Graphite vs E-Glass in (Stand up rods only)

[CaptLeoNYC]

Hey Guys,
I am interested in building my first graphite stand up rod, what differences if any would I notice compared to a regular e-glass rod? I know the differences in spinning and surf rods, but under pressure of a decent size BFT would graphite be not as durable as e-glass? I see that most graphite blanks run much higher than traditional e-glass, but besides being lighter does it sacrifice strength and durability? Thoughts? ...... thanks

[clt_capt]

graphite has a much higher tensile strength than glass does - that means 2 things - 1) you can build a blank that is stronger than glass and much lighter weight using graphite. 2) You can build a much stronger blank at the same weight as glass out of graphite.

Many blank builders opt for lighter weight blanks - which is great, but graphite doesn't tolerate nicks and over all beating that a fiberglass blank does. When graphite fails, it fails explosively.

I prefer hybrid - glass/graphite blanks - a bit lighter, but very tough for day in wear and tear. Not really trying to save an ounce or two on a standup tuna rod - so the weight of the blank doesn't matter to much to me.

[FLATLINER]

Weight pretty much goes out the door when talking standup. By the time you add a reel and a unibutt, the weight game is over. I concur about he durability of graphite. That is one reason that I apply finish to the entire blank on my final coat of finish. I also prefer the hybrid construction blanks. They offer the best of both worlds.

Good luck with the build.

Kevin

[CaptLeoNYC]

thanks guys on your input !I also have seen certain blanks that are E-glass core with Carbon tape on the top layer. A little pricey due to the carbon but might yield a stronger blank. Hybrid it is then !

[FLATLINER]

I was chewing on this and came back to post. I personally use the Batson FSU series of standup blank. It's E-Glass but this is where I wanted to clarify.

Eglass was traditionally a solid blank. Years ago, the evolution of the hollow core E-Glass blank came about. This afforded the durability of E-Glass and near weights of Graphite, but again, weight is out the door with the add ons.

Personally, I use the Batson series of Stand up blanks as my go to for standup rods.

FSU56H for 30's
FSU56XH for 50's
FSU56XXH for 80's

You can't go wrong with them and with their warranty, its a no brainer!!

Kevin

[paul708]

There are very few "graphite" blanks avail for standup.
they are really light weight and have power.
used right they make a killer rod.

The differance you will notice, the graphite will usually be thinner, lighter, more of a high performance blank.

I have used GUSA, now united composites,
teamed with AA titanium rollers.(1.34oz a set) the rod weighs about 12oz.

what graphite blank were you looking at?

There are alot of great composite blanks.
the GF by calstar is a very nice composite stick.
they are light and powerfull.

The composite is a great compromise.
light weight and power

The E-glass are heavy and a workhorse blank.
the different brands have a few different actions.
The price is really cheap. good blanks for 25$ or less
these are great for building low priced rods.
they work well.