ULTIMATE ANGLING - the Ultimate SA Fishing website
General Angling Topics => Saltwater Lure Angling => Topic started by: carll on July 06, 2014, 09:26:27 PM
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Hi fellow Spinning Anglers.
After the post was made about the KR Concept, I did a lot of research on other forums about the KR Concept from Fuji and everything it entails. In other countries the KR Concept has long been used by Angler's that spin with surprisingly good results. Turning your Spinning rod into a Super Spinning rod.
I just want to make it clear that I am not a ROD BUILDER and I am not gaining any financial benefits by making this post, but I would like to share my experience with you. Spinning and Drop Shot fishing has become very popular over the last 4 years after anglers like Craig Thomassen, The Alcock Brothers and Barry Wareham made us very aware about Spinning and Drop Shot Angling.
In my opinion if you are a very passionate Spinning or Drop Shot Angler then the KR-Concept is a must as it will place you in a whole different dimension.
I just want to thank Brandon, aka Tackle-Holic for all his effort and designing that he put into my Assassin Amia and Assassin Spin E . He worked on the rods for 3 weeks and he tested every single guide setup until he was satisfied that both the rods perform to the max.
Fuji’s New GR-Concept.
Please do not confuse KR-Concept with Micro guide layouts, there are some similarities but the differences are big.
The concept calls for a stripping guide relatively close to the reel; from there it quickly gets reduced (or choked) down to the blank at a point MUCH closer to the blank than in more old fashioned Cone of Flight or even New Guide Concept builds. This means that we need to fit 2 or even 3 more guides…..
I truly believe that the true advantage is the result - MORE guides, not less. More guides closer together KEEP THE LINE AWAY FROM THE BLANK. More guides spread out over the blank extract more casting power, more power less friction. This is one of the BEST concepts for Inshore Spinning setups for braid application. The ant-tangling properties of K series guides (that KL-H guides share) become more when spinning with Braid.
Assassin Amia's ( 1oz-2oz) specs before and after. Just keep in mind that the Amia was NOT design to cast lure's under 1oz. For me the huge improvement in the lightest weight is significant. The Rod is now very more sensitive and has has lot of power in the butt section
Std Configuration (9 guides + tip) All distances were MEASURED
20g Spoon average cast 53m
55g lead average cast 115m
KR Concept Configuration (11 guides + tip)
20g Spoon average cast 82m
55g Spoon average cast 125m
Fuji’s KR-Concept Video
A revolution in rod component layout and design (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ANbtcbNvYU#)
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I have also researched these guides and am impressed with all that they offer. As you say they not only improve casting but increase sensitivity and pulling power. Did you do the conversion yourself?
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Excellent post Carl! (clap) Amazing video!
So what do a bunch of these KR guides cost, any idea?
PS: Please fill in your location in your profile.
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Cost will depend on # of guides needed, from memory Carl's rod had 3 reduction guides and 9 running guides + tip. Should be around $50 x current fx rate + customs VAT.
This is just for the guides, no labour costs to strip and rebuild.
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You do this as a hobby Fishatic? Are you a rodbuilder?
What would a ballpark figure be on an Amia? Total cost?
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It has been a long time hobby, but I am now really into it and am building as a second job! Will email you a all-in cost.
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Why not give a basic rundown of prices...?Then anyone interrested in doing a customisation/rebuild will know more or less what they'll be getting into and paying...??Otherwise you must e-mail everyone interrested with pricing... :-)
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Fair enough, I am not in front if my PC so could have hazarded a guess and got it horribly wrong.
Either too much or to little... One way I shaft or scare off customers, the other I make a loss.
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Also not sure how moderator would react to me offering prices on the forum
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@ Reefs the cost for 11 Guides is +- R550 and that's for high quality Fuji guides. I chatted to Brandon aka "fishatic" yesterday about the Daiwa Exceler 1oz - 3oz because my friend has one and as you know the blank only starts to load with a 2oz lure/sinker. He wants to try and solve the problem with Fuji's KR Concept. Give Brandon a call he is a great guy and let him convert your Exceler into a monster Spinning Machine.
I chat to Brandon almost every day, he gives me constant feedback, sends computer format layout of both my rods and pics of progress just to tease me. Just the service levels, knowledge about the K- Series guides and professionalism shown by the man is fantastic. Brandon, you are an excellent example of how the business (of building a custom rod) and service should be and going the extra mile makes the difference
:win:
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Also not sure how moderator would react to me offering prices on the forum
Attached please find requested costing for KR Concept rebuilds of Assassin Amia and Daiwa Exceller.
Note: indicated costs exclude reel seat and grips - both rods are factory equipped with very good quality items and unless wear and tear dictate otherwise, I would suggest leaving them alone.
Costs include complete stripping of all guides and varnish/epoxy down to the bare blank as well as wet polishing.
All guides are genuine Fuji KL-H and KT, tip tops Fuji MN, all available in either chromed stainless steel or black coated stainless steel.
You will notice a slight difference in cost between the two sets of guides - based on experience with the Amia, it requires 12 guides + tip, the Exceller SHOULD require 1 less, but this will depend on static load testing of the blank.
Total Cost for 2 Rods quoted was approx R2300. Ie: 1150 per rod.
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The R/$ are our biggest enemy! The labour for the rods are cheap or the going rate but the time and effort he put into redesigning the rod to perform to it's max.....testing...testing.....changing the guide positions and testing again. That takes some time and he definitely knows what he is doing. I would like to see a Exceler rod perform with the KR Concept because that's a monster blank and what I experienced was a huge improvement in the lightest weight lures is very significant.
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The fact that by putting more guides you make casting lighter lures easier is very interresting,I would've thought that more guides will make the rod even stiffer and heavier as the guides are closer together,meaning more binding,epoxy etc.,making it harder to cast lighter lures.As some may know,the Poseidon ultra-light 10'6" 1-3 ounce,is almost impossible to load with anything lighter than 2 ounce,so I would love to know how big a difference these guides will make to this rods' casting ability... :dunno:
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Hi Lofty.
A friend of mine have a Exceler and have the same problem than you. He is unable to cast a 1oz lure :cnfzd I have the Amia Cob
thats stiffer than the new one and only start to load with 1.2oz lure/weight but after the KR Concept conversion I can cast 20g
spoon ! :yipee: But call Brandom and chat to him.
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Hi Lofty I send you a PM
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I'm going to get my Exceler done by Brandon... watch this space. He just needs to pick it up from me at the GP Social... :hnthnt:
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Lofty,
Rods are not ordinary levers i.e. they are not rigid, so when placed under load they flex and store energy, flex it more - store more energy.
I am of the belief that putting the stripping guide closer to the reel and fitting the rod with more guides allows the blank to start bending earlier and so the rod develops more flex under load; this flex translates into more stored energy that, when we release ( at the right moment in the cast) is transferred to the weight/lure - it flies further.
