NFC 806-1(HM) OR 808-1(HM) ????

[5poundhooker]

I need to know if the 808-1(HM) is the way to go for jigs and heavy cover (pads and weeds) pitching or is the 806-1(HM) plenty sufficient. I don't want a broom stick, but do want the power to pull bass out of pads and be comfortable fishing all day with the rod. Is there another model I should chose instead? I do want a NFC blank though. I appreciate the help and opinions of you guys that are in the know. I don't have any experience with these blanks, so I don't know what all of the power ratings mean as far as lifting and stiffness. Is there any coupon codes that you guys know of for Anglers Workshop or the other NFC distributor?? Thanks a lot guys.

[Mattman]

The 808 gives similar power numbers to the Loomis MB844.

I don't feel the 808 is a broomstick by any means. I'd probably steer you to the 809 even.

The 808 measured out at 61° so it isn't super fast either. On the slow end of fast.

I haven't measured one yet, but one of the Flip models might work as well.

Bingham Enterprises is having (or was not too long ago) a sale on NFC blanks. Over stock I believe. You'll need to check if any of those are available.

[5poundhooker]

Thanks you Mattman. I won't be using jigs any heavier than 1/2 oz. other than maybe 1 oz. flipping weights occasionally. Is the 809 going to balance out well without using a balancing system of any kind? I don't like adding weight if it can be avoided. I will also check Bingham to see if it is still on. I appreciate the quick feedback.

[Ryan808]

I would also steer you towards the 809. I have built on several 809 and balances out if you take a little off the length. The specs say minimum 1/2 on its range, but still works great with weights slightly lighter.

[Mattman]

Is the 809 going to balance out well without using a balancing system of any kind?

"Balance out well" is in the eye of the beholder. Personally, most 8' blanks don't balance well in my opinion. So I make the handles as long as possible, use heavier materials, and try to go as light as possible on the guides and call it good. If tip up were critical, I'd use a balancing system.

[5poundhooker]

Thanks I really do appreciate the feedback on the NFC blanks. I can't wait to build this beast of a rod. Two more questions (well for now) Mattman. What do you mean by heavier handle materials? What type of reel seat would you use on such a large diameter blank? I may cut 3-4 inches or so off if that will help with balance. I will also be using K-series micros after a double foot #6 titanium stripper. I have read such great things about NFC and your posts about them Mattman, that made me decide to go this route instead of a K2(I don't think I would like an un-sanded finish, but do like the butt section a lot.

[Mattman]

What do you mean by heavier handle materials?

Burl cork. Rubberized cork. Hypalon.

Straight cork and EVA are really light and if you're chasing balance without just adding weight, staying away from these materials is helpful.

What type of reel seat would you use on such a large diameter blank?

A 17mm SK2 fit the 808.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t288 ... C00453.jpg

So most any seat should work. Size the seat to your hand, not the rod. (other than making sure it fits over the blank)

[5poundhooker]

Just ordered the 809 and a hypalon 12'' handle that I will look at to see if it looks good enough with a full grip. I will try the 17mm SK2 that I have. I may go with a ECS 17. That is a nice handle. Is it wood? Thanks again Mattman. I will post pics after I complete the build. It might be awile though. I have 2 M-1's to build first.

[Mattman]

That is a nice handle. Is it wood?

Stabilized Big Leaf Spalted Maple