I have to admit that the last thing I look at when admiring a rod build is the quality of the cork. The thread wraps, finish and a sharp crispness on the hexes of the blank, the reel seat insert meshing with the hardware....those all make more of an impression on me. I do like grips that are unusual, like Steve's mortised wood grips and the occasional rattan or mixed wood and cork grips. I haven't learned to really appreciate Flor grad grips enough to warrant the cost of it, but since I'm putting a lot of work into my rods, spending $80 on a grip for Flor grade vs $25 for A grade isn't that much of a difference. I just have a hard time spending the extra dollars, especially when I see pictures of vintage rods and the cork looks like B grade.
What do you guys think?
I'm about ready to purchase more cork rings and 100 Flor grade rings (and they don't look THAT great.....) costs $250. Really nice Flor grade seems to be more like $4/ring. The A grade rings I usually purchase were a little over $1.50/ring.
What do you guys think?
I'm about ready to purchase more cork rings and 100 Flor grade rings (and they don't look THAT great.....) costs $250. Really nice Flor grade seems to be more like $4/ring. The A grade rings I usually purchase were a little over $1.50/ring.