I did some static load tests of a rod by:
1. Hanging a fixed weight directly off the tip
2. Hanging it on the end of line threaded the line through the guides (conventional and KR)
The blank loaded via guides/line flexes deeper; of the two guide tests the KR layout stored more energy
More guides spreads the load over the length of the rod and also better controls line
Line under control is prevented from slapping against the blank - the major source of energy robbing friction
This reduction in friction pays dividends with lighter weights that have less momentum (momentum being the product of mass and velocity)
There is a balance between # of (small) guides increasing performance and too many guides hindering the recovery ability of a blank...
When Interline surf rods were introduced years ago they outcast conventional guide equipped rods because the blanks were loading deeper/better and the line was under "strict" control.
Friction would have seemed to be a limiting factor but the better loading and control offered outweighed the losses.
Using more small guides we mimic this characteristic; BUT we have less friction than when funnelling the line through the blank.
Out of interest, Interline surf rods are pretty much unknown in SA but if they were available would be very, very expensive. A top of the line Daiwa interline rod (not the ones available in the US) go for between $1800 and $2200.....
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can one buy a amnia blank to start off with to be custom built?
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I'm going to get my Exceler done by Brandon... watch this space. He just needs to pick it up from me at the GP Social... :hnthnt:
Reef that Exceler have a fantastic blank ! You going to turn your Exceler in a monster Spinning Machine !!! Would like to cast a Exceler after a KR Concept Conversion :win:
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can one buy a amnia blank to start off with to be custom built?
Think you must talk to CKLS. With a small reel like the Sustain 5000 I experienced a lot of braid slap against the blank. I think its
because the reel sits so close to the blank but it happens with every Spinning reel. But yes Fuji proved it to us in their video.
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I'm going to get my Exceler done by Brandon... watch this space. He just needs to pick it up from me at the GP Social... :hnthnt:
Nice! Looking forward to the report once completed!
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Following this topic with great interest.
What effect does the type of reel that will be used have on the "aparent" line slap when the braid is pulled off the reel.
The reason for my question relates to different reels having different foot angles that result in the spool either being angled towards the rod or alternatively running parrallel to the rod.
I beleive the new stella foot results in the spool being parralel to the rod and this apparently results in increased casting distance.
If the above is correct rods (guide spacing) should be designed to accommodate specific reels.
Does anyond have any experiece or insights in this regard?
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It does make a difference; ideally you want to build a rod around either a specific reel.
However it is not so critical that if for example you built it yourself or commissioned a rod around say a Sustain 5000 FG and in a years time you upgraded to a Stella 5000 SW that the rod would be "no good" with the reel.
I have built a couple of spinning sticks that were tested (by other anglers) with reels ranging in size from a Symetre 4000 up to a Saragossa 8000 and a 10000 Baitrunner
The rods performed very well with all reels.
We did a number of tests using 20lb braid with 55lb braid leaders; 35lb Nanofil with 50lb braid leaders; 0.22 mono with 0.55 mono leaders and 0.28mm mono with 0.55 mono leaders (all leaders were full length i.e at least 4 wraps around the spool with the sinker/lure at casting drop length. No issues with knots; over-choking or line slap were encountered.
Braid is easier to manage / massage down to the blank than mono so if it handles mono it will handle braid.
Of more importance than the axle angle is the diameter of the spool and the height/distance from the blank to the axle-tip and since most 5000 sized reels are approximately the same size.... a layout should work ok with them all. It is nice to design a layout that is perfect for a specific reel though.
The SW Stellas are pretty unique in having no axle angle/inclination, Shimano have come in for some criticism on the bigger Stellas used for jigging an popping where braid jumps off the line roller when the whole set up is under load; but I think this is unusual and not really applicable in this case
For the rods being discussed here i.e Shore Game / Land Based Game we are unlikely to spin for Queen Mackerel or Garrick with a Stella 20000SW and it seems to me, to revolve around the use of reels around the 5000 size, so I would only expect a problem if you used a Bullseye XT or Ultegra 14000 XSB on a rod set up for the "generic" Stradic 5000 or Sustain 5000. (or similar sized Daiwa/Penn etc)
For bigger and stronger rods (say 12' and longer capable of throwing 4 ounces and more) I would not suggest a KR Concept build (although it will work) I am convinced a Lowrider or KW layout would be a better option (Low Rider being my first choice as this system is brilliant at managing the coils of line from a BIG grinder down to almost zero after the 1st guide)
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Image is of a taped up 9' stick
(http://www.ultimateangling.co.za/file:///Users/brandon%201/Downloads/nine%20foot%201-2%20ounce.JPG)
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Good morning
Just a short feedback on the performance on my Amia rebuilt. A friend and I visited my brother in-law last weekend and we went
for casting with my new rebuilds. He took his Golf Range Finder with and I casts a new PB on my Amia, 133m with a 1.5oz SW
Spoon. The reel that i paired my Amia is a Sustain 5000 and 20lbs Suffix 832 braid. The bottle markers that you can see in
the pic on the river are at 126 meters. The best cast I got with the 30g Rapala MaxRap was 76 meters. Fantastic lure but eisch
that thing tumbles ..
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Hi Reefman, Fishatic,Carll
I'm also watching this thread with great interest. The thought that crosses my mind is why take an existing rod (and it seems that some of these are quite new) and rebuild using the KR concept. Would it not be more practical to source the appropriate blank and build from scratch? I'd be keen to join in a group to do a bulk deal. Your thoughts?
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You have a good point - it's cheaper and easier for a builder and owner to start from scratch.
However, how many of us have rods sitting unused because of dissatisfaction or damage?
These are candidates for high-performance re-builds.
There is a particular blank I like, that can only be obtained by purchasing a rod, however at the price it's well worth the effort....
Other rod-sourced blanks are less lets say "attractive" unless you bought the rod a while back, have used it and it needs a re-furnish...
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Fishatic - I have a 10' Shimano Aerocast that's literally brand new (someday I'll figure out that fishing is more important!!). The spinning weights I like to use range from 1oz-2.5oz. Would I be better off rebuilding what is really a nice outfit or going the route you mention. I'm not sure if you are at liberty to mention the rod/blank you refer to and some pricing details?
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Watch this space... 1x 10ft Exceler with blinged guides to be ready and tested at the social... :hnthnt:
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Refurbished grips too....
Sorry, could not help myself....
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Hey Fishatec. How much for the complete rod if u supply?
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Reefs - did you choose the 10' Exceller specifically for the blank or was it one that you didn't have much use for? I'm keen to know what properties of the 10' Exceller appealed to you?
Will watch this space and wait for report-back then...
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Exceler is generally a very good rod, rated 1-3oz. Mine is an old rod, I've got the first one that came out before the Saltwater and Elite.
I'm interested to see if the new guides setup allows one to actually cast a lighter weight. In my experience, the Exceler cannot cast 1 oz with any degree of decent loading and distance.
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This one is a very special 1-4 ounce rod.....
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Built on the same blank as the St Croix Legend Surf:
"Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) tooling technology[size=78%].[/size][/i]
Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™).
