hey rich, thats not a bad idea, as im a builder too , i have been doing this for about 4 years now off and on. there is a great sense of pride when you build a rod for someone or for yourself, and it helps pass time in those down times. as far as choosing the right rod blank for a custom build, i always think how im going to use this rod, what techniques-casting bobbers, casting jigs or dippin jigs, ect. for me i do alot of casting light jigs 1/16oz mostly, so i prefer a longer rod 7.5 - 10ft, the lightest blank i can find, and one with good sensitivity.