let me start by introducing myself. my name is matt lewis, and i'm excited about getting into building my own rods. i've been doing a lot of research , and have learned a lot from the prople on this board in a short amount of time. i'm starting by customizing some rods that i currently own, mainly doing custom handles. i'm having a real problem cutting off old reel seats, especially trigger casting seats. i've tried a dremel tool, and every bit and cutting wheel i own. i've tried 6 different speeds, to no avail. is there a magic tool, or technique to do this easier, without damaging the blank? many thanks, matt

Matt,

The magic tool is to use a diamond wheel in your Dremel. It will cut anything. Be careful to not cut too deep to avoid cutting into the blank. After you have cut the reel seat on opposite sides, place the blade of a thin screw driver into the cut and then twist the screw driver to break the bond. You may have to cut the seat axially in 4 places (90 degees apart), instead of just 2 places. Use a 3/4" diamond wheel and use your thumb against the rod to guide the wheel while cutting.

You can buy 4 diamond wheels (part #d-dw-ba82) for $3.99 + 3.99 shipping at the following link:

[www.widgetsupply.com]

Copy this link into your location window, then press ENTER.

@#$%&

thanks, i'll pick some up. i'll see what kind i was using. they look a lot alike, but i'm not sure mine are diamond coated. they may just be sandind disks. they wear down very quickly, so i'm betting they are not the same thing. thanks!