High modulus-high-strain SCIV graphite with FRS for unparalleled strength and durability[/size][size=78%].[/size]
Off-set, slim-profile ferrules on two-piece
models provide one-piece performance.
Designed for extreme surf fishing performance."
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This one is a very special 1-4 ounce rod.....
Should definitely come with its own rod tube...hehe
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How does that St Croix rod cast and do you have any St Croix blanks. If yes what ratings and how much would you charge for a complete rod?
I considered importing a Legend Surf but eventualy settled on a Lesath as the local St Croix agents did not really commit to obtaining the rod for me and did not comment on enquiry regarding warranty etc.
The rod I wanted cost 450usd and has a great waranty in the USA. Overseas fishing sites really rate the Legend surf and in fact all their rods look good.
I note per st Croix website the Legend Surf:
Fuji® LC surf guides with Alconite ring for greater casting distance and accuracy. Sloped frame reduces line tangling.
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The St Croix is a Legend... Sorry for very bad pun.
It is unbelievably light.
The 10' 1-4oz weighs 225g, COMPLETE rod.
Think carefully about that weight vs ability.
We are so used to heavy rods in SA that holding a rod like this, we do not quite believe.
I don't have another blank but will do some scratching around. I was VERY tempted to keep the one I posted but sold it this afternoon....
StCtoix have a fantastic new range of surf blanks that use SCIII graphite , slightly softer tips that should be good for lure throwing. Will check out availability and get back to you!!
Re the LC guides, whilst I love the low rider concept, the StCroix factory rods are not set up perfectly. The rod I posted pics of was set up with a KR Concept layout, St.Croix do not offer this option.
KR is more tolerant of guides closer to the ree especially with high reel positions, this benefits power, both for casting and pulling.
Thank you for the interest!!
Will get back to you.
Brandon
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I also felt like a lot of you in the beginning, why have a rod rebuilt if its already a good rod. The Assassin Amia is a fantastic rod!
Barry Wareham won't put his name on a product if it does not meet his high standards. But today I must say I see fishing rods in a different light since my Amia and his lighter brother has been rebuilt using the KR Concept..
Fishing rods are just like let's say for instance a 4x4 bakkie, you put better tyres on, add a canopy and the list goes on. The same could be said for boats,better props get added, better GPS etc. all this is done in order to increase the boats performance to meet the standards you want...
All rods bought off the shelf are not performing to its full potential. Fuji spent 3 years researching on how a rod can be changed so that it can perform at its maximum.
As artificial anglers what are we looking for? We want sensitivity , greater accuracy, greater casting distance, greater rod power, greater rod balance and definitely anti tangling for braid.
Thanks to Fuji all of the above mentioned are possible. Turning our spinning rods into MONSTER spinning rods. After Brandon rebuilt my 2 Assassin rods, I can honestly say they are totally different rods !
I have done a lot of research after Brandon posted about the KR Concept the first time. I feel that South Africa is very far behind compared to the Aussies and America.
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I am afraid the currency exchange rate makes it impossible to go for zero defect for the average angler. So the next best option is to go for "fit for purpose". I think on average this will do for most anglers with the kit you can buy over the shelve from good tackle shops, except perhaps the pro's like some of you guys posting on this thread.
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I just share my experience. I guess each to their own and also depends on what angling means to each individual and what he want.
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Firstly good morning to all fellow spinnermen. Durban's sea is on its head this morning. My early morning spinning session delivered nada! Secondly, well done on a very informative thread. I do not doubt the concept at all, I merely doubt the cost - benefit of it. But you are right, everyone has the choice to go for something or not. Great week to all of you!
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Just like to say that i'm super impressed with my purchase from fishatic aka brandon. :happ: great service and personal attention and i found him on :uarocks
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Just like to say that i'm super impressed with my purchase from fishatic aka brandon. :happ: great service and personal attention and i found him on :uarocks
Congrats with your new rod! I am also very interested, can you post a pic please?
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What did you buy? swr
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Tee hee...it's the st croix with kr conversion :yipee:
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No way! :shk Lucky bastid!! That's one of the best spinning rods I've ever seen! :cgrts:
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I'm looking to pair it up with sustain fg 5000/6000 ;not too sure as the 6000 has a slower retrieve but more line capacity.Would like to have ur guys advice on which to choose. :tkx:
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I would personally go for the 5000.
1. 300m is a HELL of a lot of line. Have you ever taken 300 BIG paces and then turned around to see just how far away you are from your starting point?
We are fixated on capacity, unless you are planning on targeting Sharks, I think 300m will be more than enough
2. I would imagine the slower retrieve of the 6000 is compensated for by the diameter of its spool; it is bigger so more line is brought in per revolution of the rotor, so much of a muchness.
3. Weight.... compare the advertised weight of each reel (most are inaccurate i.e indicate lower weight than actual) a 5000 is substantially lighter than a 6000/8000 (which often share a common body with different spools)
The heavier the reel the more weight there is to throw around. You will tire faster, especially your wrist.
Modern reels are technological marvels, most of us could get away with using much smaller reels than we think we need.
If guys can land a 50lb Tarpon with 300m of line on a flyreel with all its limitations......I think a 5000 Stradic will be perfect.
Have a look at alanhawk.com - the Stradic is his top choice for "budget" spinning reels (budget if compared to seriously expensive Stellas / Saltigas)
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Agree. 5000 is much better suited.
Stradic FJ is a great reel, but the Sustain FG is definitely better. So if it fits your budget, the Sustain 5000 is #1.
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Decided to get the sustain fj 5000 . Will 30 pound braid be suitable or should i go 20 pound. to cast 1 ounce jigs/lures? Any advice guys.
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20lb
Target species?
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:brnz: :billf: hehe... Any surf species.Will be fishing moz mainly from the islands around vilanculos.
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Ja 20 or 30 lb, not much difference. Try the Sufix 832... love the stuff!
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Is berkley whiplash any good?Gani's wants R500/300m for 30pound
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Is berkley whiplash any good?Gani's wants R500/300m for 30pound
It is good for backing. Not for casting. Look for a 8 strand braid.
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Whiplash is not the greatest casting braid... you need to look for an 8 strand weave - it is much rounder than the 4 weave braids, which tend to be flatter and therefore pack on the spool differently. The rounder braids peel off line much better.
PowerPro Superslick 8 or Sufix 832 are my recommendations for casting braid.
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:rotfl Poenskop beat me to it!
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Will 300m of 20lb suffix 832 green@R375.00 fill the reel,cause they come in 300m and 500m spools and i dont want to waste.otherwise it will be better to purchase a 30lb roll of 300m which should fill it.
All the replies are much appreciated.
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You Might need to use some mono backing with the 20lb
Do the following:
1. Wind all the braid on tightly then IF required fill the spool to just below (2-3mm) the tapered ARC spool rim with 15-20lb mono.
