Attention rod builders - grip turning questions

Sean · 10-25-2001, 10:32 AM

I have been building graphite fly rods from blanks / kits for a while now. Getting ready to rig a lathe to turn my own custom cork grips using a variable speed drill and some sort of stand, yet to be determined... Wondering what any experts out there might suggest I use as a mandrel (correct term?) to mount the pre-shaped grip on for turning. I dont imagine that I will be forming the grip once I have glued it to the blank - seems difficult with a fly rod. Thanks for the input in advance!

garyk · 10-25-2001, 10:52 AM

You probably know this already, Sean, but threaded rod is the standard, for either starting from scratch with cork rings, or final finishing of a pre-formed grip.

riets · 10-25-2001, 07:55 PM

i've always had good luck by gluing the cork rings to the blank, and then inserting a mandril inside the blank (made by taking a slightly undersized drill bit and wrapping it with masking tape, until it was a snug fit inside the blank). i then chucked this into my drill motor, and supported the blank with a towel. the drill motor needs to be held down on the bench, and run at medium speed. i have made dozens of rods this way.
good luck

Sean · 10-25-2001, 11:21 PM

Gary, actually I do not know that - can you go into more detail?

Sean · 10-26-2001, 01:06 PM

Thanks, gang! Great advice.

fishbait · 10-26-2001, 01:26 PM

I agree with Riets. I glue the rings to the blank then turn. I have some old broken pieces of rods that I use to support the blank when turning. Wrap with tape and insert. I also use a pillow block to support other end. Again build up with masking tape. If you buy a pillow block, get one with as loose a bearing as possible so it spins easily. I mounted myne to a piece of 2X6. Remember, go easy, this is not oak, but cork, I ruened a few grips before I gotr more careful. Sandpaper works well.