Re: New rod for carp.

[Davyr]

Chapmans only do blanks, they no longer build complete rods. The 500 is a 1lb tc "Avon"-type rod with detachable handle and the 550 is essentially a beefed-up version of the same rod with a 1lb 8oz tc like the classic MK IV design.

Ask the Sweetcorn Kid how a 550 handles big carp!

It's certainly not the case that all cane is good, and unless you've got deep pockets, you might do better to keep a look-out on eBay for either a Chapman 550 (about £100) or one of the MK IV clones that most tackle companies of the '50s and 60's produced (i.e. other than B James, which generally command higher prices for decent examples).

[RyanBurns]

The 550 is not a stepped up 500, the 500 is a straight taper blank, whereas the 550 carp is a compound taper. Im sure chap[mans will make a 11ft version if you ask. I do an 11ft carp and also an avon.
Hope this helps
ryan

[Davyr]

Thank you - my mistake!

So are you saying that Chapmans do still make complete rods, then? :think:

[Beresford]

Just of interest Augutters do one at a decent price? I be told all sort of things good and bad about them? Surely all cane is good no?

Thanks all.

No, not all cane is good. Some of it is dreadful, some sublime and lots somewhere in the middle.

[RyanBurns]

Thank you - my mistake!

So are you saying that Chapmans do still make complete rods, then? :think:

No i didnt mean that, as far as i know they just make blanks, and will reccomend someone to finish them if that is what is required. In there heyday they used to use the unit next door for finishing rods, but no longer do so and rent the unit to an engineering firm..
Im sure they would make an 11ft blank though!

[Greentura]

Chapmans will make anything you want within reason. 11' or even 12' two pieces can be made, I prefer a 3 piece either equal length sections or with two 60" sections and removable handle.

Norman Agutters are just up the road from me and make a rod called 'the flying fox' essentially a beefed up longer Mk4. Ive had a few tip sections from Brian Norman and they've all been of A1 quality with good action but Chapmans have more blanks and thd history to back them up. My view is to get the best blanks you can afford and find a good rod builder if you don't want to do it yourself.

[WildCarpFisher.]

Apart from Nigel does anyone else use the 3 piece 550 Chapman carp rod?

[Olly]

I do and it is very enjoyable to play a fish - but not big fish for me! Low doubles OK - but not bigger & not barbel. Perhaps I am just very careful with cane rods!

A 550 just sold on the bay for £ 115 ex P & P.

[MGs]

Agutters are now selling an 11' Specialist carp rod with 1 3/4lb test curve. £335.40 although their prices are usually exclusive of VAT and delivery.

Not sure what the budget is, for that sort of money you would probably be better off getting one made to your requirements

[OldFellah]

Apart from Nigel does anyone else use the 3 piece 550 Chapman carp rod?

Just noticed this post so thought I would add a little information. I have a 550 and over here in France I have landed a great many big carp with it. It would not be advisable to use it for big fish in a water with lots of snags but for open water fishing it can handle good sized fish with ease. My best session with my 550 was last summer when I landed mirrors of 46lb and 48lb in a very interesting afternoons fishing. In fairness the rod will bend far more than your average carbon rod with the action continuing through the handle so if you are used to using carbon it can be quite startling to feel the handle bending ! A great rod in my opinion