2. Wind the mono onto another old reel.
3. Wind the braid either onto another reel or back onto its packaging spool (use a drill on low speed)
4. Wind the backing onto the reel, join backing to braid
5. Wind braid onto reel.
If the above sounds like a schlepp, go for 30lb
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The rod and layout will cope easily with 40lb braid straight through
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Sufix 832 braid is a fantastic braid and cast great ! I have 20lbs Sufix 832 on my Sustain 5000 and 300 yards is enough. Test
was done and Sufix 832 20lbs breaks at 28 lbs. Thats also a great price for 300 yards,I think B Manning asking R500 for it. If I
were you I go for the 20 lbs. Here is a link about Sufix 832
[/size]http://www.rapala.com/sufix/braid/832-advanced-superlineandreg/832+Advanced+Superline.html[size=78%][/size][size=78%] [/size]
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The price they gave you on the 832 is really good and it is in my experience a very durable braid. Had it on my previous spinning reel and it got a lot of abuse whilst I was learning the ropes of spinning - lol! So you cannot go wrong with it. Barry Wareham recommended Gosen 25 lbs P2 braid to my and I have it on my stradic now. It gets a workout 5 mornings per week and it is also really good. It is also multi-colour so one can easily assess casting distance with every throw. But in terms of durability I dont see difference between the 832 and Gosen. So at your price go 832!
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Went with the 30 lb sufix 832. loaded straight onto spool without backing. Gani's salesman doesn't think that it will slip.
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Braid straight onto spool can slip especialy when being pulled by a big fish. Solution is to tie braid to spool wind two or three turns then place a strip of tape around spool over braid. The braid then tightens on tape which prevents braid from slipping around spool.
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I agree with Steenie there. Sufix 832 is very good braid but diameter wise is Gosen thinner and I think much better quality braid
than Sufix 832 braid ..[size=78%] [/size]
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Yes, that is what Barry pointed out to me. The diameter per lbs breaking strain difference is quite marked. He also warned me about tying braid directly to the spool without using tape. He said he fished for yellow fish in the Orange river once and could not understand why the fish he hooked was taking line whilst his drag was at its tightest. He then discovered it was the braid that was rotating on the spool! So it happens to even the pros! Lmao!!
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Hey Brandon.Any news on the st croix blanks as yet?Have interested parties wanting to know.
The St Croix is a Legend... Sorry for very bad pun.
It is unbelievably light.
The 10' 1-4oz weighs 225g, COMPLETE rod.
Think carefully about that weight vs ability.
We are so used to heavy rods in SA that holding a rod like this, we do not quite believe.
I don't have another blank but will do some scratching around. I was VERY tempted to keep the one I posted but sold it this afternoon....
StCtoix have a fantastic new range of surf blanks that use SCIII graphite , slightly softer tips that should be good for lure throwing. Will check out availability and get back to you!!
Re the LC guides, whilst I love the low rider concept, the StCroix factory rods are not set up perfectly. The rod I posted pics of was set up with a KR Concept layout, St.Croix do not offer this option.
KR is more tolerant of guides closer to the ree especially with high reel positions, this benefits power, both for casting and pulling.
Thank you for the interest!!
Will get back to you.
Brandon
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(clap) The jewels arrived! They will grace a DC Oval blank shortly.
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y407/Priester_Bulls/New%20Rod/EyesWeb_zpsd57010b0.jpeg)
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PM sent
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Hi Charles
You are going to enjoy that rod ! :grk:
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Build in progress!
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y407/Priester_Bulls/New%20Rod/image1_zpseb7748f7.jpeg)
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Hi Charles.
I think you cant wait to cast your new rod. I can tell you the DC Oval is a beast ! Rod will handle from 1-4oz in other words due to
the nature of the construction will do the work of a GraphCast II and GraphCast III Spinning Rod build by the Alocks in PE.
When are you coming home ?
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carll Years ago we used to have "7 days" in the military.......... I'm having 7 days this time, arriving on the 20th end leaving on the 27th. Not much time for fishing and a visit to the dentist is also on the cards BUT I will have a gooi or 3.
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whilst this may be deviating from the Assasin based start of the thread; images are of Charles' new Oval DC based KR Concept Spinning stick.
Charles i do hope you are impressed with its performance.....
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and a few more...
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Fishatic - can you post a pic of the tip if it's not too much trouble? Can this outfit really handle lures in the range 1oz-4oz. Many of the rods rated 50g - 100g cannot really handle a 100g lure - the sweet spot is around the 45g mark. I've researched this issue at length and spoken to many spinners and the general consensus is that the characteristics needed to load a rod with a 1oz and 4oz lure is vastly different hence the skepticism of this wide working range.
Would appreciate some feedback on this issue as I'm looking for an upgrade to my 10' Aerocast and the 1oz - 4oz is the range I'm looking for. What weight is this rod?
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The tip is the one part I did not take a photo of...
I have another rod with the same tip guide if that would help...
It really does handle 1-4. (I can throw 3/4oz on it and know of a few brave boys throwing 5 but would not recommend it😁)
Yes it does have a sweet spot: 2.5 to 3.5 but 4 is no problem.
My longest cast on this blank was done with a 4oz
The DC is quite unique, the Very stiff butt helps it throw heavy weights, the softer tip the lighter stuff - also helps with "give" when fighting fish.
It really is one if the most flexible (in terms of use not action) blanks around.
It is very light so spinning all day is not a schlepp, but can cast a wide range of weights so is good for scratching too..
If I were to ever be limited to one rod for a session it would be this one.
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:win:
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Fishatic - thanks for the details. Please post the pic if it's for the Oval DC blank. Would be great to get some feedback from Charles on this one as well...
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Met Charles at OR Tambo to hand rod over.
I think he is going to go and test-throw tomorrow.
I am sure it will be good...
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Hi Fishatic
The rod looks great.
Please can you post the weight of the rod and are these blanks availible in 11ft?
Thanks
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Nice and clean build, I like it.
Still don't like those guides, but I like what you have done.
It's been fun running into you the other day.
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Hi Charles.
Your rod look great ! (clap)
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Thanks Carl.
ET,
To each his own, they are about performance.
Set up correctly they outperform anything else.
BUT are not suitable for all blanks / type of rod.
Would not dream of setting up a 13' surf rod with them.
Until uou actually cast one.....
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Luckyhoock,
You are looking at around 265g-275g all up weight
11' nope. 10'6" then 12'...
10'6" throws circles around others sticks and us lighter in the hand.
It's not always about absolute weight but how it balances in your hand.
I think I need to build a demo rod......
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and a few more...
The Rod looks awesome ! You have got a lot of skill and talent. (clap)
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Dankjewel!!
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Building a full titanium SIC version this week.
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Still don't like those guides, but I like what you have done.
? I'm confused now. Why don't you like the guides? Have you seen the video of how they function? (post #1 in this thread).
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Hi Reef
How is your Exceler performing with the KR Concept ?
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Still don't like those guides, but I like what you have done.
? I'm confused now. Why don't you like the guides? Have you seen the video of how they function? (post #1 in this thread).
