Rod Action vs. Power(freakin long daft)

[Dave Norton]

A Rod Blanks Power vs Action



Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank that
bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the most in
the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the blank
will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a moderate
action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of the
blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along the
entire rod blank.

So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here than
meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to describe
Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand POWER.

Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design characteristics of
a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:

UL- Ultra-Light

Light

ML-Med/Light

Medium

Medium Heavy

Heavy

Extra Heavy

Ulra Heavy

Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the blanks
ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are big and
small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy cover
for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank designed
for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what overkill.
That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.

So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and Slow?
These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
maximum load,

A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both tapers
that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials is
wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the mandrels.

Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is how
they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing where
on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks action.
Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a blank
change.

Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut in a
straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a multiple of
compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast will
the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers occur.
Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the blank.

So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only works
but is created in a blank.

What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the graphite
material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to create
today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and therefore
requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank walls
are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM= Intermediate
Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36 million
modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it is. HS=
High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the other two;
to add strength to the blanks.

All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be rolled
on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from shattering
or the blank walls from collapsing.

I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but these
are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can muster. As
you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod blank.

Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank "action"
can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod builder.
First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip section.
However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also change
the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on the
blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a blank,
either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many are
used, and where they are placed.

Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you why a
rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I also
hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a custom
rod and a manufacturered one.

Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing rods,
Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they strive to
make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we have
learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First, human
hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two blanks
could ever be the same or fish the same.


--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods

[Craig]

Dave Norton wrote: "So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more
closely related to fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast,
Moderate and Slow? These terms relate to the amount of time required for a
blank to reach maximum load."

Or in plain english, the amount of time it takes a blank to go from a fully
loaded (bowed) position to being straight again.

Dave wrote: "What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the
graphite material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to
create today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
therefore requires less material. However, since less material is used the
blank walls are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM=
Intermediate Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range
from 36 million modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers
to the elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it
is. HS=High Strength Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the
other two; to add strength to the blanks."

This is a very complicated subject, and it is quite difficult to try and
simplify in one paragraph. Dave has done a good job, but please understand
that, what we refer to as graphite, has two measures: Modulus -
stiffness/elasticity, and Strain Rate - Tensile/Strength. Know that as
modulus goes up, strain rate decreases. IM materials 45 million or less has
a high enough strain rate that you need not worry. However, any materials
with a modulus higher than 48-million requires something to boost the strain
rate. There are numerous ways in which the strain rate can be boosted, but
all add a great deal of cost (mostly in R&D) to the rod. The reason high
end rods cost so much. So great caution needs to be employed when buying a
High Modulus Rod. The words HIGH STRAIN needs to also be present. If it is
not, you could have a VERY SENSITIVE, VERY BRITTLE rod. Stiffness without
strength IS NOT a very good thing. The reason why people who buy cheap High
Modulus Rods buy more rods more often, or get frustrated and go back to
cheaper multi-blend rods and bad mouth high modulus rods.

Dave is right on when he says a rod craftsman can change a rod's natural
action, both for the good as well as the bad. The reason you need to only
use one with that has a well-known reputation.

Just adding my $.02

--
Craig Baugher

[Doc \(The Tin Boat King\)]

I vote this goes into our FAQ file. Bill P.
=====================================

"Dave Norton" > wrote in message ...
A Rod Blanks Power vs Action



Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank that
bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the most in
the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the blank
will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a moderate
action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of the
blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along the
entire rod blank.

So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here than
meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to describe
Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand POWER.

Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design characteristics of
a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:

UL- Ultra-Light

Light

ML-Med/Light

Medium

Medium Heavy

Heavy

Extra Heavy

Ulra Heavy

Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the blanks
ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are big and
small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy cover
for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank designed
for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what overkill.
That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.

So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and Slow?
These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
maximum load,

A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both tapers
that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials is
wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the mandrels.

Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is how
they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing where
on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks action.
Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a blank
change.

Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut in a
straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a multiple of
compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast will
the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers occur.
Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the blank.

So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only works
but is created in a blank.

What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the graphite
material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to create
today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and therefore
requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank walls
are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM= Intermediate
Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36 million
modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it is. HS=
High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the other two;
to add strength to the blanks.

All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be rolled
on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from shattering
or the blank walls from collapsing.

I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but these
are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can muster. As
you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod blank.

Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank "action"
can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod builder.
First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip section.
However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also change
the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on the
blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a blank,
either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many are
used, and where they are placed.

Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you why a
rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I also
hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a custom
rod and a manufacturered one.

Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing rods,
Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they strive to
make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we have
learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First, human
hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two blanks
could ever be the same or fish the same.


--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods

[AJH]

Thanks Rodmaker..





I fish therefore I lie

[Dark Knight]

I'll second that nomination.

DK


"Doc (The Tin Boat King)" > wrote in message
...
> I vote this goes into our FAQ file. Bill P.
> =====================================
>
> "Dave Norton" > wrote in message
...
> A Rod Blanks Power vs Action
>
>
>
> Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank that
> bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the most
in
> the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the blank
> will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a moderate
> action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of the
> blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along the
> entire rod blank.
>
> So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here than
> meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to describe
> Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand POWER.
>
> Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design characteristics
of
> a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:
>
> UL- Ultra-Light
>
> Light
>
> ML-Med/Light
>
> Medium
>
> Medium Heavy
>
> Heavy
>
> Extra Heavy
>
> Ulra Heavy
>
> Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the
blanks
> ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are big
and
> small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy cover
> for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank designed
> for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what
overkill.
> That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.
>
> So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
> fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and
Slow?
> These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
> maximum load,
>
> A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
> sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both tapers
> that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials is
> wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the mandrels.
>
> Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is how
> they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing
where
> on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks action.
> Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a blank
> change.
>
> Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut in
a
> straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a multiple of
> compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast will
> the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers occur.
> Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the
blank.
>
> So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only works
> but is created in a blank.
>
> What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the graphite
> material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to create
> today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
therefore
> requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank
walls
> are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM= Intermediate
> Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36
million
> modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
> elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it is.
HS=
> High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the other
two;
> to add strength to the blanks.
>
> All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be
rolled
> on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
> material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from
shattering
> or the blank walls from collapsing.
>
> I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but these
> are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can muster.
As
> you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod blank.
>
> Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank "action"
> can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod
builder.
> First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip
section.
> However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also change
> the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on the
> blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a
blank,
> either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many are
> used, and where they are placed.
>
> Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
> questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you why a
> rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I also
> hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a custom
> rod and a manufacturered one.
>
> Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing
rods,
> Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they strive
to
> make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we have
> learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First,
human
> hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
> mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two
blanks
> could ever be the same or fish the same.
>
>
> --
> Dave Norton
> Millennium Rods
>
>
>

[Andrew Kidd]

After receiving a nomination and a second on adding this to the FAQ, I
agree.

Please review the following links:

http://www.rofb.net/faq/faq_rodaction.htm

Dave, since you are the author of this article, if you would like it
removed, please let me know! If you would like to make any changes, please
feel free to send them to me. I noticed that this did say draft in the
original title.

If no problems, conflicts or complaints are received within the next 72
hours, I will consider this an addition to the FAQ. Thanks to everyone for
making the suggestions!

Once again, if you see older articles that you feel should be removed
from the FAQ, please let me know and I'll take it to the group for
discussion.
--
Andrew Kidd
http://www.amiasoft.com/ - Software for the rest of us!
http://www.rofb.net/ - ROFB Newsgroup Home


"Dave Norton" > wrote in message
...
> A Rod Blanks Power vs Action
>
>
>
> Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank that
> bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the most
in
> the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the blank
> will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a moderate
> action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of the
> blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along the
> entire rod blank.
>
> So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here than
> meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to describe
> Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand POWER.
>
> Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design characteristics
of
> a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:
>
> UL- Ultra-Light
>
> Light
>
> ML-Med/Light
>
> Medium
>
> Medium Heavy
>
> Heavy
>
> Extra Heavy
>
> Ulra Heavy
>
> Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the
blanks
> ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are big
and
> small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy cover
> for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank designed
> for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what
overkill.
> That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.
>
> So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
> fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and
Slow?
> These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
> maximum load,
>
> A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
> sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both tapers
> that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials is
> wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the mandrels.
>
> Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is how
> they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing
where
> on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks action.
> Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a blank
> change.
>
> Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut in
a
> straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a multiple of
> compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast will
> the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers occur.
> Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the
blank.
>
> So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only works
> but is created in a blank.
>
> What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the graphite
> material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to create
> today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
therefore
> requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank
walls
> are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM= Intermediate
> Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36
million
> modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
> elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it is.
HS=
> High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the other
two;
> to add strength to the blanks.
>
> All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be
rolled
> on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
> material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from
shattering
> or the blank walls from collapsing.
>
> I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but these
> are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can muster.
As
> you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod blank.
>
> Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank "action"
> can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod
builder.
> First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip
section.
> However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also change
> the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on the
> blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a
blank,
> either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many are
> used, and where they are placed.
>
> Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
> questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you why a
> rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I also
> hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a custom
> rod and a manufacturered one.
>
> Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing
rods,
> Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they strive
to
> make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we have
> learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First,
human
> hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
> mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two
blanks
> could ever be the same or fish the same.
>
>
> --
> Dave Norton
> Millennium Rods
>
>

[Bob La Londe]

I thin Craig's comments warant inclusion.


