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There are many construction principles applicable to rodmaking. Just to name a few, one can make quadratic, pentagonal or even octagonal types. Each of them has their advantages and disadvantages or, rather, let’s say “specifics”. I for one prefer making them in the classic hexagonal shape. For each rod I make, I only use the very best well-seasoned cane (Arundinaria Amabilis).
The culm selected for a specific rod will then be split very carefully by hand. After the splitting, all nods will be straightened – also very carefully by hand. After being planed into a triangular, untapered shape the strips are heat treated in a purpose built oven. This procedure extracts the remaining moisture from the strips and gives them their unbelievable tensile strength. Subsequently all strips are planed to their final dimensions before being glued together under pressure. The final assembly follows with a multiple immersion coating to protect the new rod from the elements.
Today, modern materials in varnishes and adhesives enable rodmakers to make split cane rods with enormous casting dynamics. These rods have nothing in common anymore with rods you might probably know from your Grandfather.
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