Rod Handle Question???? Any help appreciated......

[kentuckyone29]

I am desperately wanting to change the Handle on a KVD 6'10 Tour Edition rod (Cork Handle) to a longer foam handle... I would like to have a straight foam handle instead of a split grip and one that is at least 2 inches longer than the stock handle I am wanting to change. My Question is, Is this something hard to do? Where is a good place to get a straight foam handle? I have never done anything like this, I love the rod but hate the short handle.... I see there are some very talented members here that build/repair rods so any help would be much appreciated. Also when I change the handle it isnt going to match the cork fore grip, Is it possible to remove the fore grip and leave it looking decent? Thanks, Daniel KY

[thedude]

use a razor and cut off all the foam from the existing grips.

find a piece of aluminum hobby tube, a broken rod blank, or any kind of graphite or fiberglass tube that will fit over the butt of the blank. Depending on the O.D. of that tube you use, you will have to shim the blank as it tapers so that the tube fits snugly. Masking tape or fiberglass drywall tape will work.. Use some U-40 rod bond to glue it in place. Make this tube 2" longer than previous grip.

anglers workshop (.com) or mudhole will have your grips. Simply find one with closest I.D. to the O.D. of the tube you used and add a butt cap.

[kentuckyone29]

Thanks a lot for your help and advice... Again im new to any kind of rod modification or work and its great to be able to post here and get help with things like this. I appreciate it. Thanks, Daniel