"Andrew Kidd" > wrote in message
news:WgQmb.25305$275.35386@attbi_s53...
> After receiving a nomination and a second on adding this to the FAQ, I
> agree.
>
> Please review the following links:
>
> http://www.rofb.net/faq/faq_rodaction.htm
>
> Dave, since you are the author of this article, if you would like it
> removed, please let me know! If you would like to make any changes,
please
> feel free to send them to me. I noticed that this did say draft in the
> original title.
>
> If no problems, conflicts or complaints are received within the next
72
> hours, I will consider this an addition to the FAQ. Thanks to everyone
for
> making the suggestions!
>
> Once again, if you see older articles that you feel should be removed
> from the FAQ, please let me know and I'll take it to the group for
> discussion.
> --
> Andrew Kidd
> http://www.amiasoft.com/ - Software for the rest of us!
> http://www.rofb.net/ - ROFB Newsgroup Home
>
>
> "Dave Norton" > wrote in message
> ...
> > A Rod Blanks Power vs Action
> >
> >
> >
> > Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank
that
> > bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the
most
> in
> > the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the blank
> > will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a moderate
> > action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of
the
> > blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along the
> > entire rod blank.
> >
> > So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here
than
> > meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to
describe
> > Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand POWER.
> >
> > Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design
characteristics
> of
> > a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:
> >
> > UL- Ultra-Light
> >
> > Light
> >
> > ML-Med/Light
> >
> > Medium
> >
> > Medium Heavy
> >
> > Heavy
> >
> > Extra Heavy
> >
> > Ulra Heavy
> >
> > Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the
> blanks
> > ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are big
> and
> > small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy
cover
> > for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank
designed
> > for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what
> overkill.
> > That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.
> >
> > So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
> > fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and
> Slow?
> > These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
> > maximum load,
> >
> > A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
> > sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both tapers
> > that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials is
> > wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the
mandrels.
> >
> > Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is
how
> > they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing
> where
> > on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks
action.
> > Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a
blank
> > change.
> >
> > Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut
in
> a
> > straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a multiple
of
> > compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast
will
> > the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers
occur.
> > Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the
> blank.
> >
> > So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only
works
> > but is created in a blank.
> >
> > What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the graphite
> > material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to create
> > today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
> therefore
> > requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank
> walls
> > are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM=
Intermediate
> > Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36
> million
> > modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
> > elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it is.
> HS=
> > High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the other
> two;
> > to add strength to the blanks.
> >
> > All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be
> rolled
> > on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
> > material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from
> shattering
> > or the blank walls from collapsing.
> >
> > I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but
these
> > are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can muster.
> As
> > you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod
blank.
> >
> > Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank
"action"
> > can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod
> builder.
> > First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip
> section.
> > However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also
change
> > the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on the
> > blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a
> blank,
> > either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many are
> > used, and where they are placed.
> >
> > Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
> > questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you why
a
> > rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I also
> > hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a
custom
> > rod and a manufacturered one.
> >
> > Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing
> rods,
> > Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they
strive
> to
> > make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we have
> > learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First,
> human
> > hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
> > mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two
> blanks
> > could ever be the same or fish the same.
> >
> >
> > --
> > Dave Norton
> > Millennium Rods
> >
> >
>
>

[Dave Norton]

Hey Craig , good points . Can I incorporate your post in my article?

