Seriously thinking about trying U40 cork sealer.  Got a couple of rods that I want to protect, but have always been under the impression that using a sealer would change the feel of the handle.

 

Does it?  No?  It seems like an affordable way to protect my investment but definitely not interested in changing the way it feels.  Thanks for any input.

All my rods are cork (loomis.  Megabass, Dobyns, Kistler, Powell).  and I use u40 on all of them.   I don’t feel a difference.   I recommend u40. 

It does make a difference. Whether someone will notice the difference is a different question. I think a lot of folks won't. I do, and hate the feel of anything on my cork handles.

10 hours ago, Deeare said:

All my rods are cork (loomis.  Megabass, Dobyns, Kistler, Powell).  and I use u40 on all of them.   I don’t feel a difference.   I recommend u40. 

This

I recently started using U40 on all cork rods and its an awesome product. Use a super light coat. Changes the feel slightly but barely noticeable. I've applied to 10+ rods so far. Jar goes a long way.

25 minutes ago, thunderblack said:

I recently started using U40 on all cork rods and its an awesome product. Use a super light coat. Changes the feel slightly but barely noticeable. I've applied to 10+ rods so far. Jar goes a long way.

I own a jar, I was wondering about EVA/cork hybrid (like HMG's handle)?

I've done some of the butt ends on rods where the cork is different with no issues. I had an HMG with the cork you are referring to and I never had any issues with that rod pitting just a little discoloration. Could always try a small area but I bet you would be fine.  

The advantage of high quality premium cork fishing rod handles is they don't need any sealers for protection. Cork is easy to clean with mild soap and warm water. You can lightly sand it with fine 600 sand paper or use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser pads to remove any discoloration. I have cork handle rods that decades old and look great that have never been sealed, only cleaned occasionally.

The problem today is finding premium cork without fillers. If the cork has fillers then it should be sealed with U40 to help reduce degradation. You feel a slickness with U40 sealer with wet hands.

Rubberized cork or Syn cork doesn't need any sealer.

Tom

As I mentioned in another post, I tried U-40 and was pleased with the results on the first two test rods.  I sealed all my rods after a good cleaning.  As far as feel or the cork, I can tell the handle sealed over a non-sealed handle but the texture is so negligible it's certainly not a factor in not sealing the handles. Just apply it sparingly with a cheap foam paint brush and let it air dry. It's worth the money to protect your investment.

I cleaned the cork with Mr Clean Magic Eraser, let dry then gave a very thin coat. I do not notice any feel difference in the cork. The key is to apply a very thin coat.