my w.f. hardy 3 piece flyrod

Question
my flyrod that i recently purchased is measureing 9ft 4 inches and when i did some research on the rod it came up as being made in 1892 (model no#1879795)and has the W.F. HARDY signature on side shaft.it stated that it was made in lengths of 7, 7 1/2,8,8 1/2, and 9  so i have a 9ft 4 inch problem rod.i was wanting to refinish it and shorten rod seeing as though the rod lengthwise has been tampered with before.i was wanting to make a 8 1/2 inch rod but dont have any specs on the measurements of what i need to make each section or eye positions to make it as close to a factory 8 1/2 hardy as i can . will cutting it hurt the value of this old rod.whats your thoughts on the matter

Answer
Tom,
1879795 is not a Hardy model number. Since 1904 they had a preceding letter.  I imagine it is a patent number but Hardy serial numbers in 1892 are 17197 to 19000. You have too many digits. I have 4 separate sources for the above statement as well as direct experience, for:
http://www.flyfishinghistory.com/hardy_rod_manufacturing_dates.htm

My suggestion is you ID the rod and make sure it is not worth  thousands.
Some books that will help, are probably  at larger libraries:
Price Book:
Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide by Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.

Classic & Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors & Anglers by A.J. Campbell
Fishing Tackle: A Collector's Guide  Hardcover, 1991 Graham Turner

Have you measured the rod put together to get 9'4'? I imagine you will find you have a 9 ft rod.
Are all the sections the same length? I have seen several Hardy rods where the butt is longer than the mid, which is longer than the tip. US rod makers would not do this but  your rod was designed in the UK.

Before you refinish it , is it impregnated ? - should be on the label. If yes then you are in big trouble trying to dip or spray a modern finish on the exterior.

If I hear you right , you are going to remove some length from all 3 sections. A better idea might be to pull your pistol , point it at your foot and pull the trigger. LOL

But seriously, cutting it will eliminate any resale value . It will destroy the original taper and will not cast better .

May I ask how much you paid for this? and since you got the label on the rod , what is the rod model ? Palakona?

That's a creative  thought but I can't recommend it.
Let me know what you do and how it worked for you if you go through with it.  email is [email protected]
Luck,
Mac
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