Which Rod Equipment?

[DRAGMAN]

Hi all. I have been reading the rod building forum on Ausfish for a while as I have always had an interest in rod building as I have some mates who do it and some of the rods they create I am quite jealous of. The thought of being able to create your own rod and catch fish on it inspires me quite a lot as I absolutely love my fishing. My only problem is work getting in the rode.

I have been looking at what kind of of rod building (lathe etc) to buy and am getting a little confused as I am not familar with all facets of rod building.

I have been looking at the Alps - Renzetti and the Pacific Bay brands but not sure. I want a lathe/wrapper which can do it all (even cork handles) as I only want to outlay once.

What set up should I be looking at? Does anyone have advice on the best places to buy? $1000 is about the limit incl postage.

Any advice is welcome.

[trout head]

Dragman , I use the Alps lathe and are very happy with it , but I don't know about sanding grips on it , for that I have another set up ,

[sid_fishes]

I to have the alps lathe but with the upgrade chuck.it has done a bit of grip shaping but i now have a wood lathe [has a lot more grunt] [thanks goes to scott]
You cant go wrong with them i think
cheers ian

[DRAGMAN]

Thanks for the advice. I have read posts about the alps lathes being up to the job. As for the corking well l might have to think about that one a bit more. Thanks for the advice.

[grave41]

Whether you use the alps or Pacific Bay you will need the upgraded chuck.I turn all sorts of handles on my Pac Bay with the upgraded chuck.
Graham

[Mark Fisher]

Look for a GMC wood lathe. Cost you about $100 and lasts for years. Mine is about 6 years old now and still going strong. For $100, the best investment ever if you want to turn some handles. If it dies, just get a new one.

Regards
Mark

[DRAGMAN]

Thanks for the advice. Mark.....I thought GMC went out of business with GFC. You must be talking second hand. I had wondered about having a strong enough lathe. I might start with the upgraded chuck and then look at my options.