Hiram Hawes Bamboo Fly Rod 9'6" 3/2 #6/7

A rare Hiram Hawes bamboo fly rod, 9'6", 3-piece, 2-tip, and built for what feels like a #6/7 line. I believe this is the F-4 model Hawes offered, this one with a fast action. This rod should be in a museum! Although the grip has some areas of hand soiling it couldn't have come from use, as there is no sign of wear to the inside of the heavy wire reverse twist guides. The silk lines of the period would have certainly left them marked if the rod had been fished. Six strip construction done in a three up node pattern. Of particular interest (at least to me) are the dark nodes which usually indicate oven tempering but in this case upon a very close inspection I believe they were heat pressed. The rod shaft retains the original enamel and the varnish is good. There are some light bag impressions here and there on the mid, but only there. The main wraps are reddish brown with edges and intermediates of lighter red. A set of eight red/brown signature wraps can be found just above the front cork check. The first guide on the butt is a large reverse twist snake. The step ferrules are polished nickel silver in the Leonard fashion and are of the pot belly style. They also come with Leonard style "top hat" nickel silver ferrule plugs. The midsection male had some corrosion issues at one time. The rod shafts are straight as though they just left the shop. The grip is 5 3/8" long and is typical Hawes, tapering to the front cork check. The all nickel silver ring and pocket cap seat are polished and stamped "HW Hawes Rod Co, Makers, Canterbury Conn". It also boasts a target on the bottom. The tips fit into a varnished bamboo tip tube with brass fittings. The tip tube, mid, and butt all fit into a tan canvas overbag and this, in turn, fits into a "floating aluminum rodcase" with "VL&A Chicago" print tag. This is the best condition Hawes that I have ever personally seen. A beauty.