Rating a rod?

[John F]

What is the process of rating a rod (Game/R&S/jigging/etc)?

I've a few old rods at home with almost no inscriptions on the brand/rating/etc... apart from a personal guest how does a rod builder rates a rod? How CAN I have a better idea if the rod is 30, 50 or 80 Lber?

Anyway to find out without destroying it?

Thanks!

[Capt. Hook]

John you also need to consider that action and the taper of the rod to determine its application.

Eg. Jigging rods are stiff with a slow taper, where as a trolling rod is slower with a faster taper and so on.

[Rory mundy]

when they build the blank they test it with a scale on machine that pull it like you are onto a fish till it breaks

[PH]

I'm learning a lot on this forum!!!

[John F]

when they build the blank they test it with a scale on machine that pull it like you are onto a fish till it breaks

Thanks guys...

So there is no way I can tell FOR SURE a rod is a 50 Lber without breaking it...

So will have to keep trying and feel how each rod feels" "till I'm confortable

[benniejordaan]

The best for you John is to pull the rod while attached to a scale until you feel it is bending to where it should be at maximum. Then check the weight you pulling on the scale. If the load is 10kg X 3=30kg=60Lb it should be a 50Lb rod. You can also compare it to a similar known rod. Another option will be to check the net for similar blanks and compare the dimensions. The tip diameter will give you an idea. If you are going to rebuild them, make notes of where the guides are placed before you strip it. Copy what's already there.

[John F]

Shot Bennie useful tip (as always)... this is a very OLD offshore rod and it's heavy and thick.... will give it a try and check the bending...

[REEFMAN]

When you break it send it to me John... I need to build a new spooling station...! 

[John F]

You know how these things turn out hey Reefz.... this rod didn't get to old age for being soft and weak LOL.... I'm sure even if I try I won't be able to break this thing...