Calvin Baynard, founder of Black River Tools, spent seven years promoting tourism for the Santee Cooper Lakes in the 1970’s.  During that time, he had the opportunity to work with many professional fishing guides.  He observed many home-made rod holders of various shapes and sizes.  One of those guides, Tom Thaxton, made rod holders in his garage for himself and some of his friends.  Tom began to get more rod holder requests than he had time to make.  Having no desire to manufacture rod holders full time, he showed Calvin how he made them. After leaving the tourism industry he began making fishing rod holders full time.  He had seen, from his association with many professional guides, the need for a quality rod holder in the fishing industry.  Shortly after that, Black River Tools was incorporated and Driftmaster began establishing themselves as the tools to have if you were serious about catching fish.  Since that time, Black River Tools has continued to improve their designs as well as introduce new and exciting products that utilize proven fish catching techniques.  They are located in Manning, South Carolina near the shores of the world famous Santee Cooper lakes.  All of the products sold by Black River Tools are manufactured in the Manning facility.  They buy their raw materials within the United States.  “Competing with larger companies who import their products has its challenges; we do it with hard work and continuous innovation.  We eat, sleep, and drink this stuff.” says David Baynard, Calvin’s son and vice president of Black River Tools, Inc.  The company is family owned and operated.  Contact information: 1-803-473-4927 email:   info@blackrivertools.com           With Driftmaster, You Fight The Fish, Not The Rod Holder TM ... ... the harder a fish pulls, the tighter the rod is held. There is never any slack line ... just remove the rod from the holder by lifting the rod tip ... the hook is set instantly and automatically.                                                           Product Review:   A+ When it comes to rod holders and trolling systems, I expect quality, reliability and strength.  The Driftmaster T-250-HC with the new Gun Slinger rod holders has all that and more, at a very affordable price!  This great looking T-250-HC system makes my fishing much more enjoyable and successful for a number of reasons.  The round trolling bar allows unlimited rod angle adjustment, can be turned in any direction, and can be easily disassembled for storage in seconds.   I really like the Gun Slinger rod holders with the "V" shaped front, which allows for easier hooksets to the left or right when lifting up the rods.  The cradel on the holders have been extended for more room for your hand than the original holders for a quicker grab of your rods.  This system is very sturdy, durable and super-strong.  If you're looking for new rod holders with a lifetime guarantee or a very reliable trolling system, you won't go wrong with a Driftmaster!