--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods
"Craig" > wrote in message
...
> Dave Norton wrote: "So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more
> closely related to fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast,
Fast,
> Moderate and Slow? These terms relate to the amount of time required for a
> blank to reach maximum load."
>
> Or in plain english, the amount of time it takes a blank to go from a
fully
> loaded (bowed) position to being straight again.
>
> Dave wrote: "What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to
the
> graphite material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to
> create today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
> therefore requires less material. However, since less material is used the
> blank walls are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM=
> Intermediate Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range
> from 36 million modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus
refers
> to the elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic
it
> is. HS=High Strength Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the
> other two; to add strength to the blanks."
>
> This is a very complicated subject, and it is quite difficult to try and
> simplify in one paragraph. Dave has done a good job, but please
understand
> that, what we refer to as graphite, has two measures: Modulus -
> stiffness/elasticity, and Strain Rate - Tensile/Strength. Know that as
> modulus goes up, strain rate decreases. IM materials 45 million or less
has
> a high enough strain rate that you need not worry. However, any materials
> with a modulus higher than 48-million requires something to boost the
strain
> rate. There are numerous ways in which the strain rate can be boosted,
but
> all add a great deal of cost (mostly in R&D) to the rod. The reason high
> end rods cost so much. So great caution needs to be employed when buying
a
> High Modulus Rod. The words HIGH STRAIN needs to also be present. If it
is
> not, you could have a VERY SENSITIVE, VERY BRITTLE rod. Stiffness without
> strength IS NOT a very good thing. The reason why people who buy cheap
High
> Modulus Rods buy more rods more often, or get frustrated and go back to
> cheaper multi-blend rods and bad mouth high modulus rods.
>
> Dave is right on when he says a rod craftsman can change a rod's natural
> action, both for the good as well as the bad. The reason you need to only
> use one with that has a well-known reputation.
>
> Just adding my $.02
>
> --
> Craig Baugher
>
>

[Dave Norton]

As stated this is the draft. I will continue to refine it, and post my
results.

--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods
"AJH" > wrote in message
...
> Thanks Rodmaker..
>
>
>
>
>
> I fish therefore I lie
>

[Dave Norton]

With Craig's permissision I will add his comments to the article, and send
it to Andrew. Please be patient as as I am up to my ass in alligator's at
work!

