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Jaayson Neiuwkirk

Chapter Ten: Building the Rod Handle

The rod handle is a critical component of your bamboo fly rod, providing comfort and control while casting. This chapter will guide you through choosing materials, shaping the handle, and attaching it to the rod.


Choosing Cork and Other Materials

The handle is typically made from cork, valued for its lightweight, comfortable grip, and aesthetic appeal. You can also incorporate other materials like wood, rubber, or composite cork.

Selecting Cork

  • Grade: Choose high-quality cork rings. Grades range from Flor (the highest quality with minimal blemishes) to Standard (more imperfections).

  • Size: Determine the length and diameter of the handle based on your preferences and the rod’s specifications.



Additional Materials

  • Reel Seat: Select a reel seat that matches the rod’s design and fits the reel you intend to use. Reel seats come in various materials, including aluminum, nickel silver, and wood.

  • Inserts and Trim: Consider adding wooden inserts or trim pieces for aesthetic enhancement.


Shaping the Handle

Shaping the handle involves stacking and gluing cork rings, then turning them on a lathe to achieve the desired shape.

Gluing the Cork Rings

  • Arrange the Rings: Stack the cork rings on a threaded rod or mandrel in the order they will be glued.

  • Apply Glue: Use a waterproof glue or epoxy to coat the surfaces between each cork ring.

  • Clamp and Dry: Compress the stack of cork rings using clamps and allow the glue to dry completely, usually overnight.


Turning the Handle on a Lathe

  • Mount the Handle: Secure the glued cork stack on a lathe.

  • Rough Shaping: Use a roughing gouge to remove excess material and shape the handle roughly.

  • Fine Shaping: Switch to finer tools, such as spindle gouges and scrapers, to refine the handle’s shape.

  • Sanding: Sand the handle progressively from coarse to fine grit, ensuring a smooth, comfortable finish.


Attaching the Handle to the Rod

Attaching the handle involves securing the cork handle and reel seat to the rod blank.

Preparing the Rod Blank

  • Measure and Mark: Measure the section of the rod blank where the handle and reel seat will be attached. Mark the positions clearly.

  • Sanding: Lightly sand the rod blank to ensure a good bond with the epoxy.


Attaching the Reel Seat

  • Apply Epoxy: Mix and apply epoxy to the rod blank and the inside of the reel seat.

  • Slide and Align: Slide the reel seat onto the rod blank, aligning it properly. Wipe away any excess epoxy.

  • Clamp and Cure: Use clamps or tape to hold the reel seat in place while the epoxy cures, typically 24 hours.


Attaching the Handle

  • Apply Epoxy: Apply epoxy to the rod blank and the inside of the cork handle.

  • Slide and Align: Slide the handle onto the rod blank, ensuring it fits snugly against the reel seat. Wipe away excess epoxy.

  • Clamp and Cure: Secure the handle in place with clamps or tape and allow the epoxy to cure

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