:corrct:
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the main thing I like about it is u have more eyes which bring s the line closer to the blank-so more power gets transferred, will it cast further? and if so its gonna be maybe 5-10%
some more hype
http://conceptcustomrods.ro/fuji-kr-concept/ (http://conceptcustomrods.ro/fuji-kr-concept/)
soon I will know when I get mine
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Hi Reef
How is your Exceler performing with the KR Concept ?
I've only spent one quick session at the last social giving it a whirl.
Has definitely given the rod a more responsive loading effect when casting lighter lures. Also, estimate maybe a 15% increase in casting distance throughout the range.
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"Also, estimate maybe a 15% increase in casting distance throughout the range."
so is that gonna mean 15% more fish or 15% bigger fish w;k
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"Also, estimate maybe a 15% increase in casting distance throughout the range."
so is that gonna mean 15% more fish or 15% bigger fish w;k
No, just less rods to take with on the long walks... to cover the range properly.
Before, had to take the Amia for up to 1.5oz, Exceler for up 2-3oz, and Poseidon Ultra light for 3-4oz... :cnfzd
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"Also, estimate maybe a 15% increase in casting distance throughout the range."
so is that gonna mean 15% more fish or 15% bigger fish w;k
No, just less rods to take with on the long walks... to cover the range properly.
Before, had to take the Amia for up to 1.5oz, Exceler for up 2-3oz, and Poseidon Ultra light for 3-4oz... :cnfzd
and that is still only a third of what Pike carries with him w;k
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Just to put the weight issue into perspective:
1x LC20 stainless steel /Alconite stripping guide weighs 21.4g
3x what the entire guide train on Dave's stick weighs.
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Just to put the weight issue into perspective:
1x LC20 stainless steel /Alconite stripping guide weighs 21.4g
3x what the entire guide train on Dave's stick weighs.
That's incredible!!
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so I can carry 1 more 3/4oz plug
mmmm or 1 more tot of rum
at my age it all helps
w;k
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The rod is pretty light at 265g to 275g.
Weighed a lesath 11ft and is 280g and 11ft Saltist was 315g.
Build looks great.
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Will hopefully be in KZN in December
Will be based in salt rock (Brettonwood) with the folks.
Maybe you could give it a test...
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Brandon thanks for the rod. I am impressed with the craftsmanship. I was a bit busy today and did not have a throw. Will go tomorrow and give a report later.
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Dave's Titanium SIC KR Concept guides arrived from the states.
They really are beautiful little things..
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hi guys could i ask what size guides you are using for the 11ft rods ,thanks
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Mike it depends on the reel / line combination, but typically a high framed 20; high framed 10 or 12, medium framed 8 then 8 runners to an 8 tip
There are other possibilities within the KR Concept
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Hi Michael, nice seeing you on UA!
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Michael, steenie = Riekert.
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he he howz it steenie nice weather .umm fishatic im using a ballistic 4000sh with a saltist 11ft bud .just wondering what size would be best .
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Hahahaha yes Michael, the greatest weather treat of the year awaiting us this weekend hey?
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i have also been on the inter web checking out these kr guides .and my brain is fried with all the options .
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20H, 12H, 8M, KT8 runners, MN8 tip
Can throw 50lb braid leader no problem.
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Had a couple of sessions with my DC Oval paired with a Sustain 5000 and am impressed with this rod. It is very light, casts a mile and I am comfortable with it. Definitely my go to rod for spinning and hunting the cobbies on dropshot.
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Hi Charles
The feedback about the DC rod is only what I have heard. It would have been better if you could cast with normal rod guides including the Fuji KR Concept to be able to experience the big difference the KR Concept makes. I'm honest if I say it has made the biggest difference to my Assasin Spin and Amia. If I have to buy a spinning rod again I will definitely change the rod guides to Fuji's KR Concept Guides. Please post a few pic of your rod please :-)
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Top grip and graphic
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Oops, double post of pic...
Stripping guide.
Transition guide
Reel seat with choke guide
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Carll I have a few spinning or dropshot rods, all in the 10' to 11' range and casting weight from 1 to 4oz. I don't have an Amia but can safely say that I get much greater distances with the DC Oval and .KR concept guides.
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Ok, from my previous post on this thread it is obvious that I questioned the cost : benefit ratio of this conversion on the Amia. It would take a lot of convincing for me to spend up to R1150 on top of the rod purchase price of around R1400. But I do not question the concept at all. So here is my question:
Can any of the rod builders give their opinions or predictions on what the KR concept conversion would do to the performance of the Assassin Sierra 330H (1-2 oz)? I am not talking line tangles here (because this can be solved without expensive rod guides), but in terms of casting distance, sensitivity etc.?
I would really appreciate your feedback, because I got the Sierra 2 weeks ago and it is simply phenomenal in terms of performance relative to my x-heavy Amia. So the idea of getting even more out of this rod for a much smaller fraction of the rod purchase price (compared to the Amia) is very tempting indeed to me!
Much appreciated!
Riekert
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Oops, double post of pic...
Stripping guide.
Transition guide
Reel seat
(clap)
Great work again Brandon .. 12/10 for you work ! This pictures are worth a thousand words !
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Hi Steenie,
First off, Microwave guides are neither bad nor cheap:
Microwave Duralite rings as fitted to Amia
$32.48
9 guides: 1x 20/7; 1x7; 7x5
Additional size 5 running guide $2.16
Microwave Nanoloite rings as fitted to Sierra
$41.93
9 guides: 1x 20/7; 1x7; 7x5
Additional size 5 running guide $2.88
A DIRECT comparison to Equivalent Fuji KR Concept (Alconite rings are roughly equivalent to Nanolite)
$27.01
9 guides 1x KL20H; 1xKL10H; 1xKL7L; 2xKB5; 4x KT5
Additional size 5 running guide: $2.49
Note prices mentioned above exclude shipping to SA and the customs VAT that needs to be paid - its just for your understanding
A set Microwave guides consists of 9 guides. You can add size 5 running guides, but that is the only option.
Whilst your fishing may not require a 6m 0.5mm mono or 50lb braid leader, I, and others DO use such set-ups. Microwave is not so good at handling the knots
An important performance difference is the flexibility of KR.
Inasmuch Microwave guides are very clever and do boost performance (with the correct line and short leader) their shortcoming is a single set up:
Size 20/7 stripping guide
Size 7 intermediate/transition guide
Size 5 running guides.
No other options
Fuji’s KR Concept is a system, not a one size fits all KIT.
KR Possibilities:
Stripping guides: 16, 20 and 25 (high)
1st Intermediate guide: 12, 10, 8 (high)
2nd Intermediate guide: 8, 7, 6 (medium)
3rd intermediate guide: 7, 6, 5.5 (low) Not always required and can in fact replace the 2nd intermediate guides above depending on rod type, length, reel and line to be used
Running guides: 10, 8, 7, 6, 5.5, 4
This means I can build a high performance stick from ultra light to heavy shore game rods capable of taming yellowtail.
