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Post by ctroy36 on Jan 31, 2007 16:26:39 GMT -5
Been haunting the thrift shops down here looking for an old bamboo rod to restore. Found one today. Three piece, probably 8 ft. in a canvas bag with no markings. Label on butt section said "Belknap, Louisville." In fair shape with ferrules intact and some guides missing. The shop wants $85 for it.
A quick check on Google didn't turn up any info. Any of you bamboo gurus got an idea of what it is and what it might be worth?
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Post by FishinCane on Jan 31, 2007 16:34:11 GMT -5
It looks like they may still be in business... www.belknaplure.com/home.htmI've not heard of them but bamboo rods < 9ft tend to be a bit better in quality. Make sure it's boo and not glass. If everything looks good make them an offer less than the asking price. |
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Post by AgMD on Jan 31, 2007 18:14:24 GMT -5
Here are some things to look for and consider when buying a project rod.
Is the cane solid, are all the sections equal length? Delaminations even some splintering can be fixed but this is generally not a good choice for a first project.
Are the ferrules solid? You will probably reset the ferrules anyway so if the bamboo/metal connection is loose -- no big deal. If the male/female fit of the ferrule is loose this can be dealt with. If the ferrules are cracked they will have to be replaced. Not cheap, a whole set of quality nickle silver ferrules can run more than the rod cost and can make the project more expensive than the rod is worth.
Cork can be replaced. Easy even for a first timer. Estimate $4/ linear inch in materials. More if you want premium cork.
Real seats can be replaced, though removing the original can be a pain. But then I recently removed one using my fingers -- go figure.
Guides can be replaced and probably will need to be replaced or reconditioned. New snakes --$10 -->$20, Stripper $2 --> $50, Tip top $2. Save the old guides if you replace them. You will need them for the next rod. If you restore them , matching guides can be found.
The rod. Is it going to be a rod that you want to fish. If you fish small brookie waters a 9' 8wt rod may not be the best choice.
Some rods are just dogs. No way around it. They are heavy, clunky and cast like a broom handle.
$80 is a bit high for a project rod -- UNLESS it is a rod of some merit. Collectible, nice caster, fits a particular fishing need, or for any irrational reason it is a rod you just gotta have. It is possible to buy a nice casting , restored rod for $100 -->$200
There is an increasing interest in bamboo and the junk shop/antique store supply is getting thinner and more expensive, But I keep reminding myself that bamboo rods are just like a city bus, there will always be another one. ;D If the rod is too far gone, feels clunky, etc. pass on it and look for better.
AgMD
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Post by tonkin on Jan 31, 2007 18:54:01 GMT -5
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Post by AgMD on Jan 31, 2007 19:49:18 GMT -5
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Post by ctroy36 on Feb 2, 2007 23:00:44 GMT -5
Thanks for all of the tips, info, etc. Checked them all out and here's what I found.
Barry Belknap is a rod maker but has no ties to the rod in question. He sent me to an antique page that mentioned a Belknap Hardware in Louisville. Thought was that back then hardware stores sold rods with store name but made by comercial rod maker, so who know what it really is.
Checked Mike Longuil's web site and it looks interesting. He's located in New York state and If we get anywhere near there on the way home I may stop and see what he's got.
Checked the Tonka Prince on Ebay. It's an attractive proposition, however it's a 7-footer and I already have one that I restored last year (an old Montegeau Sunbeam that I bought when I was in high school) and I'm really looking for a three-piece 8 or 8.5 footer.
Again, thanks to all. I'll just keep looking.
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