In this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, Bill Falconer talks with Aleks Maslov of Composite Ventures, North Fork Composites, Edge Rods, and Striker Rods about one of the biggest rod building conversations in years: Air Carbon Mesh. The episode digs into what Air Carbon Mesh is, where it came from, why it has created so much interest among rod builders, and whether it represents a major shift in how custom rods may be built moving forward.

Aleks explains how Air Carbon Mesh grew out of a much longer history of carbon fiber experimentation, including Gary Loomis’ work with paper carbon scrim, hoop strength, resin systems, and lightweight blank construction. He breaks down why controlling ovaling and improving strength-to-weight performance are so important in rod blank design, and how Air Carbon Mesh eventually moved from an internal blank material to something builders could use for guide wraps.

Bill and Aleks also walk through the practical side of using Air Carbon Mesh, including why fiber orientation matters, how to cut the material, how many wraps are needed around a guide foot, and why color preserver or polycrylic is used as an activator rather than as a traditional color-preserving step. They also cover common mistakes, including using the wrong solvents, overcomplicating the process, or judging the material without following the proper application steps.

The conversation then moves into the larger debate around Air Carbon Mesh and what it means for custom rod building. Bill and Aleks discuss why some builders see it as an exciting new tool, while others worry it could take away from traditional thread work. Rather than treating it as a replacement for craftsmanship, they frame Air Carbon Mesh as another option for builders, especially those interested in faster guide work, guide repair, lightweight builds, accessibility, or new decorative possibilities.

On the industry side, Aleks explains why labor is such a major factor in rod manufacturing and why factories have been looking for better ways to attach guides for years. The episode also touches on future possibilities, including colored Air Carbon Mesh, Air Carbon blank designs, faster finish systems, and even new developments with linen blanks. Overall, this episode is a deep dive into innovation, tradition, performance, and where rod building may be headed next.

Mastering Rod Building is brought to you by Anglers Resource — your source for genuine Fuji Tackle components.

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Japan: FIRST Corporation — https://first-fuji.co.jp/ • [email protected]

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