Awhile back I found an 1164 lami, I figured it would make a nice pencil popping rod and would be a good first build for me since it needed some guides replaced. I found Dale Clemens book "advanced custom rod building" through my local library, I have it on hold.
My questions are what kind of guides should I use, I'll most likely have it paired up with my 704 and 20lbs fireline?
Would cutting about a foot off the butt ruin the action?
Anyone know of any rod building classes in connecticut during the winter months?Thanks

Rivers end has classes, or at least they did last season.

Probably go k frames for guides. Or lowriders. Help lightened the rod up a bit
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Cutting a foot off the butt shouldn't affect the parabolic bend. I took a foot off the butt of a SSB 136 2F, which is really the S-glass version of the old 1164. Someone on SB bought it from me in the spring.

I wouldn't take much more than that off it, though.

On a rod like that you might as well just go with BSVLG's. You could go BKWAG's but with the 704 on such a slow action rod the BSVLG's should be fine.

The hardaloy always worked great on those blanks. Remember it's not a fast action blank. Forgiveness is what you need. as far as cutting it up well I always liked the action as it is.nice rod an very versitile. Good for slingin eels an with both plugs an metal lips.Ron

Thanks for the responses guys. I'll probably go with the hardaloys, just going to strip the rod for now and wait till winter to wrap it.