Building Bamboo: Part Two

I had to wait a few days for the Cascamite I ordered from eBay to turn up, but when it did, I got straight to gluing the cork rings onto the blank. It was a simple enough affair.

Today I shaped the handle using a simple drill set up. I have access to a workshop and I started by making a support for the blank to protect the rod when turning the handle. I have seen a few of these set-ups online and I thought it was they way to go. After creating the V shape stands I realized that I didn't need them. I put the blank into the drill chuck at high RPM, the blank balanced itself nicely and turned straight. I got to work with 120 grit sandpaper to give the rough cigar shape and finished it with 180 grit and a final rub of 360 grit to give a nice smooth finish. I am very happy with the outcome.

Next step: Glue on the reel seat and ferrules.