I can build a rod that does not need to accommodate a heavy mono leader or one I can build one that shrugs it and the attendant knots off no problem
Amtac have been very good with their marketing, getting some major (and minor) manufacturers to use the Microwave System.
Fuji in their more “humble” Japanese style are perhaps not so effective at marketing relying on word of mouth to get the idea out there.
However their are factory built sticks with KR concept layouts. (I not seen one in SA yet)
Have a look at the Shimano USA website (fish.shimano.com/publish/content/global_fish/en/us/index/products/rods/freshwater/cumara.html) - the NEW Cumaras that are not available her are fitted with KR Concept layouts
Abu Garcia have recently launched a series of light / slow-jigging sticks called Salty Stage KR-X Jig and Salty Stage KR-X Light Jig that feature the system (abugarcia-fishing.com.au/product/salty-stage-kr-x-light-jigging/)
There a re a number of high end Japanese rod manufacturers such as Tenryu (fishing.tenryu-magna.com) that use them on rods costing upwards of $400.00
Its not BS and does not cost the earth. Its not cheap but since when is quality tackle cheap?
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Regarding my direct Microwave / KR comparison in my last post:
I would NOT suggest using size 5 running guides on a rod that will be used in the surf.
Ever.
Size 7 is my personal suggested minimum for the lightest most crisp rod response whilst still being strong enough and large enough to let knots fly through without hanging up
Size 8 for stronger sticks
Size 10 for beasts
Size 5's are for bass rods.
Of interest, Fuji are introducing double-foot KR Concept stripping and transition guides in December for this that do not trust single foot guides. Cant wait to try 'em
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Thank you for putting the guides on the Sierra and the KR concept guides into perspective and sharing your knowledge on this! Clearly it is going to be a difficult decision on conversion or not. In your reply it is clear that the setup on the Sierra is very good if you do not use a braid leader. I don't use one, like many of the spinning chaps in KZN, but others do. And clearly the chap doing the rod conversion will have to know exactly what he is doing to get further optimisation on the Sierra's performance.
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Steenie I have just had 2 rods redone by Brandon aka Fishatic and let me tell you the change is unbelievable on the first rod I collected (Haven't collected the second so can't comment there yet).
I will ignore casting distance for the moment because before having my rod redone we did some measured casts at Leeukop that averaged at about 130m. I have only cast the redone rod over dry land so not comparing apples with apples (though even over dry land it is outcasting my distance at the dam :shk)
The single biggest improvement for me has been the sensitivity of the blank. The only way I ca explain the change is like your first experience with braid. You remember when every time your sinker rolled you thought you had a bite :hehe: same thing. I am pretty sure I could tell the geological composition of the ocean floor with this rod!
Unfortunately the only way to really tell how much it changes your rod is to cast one of Brandon's creations
PS: Look out for a full write up on my rod in a week or so once I get some time to take decent photos and test cast it at a dam.
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Steenie I have just had 2 rods redone by Brandon aka Fishatic and let me tell you the change is unbelievable on the first rod I collected (Haven't collected the second so can't comment there yet).
I will ignore casting distance for the moment because before having my rod redone we did some measured casts at Leeukop that averaged at about 130m. I have only cast the redone rod over dry land so not comparing apples with apples (though even over dry land it is outcasting my distance at the dam :shk)
The single biggest improvement for me has been the sensitivity of the blank. The only way I ca explain the change is like your first experience with braid. You remember when every time your sinker rolled you thought you had a bite :hehe: same thing. I am pretty sure I could tell the geological composition of the ocean floor with this rod!
Unfortunately the only way to really tell how much it changes your rod is to cast one of Brandon's creations
PS: Look out for a full write up on my rod in a week or so once I get some time to take decent photos and test cast it at a dam.
Thank you for your detailed reply. Looking forward to your report. Cheers, Riekert.
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Hi Half Pint,
Very good post from you making your experience clear about the . I had 2 rods redone by Brandon aka Fishatic and let me tell you the change is unbelievable on rods. I didn't made the post to make the point that it is always hard to give an objective perspective on something that you just bought and spend a lot of money on it because you always want to justify the purchase because it's human nature! I don't know how anybody that has not seen or tried the KR Concept on their spinning rods can question Fuji's invention. It's not Brandon's invention BUT Fuji's. Brandon is the first rod builder in SA as far as I am aware that started building with Fuji's KR Concept. He has done a lot of research, he used international forums to get information and spoke to the overseas spinning anglers. He tested in various variations before he made any posts in SA about the Concept. Anybody that has met him will know that his knowledge about rod blanks and guides is fantastic. He had my Amia for 3 weeks and tested it rigorously with different guide sizes and guide spacing’s. I even thought at one point I will never get my rod back.... hahahaha but that was once again proof about how passionate Brandon is about his work and know what’s he doing, he even gave me daily feedback on the progress that was being made.
Fuji is a huge international company that has been building high quality guides for years. Fuji, I believe Fuji would not make a statement Internationally about standard guide layouts and Micro guides, that the Micro Concept is good but they weren't satisfied. They spent an estimated $2 million on research to develop the K-Series guides. All Fuji's research and statements is available to read on the internet. Fuji even went further to prove that the standard rod layout is not 100% ......in their video it clearly shows what happens with a standard guide and the micro guide setup.
It totally confuses me that some people see it in slow motion exactly what happens with the different layouts and still question it ?,,,,, but maybe they don't want to see or even understand how the KR Concept works .....and making funny posts and and and about the KR Concept … oh well! Why would millions Anglers change their Rock and Surf Rods standard rod guides ? and even paying more ? Its all about better performance and and and …
Most rods off the shelf come out with standard guide layouts. There is an international diagram that they work according to, to make the guide spacing’s and our rods mass produce. My Assassin Amia came out with high quality rod guides BUT the KR Concept has put the Assassin blanks in a whole new dimension. I was so satisfied after both my spinning rods were converted to Fuji's KR Concept that I shared my experience with this forum so that they can get the same satisfaction that I experienced. I could have kept it to myself but I believe we are here to share tips and information with each other.
Price wise...... yes it is expensive because of the Rand being so weak compared to the Dollar... but I look at it this we spend a lot of money on braid,lures,reels and new cars and 4x4 Bakkies, bigger inter-coolers, new computer chips to get more performance out of what we have just bought EVEN if it costs more..... LOL!
The same goes for me with regards to fishing tackle and accessories. Can I question member X that he bought a Shimano Stella and then say the price is crazy? hahaha I wouldn't because I don't have a Stella and I have never fish with one and also know nothing about the reels performance.
Oh and I dont think that im a Pro as called in one of the comments here. As they say in Afrikaans.... "Om the lees en the meet is om the weet" in my opinion!
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Fortunately I am 95% sold on the concept - fishatic I will PM you soon to discuss the conversion of my Sierra, and the potential performance enhancement, in an objective fashion. Cheers, Riekert.
