More rod building info as I go. I chose the full size cork handle, my choice. The cork comes full length, with a .25" through hole, a few hours and all 4 supplied reamers later, my cork and reel seat were ready to bond in place.
This wasn't a huge deal, but it looks daunting at first. After bonding the handle etc. in place it's time to layout the guides. I don't think they sent me the correct guide set, or I'm missing one in my kit, it goes from a 25mm od guide to a 16, I think it should transition to a 20, like my Fenwick does.
I sent them an email requesting the parts list of the guide set. I also mentioned the China marker they mention in almost all of their instructions was missing from the kit.
The equipment all seems serviceable, and I managed wrap the hook holder gimmick to the rod, this took awhile, and wasn't as easy as I thought it might be.
So, I'm in a holding pattern until I get the correct guides, or am told it is what it is. Sort of a bummer, I am really stoked to get this new stick out on the water.
I won big bass in my league last week 19.5" on a drop shot wacky, and picked up a one 3 Creed spinning reel with my winnings, so all I need now is to finish the rod.