true temper steel casting rod

Question
This is an American Fork and Hoe Co., True Temper rod that has a 4"x1/2" steel shank that needs a cork handle replaced over it. Do you know where I might find one. From Surprise, Az.

Answer
Hi John,

You may not be able to find exactly the same thing that was on the rod originally...but, any of the rod building supply firms (including mine) shouod be able to provide a premade cork handle that will work.  You might have to do some sanding and defintely will have to glue it in place but it's not hard to do.  A premade handle will come with a center hole drilled in it the full length.  If the hole is smaller than the diameter of the shaft you are mounting it on, you will need to ream it out using a rat tail file.  Use any two part epoxy that is water proof or water resistant to attach the handle to the rod.  Have some coffee filters and Isopropyl alchohol handy to wipe off any excess glue.

Take a look at the online catalogs of places like Angler's Workshop, Mudhole, Jann's Netcraft, Batson Enterprises, Acidrod and Black Dog Tackle.  Look for the shape and size that comes closest to matching your rod.

Thanks, Joe