Thomas & Thomas - Paradigm, 8' 0" 3/2 5wt.

For your consideration is a rare early Tom Dorsey and Tom Maxwell Thomas & Thomas Paradigm bamboo fly rod. This is an 8' 3/2 5wt weighing 4.50 oz. Serial #2818. The Paradigm compound taper is Tom Dorsey's favorite taper he designed. And the most difficult to consistently produce. I'm a Paradigm fan and this is the only 3 piece 8' 0" 5wt I have seen. All sections are full length and straight.

The rod consists of their indicative medium tempered cane from the 70s and 80's with transparent wraps and black tipping. Dark chestnut brown wraps at the ferrules. Glass like varnish finish. A classic well proportioned grip measures 5 1/2" in length and tapers flush with the beautifully modeled walnut spacer - a signature early era grip. The cork has developed moderate ridging. Classic cap and ring with some loss to bluing. Ferrules are 12/18. The butt and mid section are just shy of setting completely. A cleaning will resolve this. Tips and mid section ferrules set perfectly. Numbered tips with a single and double dot for ease of rotation. The action is on the medium side of medium-fast flexing midway into the butt section with fine tips. If not for the swelled but, this rod would bend into the cork. Some describe it as semi parabolic. Includes the original labeled bag with dowel stiffener and original rod tube. This rare rod is in very good condition.