Hey guys. Curious what the natural blanks look like, or if anyone has even used one since the paint option is available and such a big push. I see they have 2 piece options in the carbon 2 line, and I need another travel rod. I've heard from a few folks who stripped down some St Croix blanks that they were rather unsightly upon completion. Not opposed to paint, just curious. Thx 

Stripped down SCIV blanks are fugly!!

The Rodgeeks natural blank isn't raw, it is a matte clear.  Think SCIII from 10 or so years ago or the old Rainshadow RX7 finish.

Don't know what you're looking for, but they now offer a few models in a 4pc travel series. http://rodgeeks.com/blanks/travel-series/

I've got a natural blank here now. There are a couple swirls visible on it but it's on par with other natural / matte finishes I've seen. 

Thanks guys. Much appreciated 

have no idea some one would say St. Croix blanks look ugly stripped down to raw graphite , mine looks like any other raw blank , beautiful !! just my opinion but i think raw blanks look way better than cheesy paint jobs ...

Natural blanks look very nice especially with a coat of permagloss or equivalent to give some gloss and bring out the beauty of the texture.  If you're going to try stripping a rod and finishing it, two things:  Don't sand into the "cloth," take only the finish.  Second, never use wrap epoxy to finish it.  Too soft, heavier build than necessary, and very difficult to get a smooth finish.  Permagloss or equivalent is the way to go.  Thin coat, work fast with a disposable foam brush.

for me , I use Citristrip and a very fine (Gray) scotchbrite and take my time ..