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Thanks Brandon for your advice on converting the Assassin Sierra to KR-concept. I send all the important measurements of rod guide spacing etc. etc. through to him so that he could assess the design that the rod came out with. The verdict is that the design on the rod with the micro guides is very good. But that he should be able to get an extra couple of meters, and perhaps some added sensitivity out of the rod with KR-concept. His suggestion to me was to use the rod "as is" until the micro guides have reached the end of their useful life. Then I am going to send my rod to him for the conversion. I am not using braid leaders, and I do not suffer from wind knots (after Basil Manning set my reel up for me), so the micro guides are absolutely fine for now. But I am looking forward to try the KR concept on the Sierra.
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Look forward to hearing from you.
B
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For a while I have been chatting to tackle-holic - Convert my Assassin Sierra H to KR Concept guide system
Tackle-holic converted both my Assassin Amia and Spin to the KR Concept guide system. There was a huge increase in performance after the conversion. I can't wait to get my Sierra back to try it out with the new KR guides.
Maybe TH can give more information on my Sierra's new conversion.
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Rod is done, bar KR Concept logo to be applied.
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I know the concept works.
Every.
Single.
Time.
A winner.
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Thank you Brandon - the build quality is great as always and the end product ! (clap)
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Oh man ! I got my Assassin Sierra back from Fishatic " Brandon" today with Fuji KR concept guides fitted. It looks good, it feels good ! Thanks Brandon - the build quality is great as always and I know the end product is an absolute pleasure to use.Tomorrow morning is testing time !
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Oh man ! I got my Assassin Sierra back from Fishatic " Brandon" today with Fuji KR concept guides fitted. It looks good, it feels good ! Thanks Brandon - the build quality is great as always and I know the end product is an absolute pleasure to use.Tomorrow morning is testing time !
Congratulations on joining the Sierra - KR concept club! I simply love the conversion that Brandon did on mine. I am sure you will love it as well. We have arguably one of the best 1 - 2 oz spinning rod - guide systems out there!
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I had my 14ft Superslim done with KR Concept's by Brandon as well. Beautiful to cast!
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Brandon the KR thread is very quite, What's up ?
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Well, I am busy doing all the research to give the KR guide concept a bash on some medium to heavy 7 foot dropshop rods. Reels will be shimano 8000 size. I am coming to the conclusion that one should not be hesitant to play with the guide layout after the initial calculations, mainly going out and cast with the guides taped on, and then make some adjustments to fine tune line flow and eliminate line slapping against the blank, and then using static loading to finetune the runner guide layout. Quite a mouthful.
Main expectations for me will be improvement of rod sensitivity and pulling ability as casting distance is not critical when dropshotting of the boat at sea.
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I would suggest based on reel size using an NGC layout. (New Guide Concept)
It will be better suited to your relatively large reel.
You mentioned 8k size - which reel and what braid?
Work on 7-8 guides + a tip top.
Two Nice starting points:
KW30 KL20 KL12 reduction train and depending on line and leader 4-5x KT7/KT8
KW30 KW25 KL16 KT10 reduction train and depending on line and leader 4x KT7/KT8
Tape and test: cardinal rule.
Are you going to build it your self? (hope so)
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The more I read the more I realised that a NGC guide layout might be the route to follow with this one, and you have just confirmed it.
Rčels will be the older Japanese Stella SW8000HG, silver and gold model with Gosen PE3 for the one setup and a Twinpower 10000HG with Gosen PE4 for the heavier setup.
Thanks for your advice on the reduction train.
Will be doing the rods myself.
I need some advice on a clearcoat to use once I have stripped and sanded the rods.
Thanks
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Will also be doing spinning setup to be used with a Stradic 5000 and Gosen PE2. This one will be a KLH reduction train
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There a are a couple of ways to finish it:
Sand down the blank, with 400 grit wet and dry paper. Use lots of water with a couple of drops of dish-washing liquid in it as a lubricant.
Scratch proof finish:
Sand down to 1000 grit with LOTS of water and dish-washing liquid as a lubricant.
Done. That's it. Doesn't scratch, peel or lift. Ever.
U40 Permagloss (its a pre-catalized one-part urethane, stinks like hell but final result is good)
You will need a power wrapper to get this right
Here's a YT video:
https://youtu.be/Sg1oZHn41aw
Rattle can spray.
This is actually pretty easy.
I like Heritage brand in clear gloss as it is suitable for outdoor use and the final finish can be very good if you put in a bit of extra effort:
Many light coats, don't try it get it done in 1 or 2. 5-8 light coats with 15 minutes between coats.
Let it dry for AT LEAST 24 hours.
Knock back the finish with 1200 grit wet and dry paper, lots of water and some dish-washing liquid.
Then the trick: Polishing Cream.
I like the L100 from Luxor (hardware stores often carry it or can get it for you)
Use a damp cloth and polish and polish and polish.
With effort you will get an absolutely flat finish with no orange peel effect.
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(clap)
Thank you for some great advice. Your effort in this reply is appreciated.
I have just moved house this weekend, so will start shortly once settled.
Thanks again, and have some cred
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Great info from Brandon there! Not too many professional Rodbuilders who would share their trade secrets like that. :+ cred: :resp:
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Great info from Brandon there! Not too many professional Rodbuilders who would share their trade secrets like that. :+ cred: :resp:
:corrct: A master and a gentleman.
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Thanks again Brandon, I am getting a great finish following your advice to sand down and polish.
Still waiting for my guides. Ordered some Fuji guides with fazlite rings.
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Looking good Willie! Talented boy!
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Ordered some Fuji guides with fazlite rings.
Fazlite are really good value.
Just built myself two rods using them; a 3m Shore Slow jigging stick and a 2.9m plugging stick.
Very happy with performance
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I’m looking at buying a 9ft Amia here in Australia, does anyone know if the latest rods have upgraded guides from earlier models?
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Y frame Fujis with Aluminium Oxide centres.
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So now my question is, do I buy the Amia Zero with Fuji guides or up grade my Amia (microwave eyes).Will the zero give me more distance and will it cast lighter lures ?
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I'm getting good distance now but yesterday I was throwing at a shoal of Garfish and while I could reach them I wanted to get past them. The picture shows the bend in the Amia on casting . The Magic Missile spoon can be seen just to my left just above the horizon. It took me a while to see the direction the rod was bending. My boys call me "ol sidewinder"and stand well clear when I'm casting.
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Nice loading on the rod , i would just upgrade the eyes on the Amia ... did it to mine makes a difference .. :Like:
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Sidewinder,
Nothing wrong with coming around the side - you are increasing the arc through which the rod moves.
However:
Your arms are collapsing against your body and you are pushing more than pulling down with the left.
Get that left hand UP above eye level, straighter right arm; almost like you are giving the rod to someone standing in front of you.
When your left hand can go no further, pull down hard bringing the rod butt around your body
You will cast further with less effort
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Thanks guys I'll try that. Do you think the Fuji upgrade will give me more distance ? I tried to send a short video but the file is too big and I have no idea on how to reduce it.
