Ordering some new rods, never had the j shrink wrap before, what would you choose, I'm happy with ABB, pros and cons please. Tia

In reply to Post #1
I prefer abbreviated duplon but I recently saw Cork and I think it looks fab. Duplon, its soft and if it gets damaged it doesn't really matter.

Shrink wrap, looks great but if it gets damaged it can stick out, it's sharp/scratchy and isn't pleasant. I tend to use a coin or moderate amount of heat to flatten it if that happens.

In reply to Post #1
My order of preference is 1. cork 2. shrink 3. duplon.

I always favour cork handles, think they look the best, are the most practical and age the best. My only shrink rod is my spod rod. And to be fair I do like that. Duplon just reminds me of the cheap rods I had as a kid, and so I'm not a huge fan.

In reply to Post #1
J shrink picks up dirt more than a simple abbreviated rod but does look nice when its new and spangly - I always like my rods 80% J shrink from the butt so its 'naked' 100mm approx from the back of the reel seat - this way the wrap doesn't get marked / compressed by a tight butt rest . . .agree re full duplon - dirt magnet and reminds me of my cheap 80s specials

Only have full cork on my floater rods / specialist barbel rods as they are mainly in my hands / never compressed by a butt rest - don't see the point of ruining cork on carp rods over time (although cork does look and feel the nuts) as they're sitting on sticks most of the time

Edited out, off topic, apologies op

Jap shrink wrap for me, bullet proof and grips well when wet

Cork and fish slime

Duplon, oversized and a spongy feel

My old rods were shrink wrap and a few times (mainly when it was cold and wet) I nearly chucked the rod in on the cast. My new rods are duplon and although it doesn't looks as nice, I find it much grippier especially when wet.

In reply to Post #6
Duplon, oversized and a spongy feel

Hardens with age though.