Precision Rods 'R. Sealey's Marsden.'

[AshbyCut]

I was supposed to be out fishing for the first time in weeks on Tuesday ... and wouldn't you just know it ??? On Monday I was carrying a heavy delivery through the house (Mrs. AC has suet balls to feed the birds in our garden bulk delivered !!!) when I stumbled, and tore a muscle in my back !!! Out of action for ANOTHER week !!!

However ... every cloud has a silver lining, as they say ... and my enforced inactivity has meant I could strip the 'Marsden.'

I've been able to save both the Precision Rods and the Ogden Smith transfers ... and the 75% of the hand written model name that was still in place (I won't be trying to 'touch it up' ... I like the 'patina' look !!! ).

That said ... the cane beneath all that flaking varnish is in wonderful condition ... the handle has scrubbed up well ... and the guides have all polished up like new once the old varnish was removed, and are now taped back in place. Even the original pencil marks for the intermediate whippings are still present !!!

I'm now awaiting the arrival of a new supply of 'Dark Peony' silk from Piper's Silks (the closest match I can find to the original ... and what I used on the Precision Rods 'Princess, as christened by Bumble).

All being well ... the rod will be ready for the beginning of September ... and some autumn action on my syndicate lake.

[Paul D]

coming up a treat Sir, lovely dark cane, do hope you recover soon

[GazTheAngler]

I reckon that will look lovely when you're finished Mal. I sympathise with your back, mine is still twinging a bit.

[LuckyLuca]

Real shame about the back Mal! But it looks like your time was well used.

[Wallys-Cast]

Emerging wonderfully Mal, looking forward to seeing its wings open.

Wal.

[AshbyCut]

A bit further along now. The butt is coming along with main whippings being done in Piper's Silks "Dark Peony" 90/3 and the intermediates in 90/2 ... the same colour as I used on the 10ft. 9in. rod which Bumble christened. I've tried to keep the detail whippings within the Precision Rods style.

My eyes are cursing me for doing another rod with over 85 intermediates !!!

[MGs]

Considering what you started with, you are working miracles.

[Marc]

Looking wonderful, AC. 85 intermediates, that's tough going, but it will be with it.

[AshbyCut]

The butt is now completely whipped and sealed, ready for varnish. I've made a start on the tip ... guides are whipped on and only 54 intermediates to go !!!

[AshbyCut]

I finished off the tip section whippings today, and they've all had their first coat of sealer. I should be starting on the varnishing by the weekend ... and maybe christening it in a couple of weeks.