Re: [VFB] Cats and stuff

[Mark Wendt]

Hi Del,

        The production shops can turn them out quicker than us hand planers, but they still go through most of the same steps.  It is time consuming, but I consider it enjoyable time.  Other things considered, we rod makers are working relatively cheap.  Since the quality hardware put on the rods usually runs around $100 or so, at $750 or $800 a rod, that puts our labor at about $8 an hour.  It really is a labor of love though, don't get me wrong.  I sure wouldn't want to get to the stage where I'm in production, and lose the enjoyment of crafting a fine rod, but I do have a lot of respect for the guys that are doing it full time.

Mark



At 09:04 AM 7/18/2003 -0400, you wrote:

In a message dated 7/18/2003 6:43:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

        It's a combination of the time involved and the entire process which goes into "making" a bamboo rod.  On my next rod, I'm even going to make my own ferrules, turned from nickle silver stock.  I already make my own snake guides, reel seats, grips, and reel seat hardware.  We basically create you a rod from scratch.

Mark

Gathering from what you said, al I can say is "WOW" I never knew there was that much in it!

Delbert (Del) Roberts
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Belton, SC
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