First attempt at Abalone

[Mike Hammer]

This is my first try at using abalone and I was pleased with the results. The rod was still on the turner waiting for the flexcoat to dry but I had to take a picture with it spinning. It's a bit blurry but I'll post a better one tomorrow. I rushed the overwraps a bit and they will be better next time. I usually build functional rods not fancy but since I'm going to be posting pictures I'll have to pay more attention to those details.

[Stripersniper]

Looks great Mike. I still have to find some time to try it.

[AE]

Way to go Mike. Yeah, the pictures bring out the details of the rod. I find that I guess its with my A.D.D that I don't study a rod's detail with the eye, but rather fix what I see and then take pictures and study those!

Great job on the veneer and keep up the great work!

[Mike Hammer]

I finished the guides last night put it on the dryer motor with flex coat and walked away checked it after 20 minutes all going well. Then I got into something else and went back an hour after the intial check and the motor died sometime between then and the first check. Now I have a mess, I was looking forward to fishing the Rod on Sunday. I'm so dissapointed right now. Anyone have a turning motor for sale?

[AE]

How far are you from Versitex?

Spring City, Pa.

I can order it and have it ready for you to pick up if you want.
$35

Kevin

[ponce]

Nice work on the abalone, I think it really makes the rods look great. In about 50 years I may be able to be half as good as Kevin.

[Mike Hammer]

I was going to redo the overwraps but took the rod out for it's test run on Sunday and the first fish I catch is this one

It was 11.3 lb Tautog we took a picture and released her to bread again.

Would it be bad mojo to mess with the rod at this time?

[Stripersniper]

Mike, I don't think I would mess with that rod!!! Congrats on the tog and on the release.

[WAHOONBOX]

CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW ROD AND ART WORK HAMMER...

I THINK PHOTOGRAPHING A ROD UP CLOSE IS ABOUT THE TRICKIEST THING I HAVE EVER TRIED TO PHOTOGRAPH