Removing trim from a finished factory rod? is it worth the trouble?

[Akuracy503]

I have a few questions for the rod building community.
Please note that I have never built a rod nor know any concepts of finishing a rod.

There is a Sage factory built rod I am considering to purchase, however the rod has gold colored single thread (can't remember if it was double) wraps throughout the blank.

I really dislike gold wraps, could any custom builder remove the wraps under the laquer finish? is it a difficult/costly process? Any harm to the blank or overall finish?

I would appreciate any feedback and if you are a builder who has done this before please send me a PM if you can be of service...I'd like to know the cost associated and the turnaround time.

Thank you.

[69scout]

It is not too difficult.
Use a sharp razor to cut away the epoxy. But be very careful not to cut into the blank.

[StickFish]

Not hard, check this thread.

http://www.ifish.net/board/showthread.php?t=151473&highlight=wrap

[Gooey]

I just had a warranty replacement on a top half of a sage 2106...cost me $50 to have the guides stripped off the broken blank and then rewrapped on the replacement. I think there are only 3 guides on the bottom half and 8 on the top so maybe an entire rod would be $75 ish?

Is this a second hand rod that you are not paying original retail for (ie $400+)? That would be the only reason to entertain buying this rod and having it rewrapped. If you are going to buy new then make a custom order with a rod builder and save paying for the same job twice!