I'm building a MH moderate cranking spin rod for my brother and while my first spin rod I built uses an SK2 I think he would prefer a more traditional handle in size 17. I saw here that many prefer the VSS uplocking and I'm wondering what standard components you use to build it? Or if there is a not too complicated similar build I can get off the standard shops.

 

It looks like the rear grip of the VSS would become a foregrip but is anything needed on the rear? He'll be using it mostly for bass up to 7lb, nothing salt or big-game.

 

For reference I attached some configs (but in downlocking) from anglersresource.

Do the bottom one

Uplocking works great if you prefer a more forward grip and shorter butt.  You don’t technically need any cork behind the seat. The nub at most. If you prefer a more rearward grip say with the stem between the pointer and middle finger, install down locking. 

Or size 17 DPSSD up locking with split grip like this.  Place the seat position based on another rod you like.  Measure from the butt to the installed reel stem, not the seat end,

7 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

Uplocking works great if you prefer a more forward grip and shorter butt.  You don’t technically need any cork behind the seat. The nub at most. If you prefer a more rearward grip say with the stem between the pointer and middle finger, install down locking. 

Thanks DVT. I'll ask his preference before building it. I ordered the VSS Deluxe (all they had in stock), the Fuji nub and VSS contour cork grip so I guess I have both options before building.

I think the comment on more forward grip/shorter butt may be limited to the VSS because with the type of build I showed the reel seat can be up locking and the reel may be positioned anywhere you want it.  

3 hours ago, MickD said:

I think the comment on more forward grip/shorter butt may be limited to the VSS because with the type of build I showed the reel seat can be up locking and the reel may be positioned anywhere you want it.  

Yes, my reply is specific to the VSS. Measuring to the stem for other seats accomplishes the same thing in taking hand position into account. 

The VSS and IPS seats have been used uplocking for many years by many companies, G Loomis right now is using the VSS extensively. what you put behind the seat is of no real concern except for your aesthetic pleasure. many have used a hidden thread option of many kinds, I have used the HPS option the most because it has been around much longer for both the VSS and IPS seats.

My preference would be a KDPS hidden thread sleeve with a matching cover. To me, it looks cleaner and more importantly, is more comfortable. 

 

I see you have already purchased the VSS, I prefer the AmTak Aero. Mick's suggestion of the DPSSD looks nice, I think I will mock one up the next time I build a spinning rod.

Once you install a foregrip like the HPS you have an almost smooth transition from front to back that is also a larger, more comfortable diameter than a DPSSD seat can every give you. Almost like a Tennessee grip without the tape to hold the reel on and stick to your hand. The fore grip is almost two blocked to the IPS/VSS seat when you install a reel and is the identical diameter of the cork/reel seat.

Thanks again for all the replies, it was a last minute decision to build and I had to pick something quick and order that same day to allow for delivery time then build time before I leave on the trip to meet him. I think he'll be happy with the VSS uplocking config and this AT844-3 blank considering he's coming from an Ugly Stik ?‍?

 

Will re-read all of the replies if I end up building a second spinning rod - which I may actually do after I get back or if he ends up not liking this one.

I prefer the AT Aero after trying others.  I don't do the Comfort just the plastic with no front cork.  The CRB palm swell is about the same.