Build with American Tackle G2 Carbon Smooth Butt

For custom builders who have been at this for a little while, you have heard of American Tackle. It is a brand synonymous with quality and innovation. From blanks to components, their complete lineup allows builders to produce the finest custom rods on the water.

If you are a new builder or not familiar with American Tackle products, you need to get with the program.

In the last few years American Tackle has introduced an innovative handle system that has revolutionized the way we build custom rods. The G2 Carbon Handles provide light weight, sensitivity, and extreme durability combined with; aluminum trim, customizable end caps, and pre-installed G2 arbors to provide the world’s only complete carbon fiber handle system. With different carbon patters, colors, and shapes, builders can have any style, any length, and their choice of spinning or casting.

Now, American Tackle has added a Saltwater Smooth Butt option to the G2 Carbon Handle System. Included in the lineup is 11” and 14” options that feature a 1” inner diameter to accommodate an infinite amount of rod blanks. Plus, the slimmer profile of the 1.1” outside diameter allows this smooth butt to be utilized not only for trolling applications but also in spinning and casting rods.

Let’s build with the G2 Carbon Smooth Butt.

I am going to start with a nearshore build since it really fits into the saltwater lineup, but I'll walk you through the versatility throughout the blog.

I love light tackle live-baiting for mahi and sailfish. It can be super exciting, and you have the chance at a vast number of species. Here in Florida when we are targeting Sails, we also run into Cobia, False Albies, Kingfish, Mahi..etc. We catch them all the same way, with live bait while bump trolling or kite fishing.

The rod builds are typically on blanks of a 15-30lb rating and a high speed, lever-drag reel loaded with 20lb monofilament. My blank of choice is the SW70M-MHX. The overall builds are durable but need to be light weight as you handle the rod often as when you get a strike, you “feed” the fish and then fight him standing up.

With multiple length options and specific trim pieces to fit the G2 Carbon Smooth Butt, it allows you to match the handle section up to your favorite saltwater seats and any rubber saltwater gimbal you choose.

My pick is the Posi-Lock all aluminum reel seat from American Tackle. The Posi-Lock Aluminum Reel Seat features a unique channeled design ensuring your reel is securely locked into the seat. Tightening this seat is a breeze with the two knurled aluminum locking nuts featuring our exclusive dual black electrolysis ring guard in between. For a seamless match, use the Trim Ring for G2 Saltwater Carbon Handle System on both the top and bottom of the grip to transition from the handle to either the reel seat or gimbal butt.

So before I run off with another example of a cool carbon handle build, let's talk quick about how easy this is to install. With an inside diameter of 1 inch, you have an infinite amount of rod blanks at your disposable. Plus, the outside diameter is 1.1 inches so there is no unnecessary bulk or weight to take away from your rod build. 

If you have watched any episodes of Mud Hole Live or read previous blogs, you know I am a fan of tape arbors. They are inexpensive, easy to do, and center the handle perfectly every time. Before you ask, no, we do not fill the handle with epoxy. 

Once you get your arbors placed, I recommend 3 for the 11" and 14" length handles. Now you are ready to get the ProPaste mixed up. Yes, there are a number of different epoxies people use in rod building but when gluing reel seats and handles over arbors, you want to use a paste style epoxy like ProPaste. It stays right where you put it and will not run or sag - which can result in a poor bond. 

As I mentioned above, we are not filling the gaps in between the arbors completely with epoxy. The arbors are simply there to center the handle on the rod blank, so we add epoxy in front of and behind each arbor. I typically add a little more to the side of the arbor where you are sliding the grip from so it pushes the glue against the arbor (and doesn't drag it away from the arbor). Also, take care when adding epoxy to ensure there are no large air pockets between the blank and the arbor. 

Casting Rod Configuration 

G2 Carbon Handle Lineup

Have a look through the entire line of the American Tackle G2 Carbon Handle System, there really is something for every build. From ultra lightweight split grips, to adjustable 2-pc grips and even their Shiroi Series of components.