Hi guys,

I'm looking at opening a business that makes rod blanks and would like any information on machinery and where to locate any equipment in the US. I've been talking with a rep from China and also Century Design Inc. I want to start small and work my way up. More specifically I'm looking for a used keyboard rolling table, cellophane wrapper, oven, wet sander, mandrel extractor and a painting station. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!

As far as the mandrel extracting ram, you should talk to Lamiglas. They were the first people in the world to be able to pull a straight tapered mandrel. They might be able to help, unless you become to large and become a serious competitor. ;>)

Tough business to be successful at, not to discourage you! I wonder what ever happened to Shikari's equipment, even after Advanced Tubular Composites bought them out, and later folded?

You might try talking with Gary Loomis of Northfork Composites, he's an expert on the production equipment and developed some of the advanced techniques.

Wish you luck! Its my dream too!

In Chinese sources I only find rod blank painting maschine.

Thanks for the response guys. It seems the equipment is pretty hard to get your hands on unless you have some deep pockets or are willing to risk your money overseas. If anyone runs across any of the items listed, I'm still in the market.

Shikari's equipment was taken over by 2 companies that are in business today.

You might try to get ahold of Ron Brown in Kingston, WA. Sorry I don't have his number. He used to have his own shop, a one man operation where he Made Clearwater Black Graphite blanks. He sold his business a number of years ago, but might be able to give you some leads. The last ph. # I had for him was 206-297-4184. I don't know if you can reach him there or not. Good Luck



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/23/2015 06:15PM by Randolph Ruwe.

Honestly I would start with composite companies. The rod building companies are not going to give you any leads. Call the carbon suppliers and send lots of emails they want to sell you materials and they typically know the ins and outs of different processes. I myself prefer to look at how others are doing things then figure out a different way or better way to do it. Its hard to be better when your doing it the same.