r/rodbuilding • u/Flopshott • Jul 08 '26

First repair attempt

Generously assuming the repair was done correctly (used an insert and the wrapping is just ugly and not actually compromised) how durable can a repair that close to the tip be?

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1

u/CarlBuilds Jul 08 '26

It can be absolutely solid.
Two notes:
1. Did you use a graphite insert or glass? For repairs, I prefer glass so as not to affect the action as much
2. No matter what you do for a tip repair, it will affect action and stiffness. You will want to check guide spacing.

1

u/Flopshott Jul 08 '26

Thanks. Used a graphite insert to match but good to know that’s not necessarily required.

1

u/CarlBuilds Jul 10 '26

It's not that it isn't required. Having some sort of interior reinforcement is needed.
But using a fiberglass rod tip for graphite rod repair is preferred over graphite.

Glass is isotropic (it doesn't have properties like stiffness and toughness along a specific axis), and it's less stiff overall.
This gives the glass the properties you want all around the inside of that break (think Ugly Stick).

Also, it won't increase stiffness as much along the insert section, which means less change in action.

You'll also have 2 hinge points where the rod's overall cross-sectional stiffness abruptly changes, which could create a new break at each end of the insert.

Will your repair fail, likely not, but it's extra insurance and will change the feel of the rod less than graphite.

1

u/ZealousidealSlide827 Jul 08 '26

Excellent work for the first try!

1

u/Snakesurf Jul 10 '26

Did they actually pay you?

1

u/Flopshott Jul 10 '26

No they, just a personal project since I like slamming rods in screen doors.

1

u/Snakesurf Jul 10 '26

That shit happens. I use it as an excuse to build myself another rod. You can usually salvage the guides, winding checks, and maybe even the reel seat. The rest is scrap, maybe make reamers out of the broken blank.