I have a question for you rod builders.
I have a 1930’s bamboo rod. It’s an old Shakespeare Diana 1232. I’ve been getting a bad itch to use it around the ponds at home for pan-fish.
I know it’s a collector’s item, but I’m not really a collector. It needs a few guides, and I’d like to re-do the cork grip.
My question is:
Should I just keep it locked up, leave it like it is, and ignore the itch like I’ve been doing for the last 4 years.
Or
Re-build it, and go hook some pig-gills on it? Does bamboo become brittle after so long?
Anyone interested in taking on the re-build job? And if so, any estimate on what a re-wrap, new guides and cork grip would set me back? (Nothing fancy).
Thanks
E.
restore or not?
restore or not?
“That brush beyond the big hump has been calling for a long time and maybe I better answer while I’m able” R.L.P
-
- Posts: 486
- Joined: Wed Dec 31, 1969 7:00 pm
I agree. If it is in need of guides/grip, it's value is lessoned further and unlike most antiques, restoring it will increase it's value (especially if the restorer is uses thread colors and wraps that mimic the original design and matches the grip). I love fishing classic rods because they are best enjoyed on the water, not in a glass case on the wall.dunfly wrote:Usually a Shakespeare bamboo rod is not worth a whole lot unless it is in excellent to mint condition. I would say restore it and use it. If it doesn't have any splits in it, there are several people on this board that have the skill to restore it.
Here is a link where some folks can help you:
http://clarksclassicflyrodforum.yuku.com/
Old School T160
Marion Jay "JayB" Brewington
July 26, 1949 - April 16, 2009
Marion Jay "JayB" Brewington
July 26, 1949 - April 16, 2009