For sale here we have a Merrick-era R.L. Winston 8' 2/2 5wt bamboo rod with a marked weight of 3 7/8 oz. Serial no. 8178. The rod is in excellent condition. The rod was originally a one-tipper; a second one was made later by Glenn Brackett. Also, Brackett replaced the original reel seat and grip with a modern nickel silver seat as well as re-wrapping the butt section ferrule. All sections are full length and straight. 

The rod features dark straw colored cane with champagne wraps and crimson tipping at the winding check, signature wrap, ferrules, and tip-tops. The newer tip has blued guides while the original tip has bright guides. The script remains clean and bold free of defect. Ring hook keeper. Classic bakelite winding check. The full wells grip measures 6 3/8" in length with only mild soiling. Down-locking nickel silver reel seat over a fine mortised wood spacer. The Winston logo is laser engraved on the bottom of the butt cap. The rod's actual weight is 4.50 oz. with the original tip and 4.40 oz. with the second tip. The action with the original tip is medium-fast with a good deal of authority from the butt. The tip finds a good balance between strength and finesse. The second tip allows for more finesse and delicacy and is a bit quicker than the original tip. A very versatile all-around rod ready for everything from small dries to wooly buggers. 

Includes the original bag with label and tube with label 70% intact. Don't miss out on this terrific Winston that's sure to be your go-to rod.