Hello
This is a interesting topic we are often asked to verify pedigrees of less seen models or different rods made by individuals.
Basically we need to remember that every rod made by any custom rod maker is made one at a time or possibly in small batches as it's common to work on one or more rods of the same configuration simultaneously.
As a custom rod maker you are contracted by the customer to build them a custom rod sometimes the customer will simply request for example a 7'6" rod built on your recommended blank or propriety blank made in the same style as the majority of the rods you build.
Other times a customer has specific requirements in some cases they already have the blank or know of a blank that they want you to build on, in other words they provide the canvas and the subject you just paint the picture in your style and sign your name.
That could be the case here because the open spiral signature wrap, the wrap design in general and the scripted vince Cummings signature all look spot on.
Another scenario that could be attributed to the difficulties of positive bank identification is the fact that often custom rod builders are given or purchase sample lots or have prototype blanks hanging around the shop, they build them up as sample rods or one off rods that are eventually sold or in some cases donated to worthy causes for example raffled off at fishing club banquets, meetings, etc.
A few years back I had a reportedly russ peak custom rod come in the shop for repair it was one of the most interesting little small stream rods I had ever seen, however other than the back story that it was a peak there was nothing that would legitimize the providence of the little rod, other than the exceptional workmanship that went into the build.
Do I believe the rod was a peak? yes! would a swear on a bible it was a peak? no!
These are the pictures of the rod when you look at the picture of the rod's 4 sections notice the different color yellow tip section that's the original tip that was made for the rod, I actually had to sacrifice a blank to make the repair, I used a wright and mcgill blank I had purchased from ricks, the tip on the top of the picture was one that I made for the rod from that blank as a second back up tip for the customer.
Take a look at this topic
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=41509 it certainly leaves us with an understanding that not all vince Cummings rods were alike.
I would say with about a 98. 9% level of confidence that your fl-170 is a Cummings rod!
One thing that does jump out at me is the reel seat however the cork has been either recently replaced or reworked that much is as very evident because the color and quality don't jive with the grip.
I hope I have been some help enjoy the rod it certainly looks to be a fisher I hope it brings countless fish to hand.
Tight lines and 98. 9% loops
Andy M