here is the handle assembly for the first of hopefully many.

7' 15 - 25lb graphite blank heavy action

i like the cork, whad u use?

cork.

12" for the butt and 2" foregrip. the seat is an 18 graphite. butt capp is a polished something or other.

what a pain to align the guides!:conf:

now on to the wrapping.

just get a general idea... your gonna have to move em again.

well I finally got the stripper guide on. :hs: on the second take.

takes a while to get them exactly where you want them or pretty close. I think that I'm wrapping too tight because I can't move it around after. Does that sound right?

They shouldn't be wrapped too tight so that you can adjust them. firm

Thats what MrHunters was saying. I did the second guide less tight and they are both pretty much aligned. 2 down, 5 to go.

what do yo do if the thread gets "fluffy"? Will it look bad when finished or does it not matter?

all wrapped up. now I need to do the finish. MrHunters, is your 4 rpm motor available?

sure, i'm still waiting fot my next set of components...have you finished your decorative?

i don't know what you mean by fluffy but i found mistakes were a bit exagerated after the finish

no decorative yet. I'll do that first.

Well its done. I think it came out pretty ok. I think its gonna be a good rod for plugging and trolling heavier lures.

and 2 closer ups. The reel is an Okuma AE55. It is smooth, 11 BB

lookin good, nice and tight on the wraps.

no diamonds? ;)

nope.

Theres a striper sticker that will be in the middle silver.

nice cabo too if my eyes are correct.

Nope. Its an Okuma Aveon 55. Seems really nice, 11 BB and 380 yards of 10 lb test.

I assembled handle 2 yesterday, my wrist is killing me now! Oh well, stupid cork reamers.

I assembled handle 2 yesterday, my wrist is killing me now! Oh well, stupid cork reamers.

way ahead of ya :hidin:

so I'll see you tomorrow night then.?

here is the finished product of rod #1. Had a little trouble with fuzzy thread but with a bit of 800 grit sandpaper, came out almost smooth. thanks for the help MrHunters, and the drying motor!