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Adhere to Blank |
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To mount the grip to the blank, determine where on the blank the grip begins to bind. From that point on, apply a high quality glue. I personally prefer a two-part epoxy, such as PC-5 or PC-7. Lately I have begun using an epoxy called "Super Poxy." All of these are available from Home Depot, HQ (formerly Hechinger's), or any relatively large hardware store, or from K-Mart. Some rod builders use Elmers glue or carpenter's white glue. My conscience doesn't let me use these. They are water soluble or break down over time, or in some cases they do not adhere well to closed-cell foam or the slippery surface of the rod blank. I believe that the rod I build will be in use for generations, so I choose to use a slightly more expensive bonding agent: chemical cure (as opposed to air cure) two-part epoxy. I also prefer to prepare the surface of the rod blank where the grip will be seated with emory cloth. Again, 600 grit lightly drawn across the surface will create a greater surface area for the epoxy to bind to. Slide the grip smoothly and evenly — in one movement if possible — to the final resting place on the blank. Push from the top edge of the grip only; DO NOT try to grasp the grip in the middle, as this will bind the grip to the rod and inhibit the movement of the grip. A slight twisting motion will spread the glue more evenly around the shaft of the blank and across the inner surface of the grip. A "push board (1"x4" board with a hole drilled in the center) will facilitate this action. Make any final adustments in diameter/shape on a rod lathe. |
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