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Thanks guys I'll try that. Do you think the Fuji upgrade will give me more distance ? I tried to send a short video but the file is too big and I have no idea on how to reduce it.
IF you do the KR concept upgrade, it should increase your distances. My Amia is done at last with the same guides. Will post pics and results soon enough.
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Proper guides and specifically proper guide placement will transform your rod. It is actually hard to believe just what an impact they make.
In my opinion a R500 rod re-done with correct guides and guide placement will outperform a R5000.00 rod with poor guides and placement by a significant amount.
Do the upgrade, you will absolutely not be sorry!
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Well my boys have decided to pay for the upgrade for fathers day. Pleasecould you pm me the costs and shipping address etc. Is there the option of stainless or black eyes. How long do you need the rod for ? Im stuck in the "Hillcrest Hilton"for probably another week.
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Sorry its an 11ft amia heavy with microwave eyes
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You should get an email.....
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Thanks Fishatec. In hospital at the moment and dont have access to my email from my phone (oldschool).doc said looks loke home tomorrow and I'll contact you from there.
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Proper guides and specifically proper guide placement will transform your rod. It is actually hard to believe just what an impact they make.
In my opinion a R500 rod re-done with correct guides and guide placement will outperform a R5000.00 rod with poor guides and placement by a significant amount.
Do the upgrade, you will absolutely not be sorry!
It's all relative and it all depends on what R500 rod you buy now eh. Not sure you get many R5k rods with poor guides are placement. R5k rod that comes to mind immediately in this category is the new Assassin Sierra..
Assuming I miraculously got an Amia for R500. A KR upgrade will cost around R1500 or so. After the upgrade the Sierra wont outcast the Amia enough to justify the R3k price difference. So on this point, I agree with you but that only assuming i can find a R500 Amia somewhere... :hehe:
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Proper guides and specifically proper guide placement will transform your rod. It is actually hard to believe just what an impact they make.
In my opinion a R500 rod re-done with correct guides and guide placement will outperform a R5000.00 rod with poor guides and placement by a significant amount.
Do the upgrade, you will absolutely not be sorry!
It's all relative and it all depends on what R500 rod you buy now eh. Not sure you get many R5k rods with poor guides are placement. R5k rod that comes to mind immediately in this category is the new Assassin Sierra..
Assuming I miraculously got an Amia for R500. A KR upgrade will cost around R1500 or so. After the upgrade the Sierra wont outcast the Amia enough to justify the R3k price difference. So on this point, I agree with you but that only assuming i can find a R500 Amia somewhere... :hehe:
You would be surprised how average a lot of hyped up rods are these days. Marketing is a powerful tool.
I have casted (and fished) quite a few rods where I thought this must be the latest and greatest blank however they have turned out to be vengeance's, pioneers etc. Its not to say that every low priced blank is a beauty waiting to be revealed but the fact is that a lot of cheap rods are let down more by poor guides, guide placement and unnecessary paintwork etc.
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I have two rods converted by fishatic. A DC oval and an Assassin, both fitted with identical Sustain reels. I am yet to decide which one is my go to rod. Both are fantastic.
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Proper guides and specifically proper guide placement will transform your rod. It is actually hard to believe just what an impact they make.
In my opinion a R500 rod re-done with correct guides and guide placement will outperform a R5000.00 rod with poor guides and placement by a significant amount.
Do the upgrade, you will absolutely not be sorry!
It's all relative and it all depends on what R500 rod you buy now eh. Not sure you get many R5k rods with poor guides are placement. R5k rod that comes to mind immediately in this category is the new Assassin Sierra..
Assuming I miraculously got an Amia for R500. A KR upgrade will cost around R1500 or so. After the upgrade the Sierra wont outcast the Amia enough to justify the R3k price difference. So on this point, I agree with you but that only assuming i can find a R500 Amia somewhere... :hehe:
You would be surprised how average a lot of hyped up rods are these days. Marketing is a powerful tool.
I have casted (and fished) quite a few rods where I thought this must be the latest and greatest blank however they have turned out to be vengeance's, pioneers etc. Its not to say that every low priced blank is a beauty waiting to be revealed but the fact is that a lot of cheap rods are let down more by poor guides, guide placement and unnecessary paintwork etc.
On the marketing side, i completely agree. There is too much hype these days and the product of which is a R5-R7k rod because it has all the latest tech etc. One that comes to mind are the Daiwa rods from Kingfisher. I love the Daiwa brand cos I have always fished with Daiwa reels but I have to admit a lot of marketing has went into those rods especially when you have a look at them up close. Only the higher end Saltiga has any semblance of good guides and decent finishing..
On your last point I agree also, which why is stand by custom built rods. Always have and will continue to do so..
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I have two rods converted by fishatic. A DC oval and an Assassin, both fitted with identical Sustain reels. I am yet to decide which one is my go to rod. Both are fantastic.
Assassin Amia and Sustain 5000?
I have that setup also... :bow:
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Couriers coming to fetch my rod on Wednesday.
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Fishatec I took your advice on lifting my left hand higher and pulling down. Definitely made a difference with the spoon going quite a bit higher and further. Thanks for the tip.
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Got my Amia back from Brandon this morning. Excellent job, rod really looks great. Hoping to get down to the cottage and try it out before my Vidal trip.
Thanks again Brandon
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Fishatec I took your advice on lifting my left hand higher and pulling down. Definitely made a difference with the spoon going quite a bit higher and further. Thanks for the tip.
Been learning the spin with a multiplier the last two years and my mentor had me learn from the word go to take my left elbow, lift it up and point it where you want the bait/lure to land..In the cast, follow your left hand through where your elbow was and right hand where your left hand was and so on..cast will follow the right line and action and load will be timed right..Cast will fly out and lyou can feather to land spot on the mark.. The push pull action and hammer will come naturally.. It has changed my casting style of decades and even when I spin with a grinder now I am more accurate and cast further..same deal as fishatics' advice above but I was given a different explanation. May help you.
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Took my newly upgraded Amia to Vidal this weekend. Very very happy with its performance. The heavier lures like the Magic Missile go a mile while I can't see where my little Bite Me spoon lands but it's a lot further than usual. Thanks again Brandon
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Hi guys,
Can someone put me in the touch with Brandon Fishatic, by PM me his cellphone number or right email address?
I tried to contact him by email listed on his profile, but no answer.
Brandon, if you read this please PM me.
Yes, I want to convert few of my rods from factory to KR concept.
Thanks
Blinker
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08three 2three0 144zero - BRANDON
Only SENIOR members get to use PM.
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Hi guys,
Can someone put me in the touch with Brandon Fishatic, by PM me his cellphone number or right email address?
I tried to contact him by email listed on his profile, but no answer.
Brandon, if you read this please PM me.
Yes, I want to convert few of my rods from factory to KR concept.
Thanks
Blinker
No email received.Reefz posted my mobile - Call me.Happy to chat.
Brandon
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Thanks,contact achieved!
Very soon, one more Assassin Sierra will be converted to KR stuff by Brandon.