Fly Rod bamboo riproduzione..Paul Young：Driggs River Special 7’2＂ line #4.
Reproducing a Paul H. Young “Driggs River Special” bamboo fly rod (7’2″ for a 4 line) is a fascinating project for rod makers and enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed guide to help you approach this classic:
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1. Research the Original Rod
– Paul H. Young (PHY) Legacy: Young was a master rod maker (1913–1960) known for parabolic tapers and delicate dry-fly actions. The Driggs River Special is a sought-after model, designed for small streams with a smooth, progressive flex.
– Original Specs:
– Length: 7’2″ (2-piece).
– Line Weight: 4 (some argue it casts a 3 or 4 beautifully).
– Taper: Moderate parabolic (deep flex in the mid/lower sections).
– Hardware: Often featured nickel-silver ferrules, agate stripping guides, and signature cigar-shaped grips.
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2. Source Bamboo (Tonkin Cane)
– Material: Use high-quality Tonkin cane (Arundinaria amabilis), split into 6-strip hexagonal blanks.
– Taper Plan:
– Obtain the original taper (measured in thousandths of an inch at 5″ intervals). Some sources:
– The Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook (Hoover).
– Online databases (e.g., RodDNA, HexRod).
– Young’s tapers were often “hollow-built” for lightness; replicate this if possible.
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3. Key Construction Steps
A. Splitting & Planing
– Split cured cane into 6 strips, then plane to the taper dimensions using a beveler or hand plane.
– Tip: Young’s rods often had a softer tip section for delicate presentations.
B. Gluing & Binding
– Use resorcinol glue (traditional) or modern epoxy for the blank.
– Bind with thread and heat-treat for durability.
C. Ferrules & Hardware
– Ferrules: Replicate Young’s slim, hand-fitted nickel-silver ferrules (or use modern alternatives like REC).
– Guides: Agate or hard chrome snake guides (Young used minimal guides for lightness).
– Reel Seat: Down-locking nickel silver with a walnut or cedar spacer (classic PHY style).
D. Handle & Finish
– Grip: Cigar-shaped (5–5.5″), cork rings glued and shaped.
– Wraps: Signature colors (often burgundy or olive with gold tipping).
– Varnish: Multiple hand-rubbed coats of spar varnish for a deep gloss.
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4. Modern Alternatives
– Pre-made Blanks: Companies like Bellinger or Golden Witch sell PHY-style blanks.
– Taper Adjustments: Soften the mid-section slightly for a true “parabolic” feel.
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5. Resources
– Books:
– Split and Glued by Bob Milward (bamboo rod building).
– Hollow-Building Bamboo Fly Rods by W. Cattanach.
– Forums: Bamboo Rod Forum (rodbuildingforum.com), Classic Fly Rod Forum.
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Final Notes
– Action: The Driggs River Special should load deeply with a 4 line, ideal for short, accurate casts on small streams.
– Authenticity: Study original PHY rods (e.g., at the American Museum of Fly Fishing) for wrap patterns and hardware details.
If you’re new to rod building, consider starting with a simpler taper before tackling Young’s parabolic designs. Happy crafting!
Would you like help sourcing specific tools or taper data?