What is the purpose of cork fishing rod handles?

Question

Is cork or synthetic stuff better? What is the difference in performance?

Answer 1

Cork has few advantages, firstly it does absorb moisture but only a little meaning it keeps its shape, its light which keeps the rods over all weight down, its easy for the rid builder to work with, because it can be shaped easily using a sharp blade, also as mentioned it floats which can help should you drop your rod, however the reel will be likely to still pull the rod under, also its comfortable in the hand, especially on a  fly rod where it also looks good and is traditional, quality cork should last for years and can be replaced at the end of all that, cheaper cork will eventually start to disintegrate and lose its shape, for saltwater rods i prefer synthetic as its great for the harsh ocean conditions for fresh water rods it has to be cork, i also looks great.

Answer 2

Purpose of cork be basically durability and that it floats, ya' know as in rod;). Personally, I prefer the cork over the synthetic ~ seems ta' hold

it's properties better. Performance ~ I honestly think their equivilant;)...

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Answer 3

They're lighter.

Answer 4

i think it makes them float

Answer 5

The cork handles on a fishing rod aren't there because they float..throw your best fly rod or spinning rig off a boat..watch it sink (reels are usually attached, remember?) They are there because they are resistant to rotting when wet and for comfort, not to mention they are easy to work with compared to other materials.  

Answer 6

Part of it is aesthetic.  Cork handles look nice.  But, it makes a good handle because it resists water damage, it's soft, slip resistant, and it floats.  Also, using cork handles is more environmentally friendly (cork is renewable) than synthetic handles.

Answer 7

Floating.

Answer 8

i like cork handles because they look good and there good for the environment. they also give you a good grip so you don't drop your pole in the water when you get a fish and there water proof and they float. when the other handles don't have very good grip they aren't water proof there bad on the environment and they sink.