17: Handle shape, grip, and balance on Platinum rods

In order to be able to actually utilise the performance of a rod and the power that it can provide, you need to actually be able to compress it, and whilst technique and the ease with which you can wind it up for a cast and transfer energy to your rig plays a big part, actually being comfortable when holding it is a factor as well.

You need a rod handle that you can grip securely

If you can’t confidently grip the rod handle when trying to cast a long way and have even the slightest worry that it could slip out of your hands, or it doesn’t feel totally comfortable, then your mind will at least in part be aware of that, and you won’t put all your strength into the cast and will tend to hold back a bit.

So it was important that as well as getting the rod blank just right, that we did the same with the handle, and this was achieved via the use of Japanese shrink grip, as well as flaring the end of the handle to allow for a really good grip on the part of the rod which you pull inwards hard when casting, and ensuring that it can’t slip through your fish at all during that process. It also serves the purpose of preventing your rod being pulled forwards through a butt grip when you get a take, due to the slightly wider diameter right at the end of the rod.

Japanese shrink wrap is great even with wet hands

The Japanese shrink wrap allows you to get a very secure grip on the rod due to its texture, even when you have wet or cold hands, or bait on them – such as when you are using the spod rods, which also feature it. This doesn’t just help when it comes to making longer casts, but also for accuracy as well at any range.

Rod handle length is important to get the most out of your Kaizen Platinum

The length of the handle has been chosen so that it is ideal for casting, whatever your build and style, allowing you to position your hands in the optimal position to generate as much power as possible. Whilst at the same time not being overly long and feeling cumbersome when you are playing a fish. For more information on that, read Playing fish on Platinum rods.

A Fuji DPS reel seat keeps your reel securely in place and won’t start to come loose, such as when you are playing a fish.

Stylish fittings enhance the looks of the Platinum rods

The rod handle is finished with a stylish stainless steel collar at the top of it, plus a stainless steel butt cap which is custom made for us in the UK by JAG, featuring an etched glasses logo, and protects the end of the rod if it comes into contact with the ground, as well as being in keeping with the understated look of the overall Platinum rod.

The Kaizen Platinum rods have a custom built look throughout, with a very subtle ‘Platinum’ logo and a low glare matt finish paint, plus black whippings throughout.

To get a feel for what these rods are like, pay a visit to your local Korda stockist, the details of which you can find via our store locator.