High build vs Lite/Low

[Gooey]

I have always used Flex Coat Highbuild. I don't like a lot of epoxy on my wraps so I often work it with a flame and thin things out.

I just started a rebuild on a diawa beef stick...this will be my first heavy rod and it will be my first rod with an under wrap as well. I used low build on the under wraps today and I like the depth in terms of how it finishes.

So my question is this...is the thickness of the epoxy over your wraps stickly cosmetic/personal preference or on a heavy action rod (30-50lb) would high build be better for the top coat?

Thanks all.

[StickFish]

Like you I use a coat of lite build on the underwraps. On my guide wraps I use a coat of lite and a coat of high. What I like about using the lite is that it penetrates the thread better and wicks into the tunnels. Since the thread soaks up the finish I end up with some spots where you can feel the thread - that is why I go back over it with the high build.

This wrap is triple wrapped - one coat of lite build on the underwrap - no finish between the 2nd and third layers, one coat of light, one coat of high.

http://www.ifish.net/gallery/data/500/P1000081.JPG

The amount of finish - I agree too much doesn't look good - however, not enough can crack to easily. Fine line

[Hookmiester]

Gooey,

good question, I was just getting ready to ask the same thing. Good info from Stick as usual.

jon

[Raymond Adams]

So my question is this...is the thickness of the epoxy over your wraps stickly cosmetic/personal preference or on a heavy action rod (30-50lb) would high build be better for the top coat?

Thanks all.[/quote]

The purpose of finish is more than just cosmetic. It's there to protect and seal the thread. Due to the rough treatment heavier boat rods are subject to, I would lean towards a heavier coat of finish (although not a lot) than what I would on lite rods.

I second the "fine line" comment above and the lighter the rod the finer the line. Heavy rods can take more finish without sacraficing looks or performance. Just don't go overboard.

Note also that if CP is used the viscosity of the finish has no bearing on being able to "soak" into the thread as the thread is already sealed by the CP.

[StickFish]

Good point on the CP Ray - I try to not use it, instead opting for NCP thread. Except when I have to use Maderia. I've heard that Diamondite can be used over Mederia without CP, but have not tested that myself (came from Putter so I can trust that).

Another important point on finish is that is does add weight, weight decreases sensitivity, so something else to think about with your sensitive drift rods and fly rods.

[Tinman]

I have several rods I wrapped 20 -25 years ago. The ones with thick finish on the guides held up much better than the thinner finish.

Of course rods go soft after a decade or two, so it may be a moot point. But I do have an ancient Kennedy-Fisher that started life as a jig stick for throwing the iron, and has softened to the point where it is ideal for salmon and for throwing swimbaits.