Relaxing/Rounding Out Cork Handles?

[Drakestar]

Does anybody have any tricks to round out a squashed cork handle? In my infinite wisdom I slammed my trunk door on the butt section of a rod (not to worry, that rod was only a NRX ). Now the cork is squashed and not round anymore. It just cosmetic damage, but I’m not liking this one bit.

I’ve managed to squeeze things back into shape a little bit already, but I’m wondering if there are any tricks that I’m not aware of.

[Slazmo]

Face washer in hot water and steam it out (using an iron to keep warm - on the area) as best as you can.

[hoohoorjoo]

Steam it over an open boiling pot of water. This has gotten minor indentations out for me before in cork and EVA. It may soften/fluff it enough to manipulate it back into shape more so than you've already managed. Careful, though; the heat will also soften the epoxy if overdone.

[i_am_R2]

I have gotten some dents out of cork by placing a damp cloth on the affected area and then put an iron on steam setting on the cloth for a few seconds at a time and it got the dents out. Not sure if it will work in your situation but worth a try?

[mrpao]

Since it's the rod butt, you could easily replace it with another butt from one of the rod building companies. Just cut this one off. Clean the blank and epoxy another butt of your choice on it.

[Drakestar]

Thanks for the replies. Taking a road trip in 100” heat has already helped the handles, they’re noticeably less squashed. Maybe it’s just the passing time, not the warmth, but I’ll try some heat one I’m back home, as well.

[Thunderblack1984]

Just smash the other side and you will have the maroon 'G2' Loomis butt section.

[DrTrevorkian]

Just smash the other side and you will have the maroon 'G2' Loomis butt section.

Ha ha ha! That’s awesome!