Hey all, I'm new to rod building. I've built 2 rods thus far and have ordered components for number 3. This will be my first rod using cork grips. Do I need to use some kind of sealer when I'm done? If so where would I find it? The site that I order from doesn't offer anything. 

Cork is naturally impervious the water, dies, dry rot, etc. It's stiff and stable for it's weight, no sealers are needed, but there is a product called U-40 Cork Seal that has a following, as it is reported to help keep them looking nice longer.

U-40 Cork Seal is a good product.

I have been using it for years.

Every cork handled rod I own ( going back 10 years) has a coating.

Still have many of them and I've not experienced cork failure on any stick.

It's a one time (when it's new) application for me.

Darkens the cork ever so slightly but does seem to increase the corks longevity.

This product will not over come mishandling but when combined with reasonable rod care, it's a nice addition.

A-Jay

 

X2 on the u40.  Some like to put a coat of Tru Oil gunstock oil on.  It will most likely darken the cork a little, make the "grain" stand out a little more, and harden the surface a little.

 

If the cork is pretty high quality, you don't really need to put anything on it, and it will wash up nicely when it gets grungy.  The coatings will prevent the getting grungy to some degree.  I usually use one or the other.  Exotic burl cork absorbs these coatings more than regular cork, and the Tru Oil especially really brings out the "grain" of the burl.

Thanks guys. I went all out on this one and I don't want to screw it up.

Another retired Coastie, Semper Par-ding-ding at you brother.

I use both U-40 and Tru Oil. Mick is right on the money about Tru Oil. It makes burl cork look better. Since I use different types of burl almost exclusively, I use Tru Oil almost all the time.