What do I need for this lesson?
Rod finishes are made from 2 part epoxy resins that give a crystal clear, pliable finish that will protect the guide feet and their wraps and also add strength to the junction.
Some rod builders use a low build epoxy that requires multiple coats. The first coat will be applied and left to dry (usually 24hrs) and then the next coat will be applied. You will be using a high build epoxy. High build epoxies are applied in a single coat as they have much better coverage. Choosing a high or low build epoxy comes down to preference and what you are trying to achieve with the rod but for most situation a quality high build epoxy will suffice.
U Build Rods Ultra Clear Epoxy is a two component, solvent free, low viscosity protective coating which gives an amazing finish and is extremely durable. It even has excellent curing, even at low temperatures and high humidity.
Steps:
Any marks that get coated in epoxy are there forever so make sure you double check everything and remove any unwanted marks
Please refer to the UBR Ultra Clear Safety Data Sheet for complete safety guidelines when using UBR Ultra Clear Epoxy.
Please wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
WORKING TIME – Approx. 30 minutes at 25°C
U Build Rods recommends using a UBR Mixer to mix the epoxy. Using a UBR Mixer ensures perfectly mixed epoxy. Inaccurate and or incomplete mixing may give inferior performance.
U Build Rods recommend the use of a quality UBR sable brush. A quality brush will improve your finish and you won’t spend time removing bristles from your coating. Brushes can be cleaned and reused.
Take your time and don’t apply too much epoxy at a time. You do not need to paint the epoxy on. You should just be moving the epoxy around using the brush to create an even coating and let the epoxy spread itself.
U Build Rods recommend the use of an alcohol burner as it produces a clean flame with no contaminants and doesn’t produce soot. Using a lighter can “blacken” the finish. Using a heat gun can blow dust into the finish.
When using an alcohol burner be careful. Always work in a well ventilated area. Keep heat sources away from flammable objects and be sure to completely extinguish any flames.
Drying times are relative to a temperature of 25°C. Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for alternate drying times.
Congratulations you have completed building your first fishing rod.