Hardy - The "Neill", 9' 3/2, 7-8wt Bamboo Rod

For sale here is a Hardy "The Neill" Palakona bamboo rod. 9' 3-piece / 2-tips, best with a 7 or 8wt line. Moderately tempered cane fitted with low-bridge guides throughout and agate stripper & tip tops, wrapped in green thread with red tipping and green intermediate wraps all the way up. Ferrules are 20/64 and 14/64, and the fit is perfect. All sections are straight & full length, and the rod weighs 6.81oz. 7" reverse half wells grip with 2 small cracks to the bottom cork ring. Hardy's patented up-locking reel seat with the proper roll stamps on the collar. The rubber butt cap is threaded and can be fitted with a replacement 4" fighting butt. Medium fast action with plenty of power reserves. It throws a modern WF8 with authority and could be fished as a two-hander. Serial number H22196 indicates a build date in 1959. "The Neill" is an uncataloged model, likely made as a private label (possibly for James S. Neill & Sons in New Brunswick?). Sold in original bag and tube with partial label.