rod handles (cork)

[Chip_Flipper]

Do any of you put a protector sealer on the cork handles of your rods? In a magazine I saw a tip for this its called cork life it is made for the exposed corklayer insome shoes soles just paint it on. Sounds good but haven’t a clue were to buy it. Any other ways to prevent the cork from breaking down.Thanks Chip
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[Bowfin]

Bierkenstock makes a cork sealer/conditioner for their sandals and shoes. It's a white liquid in an applicator bottle. I don't know where to purchase it, though. I got mine at a Bierkenstock shoe store in SLC that is now out of business. Hope I didn't throw mine away. Might have to try it on a rod handle.
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[BEARCLAW]

Haven't heard about the cork preservative. However, when one of my rod handles (cork or foam) starts to breakdown or show signs of wear, I simply use 1inch "heat shrink" and cut it to the desired length. Then heat it up and it shrinks around the old handle. Makes for a nice "rubberized feel. I buy it at an electrical supply store. Just an idea... []
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[TubeDude]

[cool][blue][size 1]Hey Chipper, I would get some input from a few different cork handle fans before you invest in that stuff or apply it to a favorite rod. Unless you plan to soak your rod handle in the water a lot, you will ruin the natural feel and non-slip properties of good cork. Sealer tends to make the cork slippery when wet and can result in a long-distance cast with the ROD, rather than the fly or lure.[/size][/blue]

[#0000ff][size 1]Taking good care of your cork handles will be better for them over many years than applying a sealer. Clean them with a mild soap solution and dry thoroughly before storing. If they get a little stain, use very fine sand paper or even steel wool to brighten up the appearance.[/size][/#0000ff]

[#0000ff][size 1]If you merely want something waterproof, go for the foam handles. They can tolerate a lot more abuse, but they are not traditional and are not usually favored by more serious anglers. However, I gotta admit that I do build some of my workhorse sticks with foam handles.[/size][/#0000ff]
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[HFT]

I have never been a fan of cork sealer, the first thing it does is make a brand new handle look like it has been used for a year not to mention the change of feel it has.
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[Chip_Flipper]

Hey Thanks abunch guys, I like Tube Dudes idea the best .chip
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[gshadow]

I build rods and have never put anything onto the cork. tubedude took the words out of my mouth, keep them clean and they will last for a long time. the oils in your hand will act as a water proofing but dont let it build up.
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