ferrules on cane rods

Question
Hi Joe,Im asking a question all the way from Scotland uk.  Can you advise me on how to remove the ferrules from a split cane rod without damage as Im trying to restore one. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Robert,

The ferrules will be attached to the rod in one of two ways:

1.  With glue

2.  With glue and a metal pin

First step is to inspect the ferrules very closely for signs of a small metal pin.  The pin will be sanded or ground flush with the body of the ferrule and will be on the portion of the ferrule that does not slide together.  The pin will go all the way through the ferrule and rod and out the other side of the ferrule.  Pins were used in earlier days before we got the better glues we have today to keep the ferrule from coming off the rod section if the glue failed.

If you find a pin, you will need to use a small punch and drive it part way through the rod.  Just enough to grab it with a pliers and pull it out.  Set it aside some place safe until you need it again...if ever. These little pins disappear instantly on their own.

With the pin out, or if there is no pin, the next step is the same.

Use heat from a hair dryer or the lowest setting on a heat gun to heat the ferrule.  The application of heat will soften the glue and allow you to pull the rod section and the ferrule apart.  I use a vise with wood blocks on it to hold the ferrule while I apply heat and I pull the rod section away from the ferrule.  Works good.  Do not overheat or you will scortch the bamboo, perhaps even burn it badly.  Just enough heat to loosen the glue.  May take some time.

Installing a new ferrule is just the opposite.  Apply heated glue to the rod section and slip the ferrule over the end.  Press the ferrule against a wall, shelf or bench and apply heat sufficient to soften the glue and allow the ferrule to slide into place.

Glue sticks come with various melting points.  Arts and crafts glue is typically not of high enough melting point to work well on ferrules.  Rod building glue sticks provide a higher melting point and allow you the flexibility to change the ferrule some day should it be damaged. This is the same glue stick you would use to attach a tiptop.

Permanent glues or epoxies will also work but they make the ferrule more difficult to remove later.  Many rod builders like epoxy for ferrules, but I prefer the hot melt glue sticks.

Thanks and good luck,  Joe