A set of Custom Guides $165 -- Custom Rod Blank 12 foot $ 180 -- The services of a custom Rod builder depends on what you ask For $100 to $400 A 12 foot pole with cork handle can really pinch the Pocket Quick --- As many of us Bumble around in the Boat and step on Rods we do not purchase one in our Lifetime -- Instead we Buy New Sonar. This Post is not for Bashing, Just my observance. Most of my Poles have the Black Rubber handles, But a few have Cork. I have only One Hi-Tech Xtreme Performance 12 foot Light Action Graphite Jimmy Houston Signature--- the pole is light, Balanced well and has a handle 20 1/2 inches long.. It gives The whole Fore arm to Cork handle contact for handling a BIG CRAPPIE with the lite action ---- Most of the time I keep all the Poles in a shed out of direct sunlight to protect the finish and the effects of UV on the Fishing Lines.. The HI- Tech Brand is Made in China which Brings me to why this Post ---- The Handle has a Paper thin Cork Laminate over a rubber and not a true Cork Handle at all.... The paper thin cork after several years Cracked and came apart exposing the cheap rubber beneath -- Fortunate for me I have a Wrap similar to what is on a Tennis Racket that will go on the Handle.... No matter what this is still an excellent Crappie Pole and better than lots in the shed