|
|
|
| Return to Fishing rods handles main page.
How much more does a wood grip weigh than cork? That will vary depending on the species of wood. A range is from 1/2 - 1 1/2 oz. On one fly grip I made with a graphite insert the difference was just 1/4 oz. I also compared graphite to cork, as the insert material, and found the cork to weigh slightly less, we're talking a few grams, and I figure the time spent turning the cork is not worth the benefit. If that's what you want, I can sure do it. Inserts can be put into any style of handle to reduce weight. It'll just cost a little more. Won't the added weight be noticeable while I'm using the rod? It could be. If your fishing style is casting and you do it for hours on end, maybe. With certain styles of fishing, achieving a perfect balance can be detrimental. Setup of the rod, how this additional weight is used to balance the rod to your style of fishing, can offset this added weight and enhance the feel and fatigue of your rod. Isn't the wood harder than cork which would make it uncomfortable? Wood is harder than cork. As far as uncomfortable .... I don't think so, and many others who have bought or made their own wood grips don't think so either. Wood transmits the vibrations caused by a sinker hitting a rock or wood thus helping in the overall sensitivity of the rod. A fly fisherman told me that on his best rod with a wood handle he could even feel the current of the water. Think about this. How many hammers do you see with cork grips. Have you ever seen a shovel with a cork grip? Won't a wood grip be more slippery when it's wet? Experience has shown me that wet in and of it's self doesn't make the grip slip more than cork. Now, add fish slime, especially from a northern or musky, and not wash or wipe your hand off, and you could have a grip made with sandpaper and it'll be slippery! The answer is, with a little common sense, no. Water and wood don't mix. Will the wood grips last? Most of the wood will be sealed with True Oil. This is a time proven product which is used extensively in the finishing of gun stocks. Stabilizing of the wood is also available. This process makes the wood into an almost plastic product. The down side is that it will add weight and some species won't stabilize due to oils and density, and it will add to the cost. The plus side is it turns the wood into an almost everlasting product. With proper care any wood grip should last as long as your rod. Hints:
**Don't store the rod butt down in a bucket of water.
Honestly, if you use a little common sense and take care of it, it'll not only
last forever, but look like it did the day you bought it.
|
|
|
