I have been making my own control rods for years..the best system out there is a small company called RODCHUCK.COM.......they will sell you the dies needed to make both 4-40 threaded rods and 2-56....you use bare werlding sticks..its a excellent means for making control rods for larger planes and well as conventional glow..

recently I did try another product as weight was a major consideration (3D)..awesome rods from central hobbies...the carbon fiber material is as strong as steel and the rod ends are made from titanium and you just instal with J weld epoxy..nothing better for the price.all the f3a pattern guys rely on them.

of course the best connectors are ball link connectors from dubro..

If you buy the rodchuck system I guarantee you'll likely make all your own rods and never go to a hobby shop for 4-400 steel rods again.never!