You are exactly correct Alan, on my rod tubes the glass is simply a cheap adder, then the carbon for the look (sex appeal?)
I’ve used shrink wrap on a couple projects and like the smooth look it gives but it’s also holding All the rosin that was applied which adds to the weight. If a person has bagging capability with all the bells and whistles you get the best end result. Im a “poor boy” and sand to smooth every layer before adding the next.
However; on the fly rod tubes im not after perfect shiny carbon, much preferring the textured finish for numerous reasons; easier to maintain, better grip etc.
Glass outside of Carbon on canoes Is the standard. With canoes gel coat goes in the mold, then glass, then what ever else and the canoe exterior is perfect due to the gel coat.
On a home built paddle paint could help the appearance but just glass over carbon is pretty utilitarian looking other wise.
I’ve used shrink wrap on a couple projects and like the smooth look it gives but it’s also holding All the rosin that was applied which adds to the weight. If a person has bagging capability with all the bells and whistles you get the best end result. Im a “poor boy” and sand to smooth every layer before adding the next.
However; on the fly rod tubes im not after perfect shiny carbon, much preferring the textured finish for numerous reasons; easier to maintain, better grip etc.
Glass outside of Carbon on canoes Is the standard. With canoes gel coat goes in the mold, then glass, then what ever else and the canoe exterior is perfect due to the gel coat.
On a home built paddle paint could help the appearance but just glass over carbon is pretty utilitarian looking other wise.
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