Custom Light Saber Rod

[PainInTheBass]

So, I finished my wife's custom rod. Being a Star Wars nerd, I made her a light saber fishing rod. unfortunately, I could not figure out a way to include lights or sounds. However, it has a sparkly paint job.

Here are the details of the rod:

blank - MHX MB783
grip - eva foam (portions wrapped in x flocked shrink tubing)
guides - blue nanolite on stainless steel frames
thread - blue to match the rod
reel seat - Fuji ACS painted silver to maintain the metallic feel of the rod
winding checks and bling - Matagi aluminum components

I painted the blank with a base coat of blue. I then cleared over it with rod finish in which I mixed blue metallic flakes to produce a sparkle effect under the light.

Here are some pics (more and better ones to follow):

The pictures do not do the sparkle finish justice.

Yeah, my wife uses a baitcaster.
A closer look...

I have built 10 rods thus far, and this was by far, the most custom. I am quite happy with how it turned out, although the paint and finish added significant weight in my opinion.

My wife did not catch anything that first time out. However, on her next outing, she christened this bad boy with some topwater action. I love when people catch fish on rods I have made. It is very gratifying.

All comments and criticism is welcome!

 

[reefrunner]

She's a beaut!

Good job!

 

[RedSkullz]

Very cool!! Being a wars fan myself i really appreciate a good 'saber. HOw much did it cost for materials if you dont mind me asking?

 

[PainInTheBass]

The materials were in the $150 range because some of the components were Japanese custom parts. Further, the suppliers I purchased from are located in the states, and the shipping and duties add up.

When I build rods, I try to order parts for multiple rods to save on shipping and duties.

 

[RedSkullz]

Cool
The rods you sell, are they pricey to ship once completed?

 

[PainInTheBass]

I would imagine so. All of my builds have been for friends locally thus far. However, the size and additional weight of the rod tube would make for some pretty expensive shipping I think.

 

[theNik]

First - You make your own rods - That's awesome. I wish i had that skill.
Second - Your wife knows how to use a baitcaster - also awesome.
Third - I'm a SW fan too so I'm jealous. If only I could use the force to catch fish.

 

[Got Hooked]

Third - I'm a SW fan too so I'm jealous. If only I could use the force to catch fish.

with the force, you would not even need a rod