MVT has the seat without the insert to fit larger blanks!  

Finally got my first build done. The foregrip wouldn't fit on the MVT Toray reel seat so I had to go with an Alps GTB16C. The blank is from North Fork Composites. It is the 709HM. It feels more like a 4 power rod than a 9. For those interested in these blanks, they are way underpowered, especially in the HM from what I hear.

For the guides I used one double footed 7, then a single footed 6, then 5's for the running guides. All the guides are Fuji with titanium frames and SiC inserts. I held off on the spiral wrap and fancy thread inlays. I used short wraps and thread master light build for the epoxy, and the rod turned out to be really well balanced.
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Newest edition to the build. The LED light i work under makes the colors look different, but it's black Fuji poly no cp with fishhawk gun metal no cp as the highlight thread. It matches up really well with the rest of the build. I'm pretty happy with it.

Thumbs up for sure.  Now if you think the bait monkey is a difficult animal to keep out of your head, you aren't prepared for his big brother named Rod.

Thumbs up for sure. Now if you think the bait monkey is a difficult animal to keep out of your head, you aren't prepared for his big brother named Rod.

This is funny and true. I've been spending a lot of time going through Matagi's online catalog for my next build. Apparently, Rod's JDM cousin, Matagi, is even more evil.

Great first build! Now time for your 2nd! Make the MVT fit!! Its worth the money!