--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods
"Bob La Londe" > wrote in message
...
> I thin Craig's comments warant inclusion.
>
>
> "Andrew Kidd" > wrote in message
> news:WgQmb.25305$275.35386@attbi_s53...
> > After receiving a nomination and a second on adding this to the FAQ, I
> > agree.
> >
> > Please review the following links:
> >
> > http://www.rofb.net/faq/faq_rodaction.htm
> >
> > Dave, since you are the author of this article, if you would like it
> > removed, please let me know! If you would like to make any changes,
> please
> > feel free to send them to me. I noticed that this did say draft in the
> > original title.
> >
> > If no problems, conflicts or complaints are received within the
next
> 72
> > hours, I will consider this an addition to the FAQ. Thanks to everyone
> for
> > making the suggestions!
> >
> > Once again, if you see older articles that you feel should be
removed
> > from the FAQ, please let me know and I'll take it to the group for
> > discussion.
> > --
> > Andrew Kidd
> > http://www.amiasoft.com/ - Software for the rest of us!
> > http://www.rofb.net/ - ROFB Newsgroup Home
> >
> >
> > "Dave Norton" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > A Rod Blanks Power vs Action
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Action of a Rod can best be described as that portion of a rod blank
> that
> > > bends during a cast. In an extra-fast blank, the blank will bend the
> most
> > in
> > > the top 25% of the blank.. In the case of a fast action blank, the
blank
> > > will bend most in the top 33% of the blank.If you are casting a
moderate
> > > action blank you would find that the blank will flex in the top 50% of
> the
> > > blank. While a slow action rod would reveal a continuous curve along
the
> > > entire rod blank.
> > >
> > > So much for the short version on Rod Action. There is much more here
> than
> > > meets the eye as we will soon reveal. However let us first try to
> describe
> > > Rod Power. You will see clearly the difference between ACTIONand
POWER.
> > >
> > > Rod blank power is simply a rating. Based upon the design
> characteristics
> > of
> > > a particular blank model. Power catagories are as follows:
> > >
> > > UL- Ultra-Light
> > >
> > > Light
> > >
> > > ML-Med/Light
> > >
> > > Medium
> > >
> > > Medium Heavy
> > >
> > > Heavy
> > >
> > > Extra Heavy
> > >
> > > Ulra Heavy
> > >
> > > Now, power simply describes the overall stiffness of a blank, and the
> > blanks
> > > ability to React. The reason for power rating is because there are
big
> > and
> > > small fishey's. You would not use an Ultra-Light to flip into heavy
> cover
> > > for a 10lb bass. Conversely, you would not use a Mag Heavy blank
> designed
> > > for Muskie fishing to reel in Crappie. Oh you could but, man what
> > overkill.
> > > That is the basis behind the Rod-Power ratings.
> > >
> > > So let's get back to Rod-Action. Rod action is more closely related to
> > > fishing technique. Remember the terms, Extra-fast, Fast, Moderate and
> > Slow?
> > > These terms relate to the amount of time required for a blank to reach
> > > maximum load,
> > >
> > > A blanks action is created by the design of the taper of the graphite
> > > sheets! Huh? As of my writing this, blank manufacturers use both
tapers
> > > that are designed into the mandrels around which the blank materials
is
> > > wrapped, and taper cut material which is then wrapped around the
> mandrels.
> > >
> > > Wait? they use multiple taper mandrels and taper cut material. This is
> how
> > > they can design so many different model of blanks. Simply by changing
> > where
> > > on the mandrel the material is rolled, they can change the blanks
> action.
> > > Also by changing the taper of the cut material, can the action of a
> blank
> > > change.
> > >
> > > Basically - a slow or moderate action blank will have the material cut
> in
> > a
> > > straight taper. While a fast or extra-fast action would have a
multiple
> of
> > > compound tapers with less material at the tip of the blank. How fast
> will
> > > the action be? That will depend on where the changes in the tapers
> occur.
> > > Remember that a fast action blank bends most in the upper 33% of the
> > blank.
> > >
> > > So now we have the beginnings of a vague idea on how action not only
> works
> > > but is created in a blank.
> > >
> > > What about the terms HMG, IM, and HS. These terms refer to the
graphite
> > > material used in the blanks.HMG= High Modulus Graphite is used to
create
> > > today's extremely sensitive blanks. It is more densely woven, and
> > therefore
> > > requires less material. However, since less material is used the blank
> > walls
> > > are thinner. Hence the blanks are somewhat more fragile. IM=
> Intermediate
> > > Modulus Graphite- the mainstay of most blanks- IM can range from 36
> > million
> > > modulus all the way up to 54 million modulus. Modulus refers to the
> > > elasticity of the fibers. The higher the modulus the less elastic it
is.
> > HS=
> > > High Strengh Graphite. This fiber is used in conjunction with the
other
> > two;
> > > to add strength to the blanks.
> > >
> > > All blanks today use a combination of these three fabrics. HS can be
> > rolled
> > > on the mandrel in a spiral or at a right angle to the main sheets of
> > > material. This creates a hoop effect, to help keep the blank from
> > shattering
> > > or the blank walls from collapsing.
> > >
> > > I realize that I have strayed from the topic of Action vs Power, but
> these
> > > are not simplistic subjects, and deserve all the attention I can
muster.
> > As
> > > you can see "many" variables go into the design andmakeup of a rod
> blank.
> > >
> > > Yet, I must also note that this is not where design ends. A blank
> "action"
> > > can be altered by several methods which can be employed by the rod
> > builder.
> > > First, the builder can alter the action by minutely cutting the tip
> > section.
> > > However, this technique is seldom employed. A rod builder can also
> change
> > > the action by the type of guides used and where they are placed on
the
> > > blank. That's right, the builder can actually change the action of a
> > blank,
> > > either to soften or harden it by the type of guides used; how many
are
> > > used, and where they are placed.
> > >
> > > Well that's it in a nutshell. I hope that this will help answer some
> > > questions regarding this subject, And that maybe if someone asks you
why
> a
> > > rod behaves as it does, you will be able to help them understand. I
also
> > > hope that this helps to explain a little, the difference between a
> custom
> > > rod and a manufacturered one.
> > >
> > > Only custom builder seek to design and construct the ultimate fishing
> > rods,
> > > Manufacturers seek to maintain the status quo. In otherwords, they
> strive
> > to
> > > make each rod in a model series as identical as possible. But as we
have
> > > learned, there are too many variables for this to be a reality. First,
> > human
> > > hands cut the graphite, pre-peg as it's called, and roll it onto the
> > > mandels. Everywhere in the process,humans are involved. Thus, no two
> > blanks
> > > could ever be the same or fish the same.
> > >
> > >
> > > --
> > > Dave Norton
> > > Millennium Rods
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Craig]

Dave, anything I post here is always free for the taking and use.

--
Craig Baugher

[Dave Norton]

Thanks Craig, looks like I might get a few free hours this weekend to work
it up . I will send it to Andrew when complete.

--
Dave Norton
Millennium Rods
"Craig" > wrote in message
...
> Dave, anything I post here is always free for the taking and use.
>
> --
> Craig Baugher
>
>