Delrin vs Ebonite

[Wayno1]

Delrin Acetate seems to be the most commonly used material for vom Hofe style side plates, however I noticed the top of the line reels, such as made by janciuras use Ebonite. Other than Delrin being much easier to get in small quantities, I've been wondering what would make Ebonite that much superior for use. I know Ebonite is an extremely dense rubber, used in making bowling balls. Delrin, of course is, plastic but is also quite tough. Any obvious reasons for using Ebonite?

SEM in Germany sells Ebonite and say they plan on offering it soon in smaller quantities. Currently, splitting bulk orders seems to be the only way to obtain it. Any of our forum members using it?

Wayno

[eclecticguy]

Wayno1,

I contend that Delrin is mechanically superior to ebonite. It does not crack like ebonite or oxidize and discolor as ebonite does. One can argue the aesthetics of ebonite vs black Delrin.

Here is something to keep in mind, early reelsmiths were early adopters of new materials as they became available. Aluminum reels were some of the first items fabricated in aluminum. Ebonite was a new material that offered a lighter weight solution to metal. Reelsmiths also experimented with Bakelite and other materials. It is quite fitting, in my opinion, that we would be interested in using modern alloys and synthetics like Delrin.

Today, use of Ebonite is primarily for aesthetic reasons. Its rarity (and expense) allows makers like Jamciuas and others to charge a very large premium for reels using this material.

regards,
Michael