Has anyone had experience with Loomis GL3 blanks? I was thinking about picking up one of their two piece 5 weights. I'm looking for a good deal on a fast action blank.

I haven't paid attention lately are GL3's still matte black?
If so I used a 920 Gudebrod medium gray thread to wrap 2 rods (one was a IMX) a few years ago. Kinda scary till ya get the finish on (no CP) but the thread turns a really dark gray with just a hint of blue in the sun light...gorgous.
I would cast one before I put the time and money into building one. I think GL3 9' for a 5 are considered fast....never cast one myself.
I did a 8' 3 wt GL3 and I don't think it is a fast rod...but a good caster. I put n/s Struble U20 reel seat on it with a dandy short rev 1/2 grip. I did as good of a job on it as I am capable of doing....I'm really proud of that one.

I built a GL3 9' 4weight rod last winter and fished it alot this last summer. It is a great rod and I really like it. It is a medium action so if you are looking for a fast action try the Loomis IMX blanks. I am building a GL3 9-7 this winter. I would go down to a fly shop and cast one before you build one and that will tell you if it is a rod you would like.