Wooden Reel Refurb

[Mark]

I purchased this reel some years ago now for a tenner. It was in the state you see it below, originally in a Chinese tub, in bits from a chap where I use to work. I had forgotten all about this reel until I cleaned a cupboard out in my shed today and there it was. I think all the bits are here.

It looks like he or someone has already had a go at it so before I make it worse than it is what is the best way to clean up the wood and the brass.

[Wallys-Cast]

Mark, clean the wood and all the other parts with fine wire wool. Polish the brass bits with metal polish and coat them in cellulose lacquer to keep them from tarnishing or darken them with gun blue to your preference. The wood can be varnished after cleaning or given a wood stain first if you want a darker look.

All screw heads look good if they are cleaned and blued before varnishing over.

Wal.

[Mark]

As you can see from the pictures in my original post above this reel was in a bit of a state. Purchased for the sum of £10.00 approximately ten years ago, in bits, in a Chinese tub. And there it sat in my shed until last month when I rediscovered it.



A few days after my post Wal sent me a PM asking me if I would like him to restore it for me. Well, as you can imagine I jumped at the chance, today it arrived back in this condition.



And here is the reel coupled to my Chapmans Peter Stone Ledgerstrike rod which incidentally Wal restored for me a few years ago. Thank you so much for doing this for me Wal, you have made a tub full of bits into a wonderful working reel. I think the least I can do is catch a nice River Soar chub on it for you.

[Wallys-Cast]

You are very welcome Mark, thank you.
Looking forward to seeing it next that big Chub

Wal.

[Liphook]

Now that is a pairing of great tackle and restoration!
Congratulations to both

[Barbelseeker]

Just don't let Banksy see the finished job or the rod - Very nice job.

Question - does the backplate (Starback) and spindle push out from the wooden back. I have several SLater latches like this - which could do with the Wally's treatment. Alway been hesitant to use force.

[Luga00]

Incredible, well done indeed, Wal!
A lovely looking reel, congrats, Mark.
Russ

[Deaf Cat]

Lovely looking reel!

[Lea Dweller]

Well done Wal, what a wonderful job you have done for Mark!

[MGs]

Very nice indeed