thought I'd share my latest project.With triple A grade Portuguese cork being seemingly non existent nowadays, if not taking the EVA route, most companies will accept sub-par cork to be used as a rod component.
Unfortunately, the lower grade cork is somewhat pitted from the get go, and companies will fill in the gaps with wood filler.
After a seasons use, or two, handles tend to slowly lose that said filler, looking something like the picture below.
Some will appreciate the distressed and worn out look of the handle, I personally hate it, period!
After reading a few comments online, they recommended Elmers wood filler in "natural" color, so that's what I first purchased.
I proceeded in taping the extremities, and filled in the pitted areas with the filler.
I wasn't pleased with the end result on my first attempt, the tint was to light in contrast to the cork handle.
After brushing off the previous filler, I went and purchased Lepage wood filler in "light oak".
After touching up all my rods, I let them dry for roughly 4 hours.
Sanded off the excess with a 600 grit sand paper.
Very happy with the end result this time around.
I will be sealing all of the handles with U40 cork sealer, it will prevent the pitting and keep them in pristine shape.
I do suggest a practice run on a smaller area before attempting to tackle the full handle.
P.s. works great on them Gar bitten handles!
