So I dumbassed my primary 8wt.. Section twisted out of alignment, and I gave it a twist..and heard the dreaded crack. I was able to repair it, but..
So unless I stumble across a deal on a A2x TFO I’ll probably be building myself something.
I don’t want to build on a $600+ blank though, looking more in the $100-150 range.
These are What I’ve found so far and pretty much in the order I’m considering.
1: Rod geeks Carbon 4 ( St.Croix imperial)
2: NFC (LMX)
3: Rainshadow Unity (updated RX6) Mod/fast
4: MHX Traditional
I’m also open to other blank suggestions if y’all have em.
I’m basically looking a 9’ 8wt fast action, in the $100-150 range.
The gamma beta is what you want if you’re trying to duplicate the Axiom IIx action. They are not on sale at the moment, but probably will be in a few weeks.
My dad loves his 9wt NFC GammaBeta I built. It’s a very fast action. I’ll defer to others on how it stacks up to other models. As others have said, wait until NFC has a sale. There was one that ended last night that had most standard models for $60. If it gets extended another day, I’m happy to pass along the email.
I appreciate the feedback.. But that gamma beta is $450, bit rich for my blood. I was ready to pull the trigger on the LMX at $125, but it’s out stock...
If y’all got a different line on purchasing the Gamma betas I’m all ears. My repair didn’t hold unfortunately, so I’m definitely looking to get something ASAP. Only saving grace is I do have a back up, #8 and I’ve been in poon mode so my #12 is getting all my attention as of late.
I have a 6wt and an 8wt built on the Rainshadow Unity blank. If you are looking for a fast action rod, this ain’t it. It’s advertised as a moderate/fast, but with todays lines, I’d saymore moderate than fast. But they are good looking blanks, and fit my casting style.
The only blank that stacks up is the NFC. I actually love the LMX. It is a great rod. The GB is a bit more buttery with the same power and backbone, but as you see, it is not on sale, and has not been since Black Friday.
If you are open to a one piece, the Psi is my all time favorite rod to cast. It is $85.
*** Worth mentioning the LMX is not sanded. Some people hate wrapping it. Does not bother me.
Another vote for the Northfork Composites Gamma Beta. I have 7, 8, 10, 12 weights and they are lovely if you like a fast fly blank. CeRecoil strippers, REC snakes and tip.
@fishnpreacher thanks. I did see it was a mod/fst but, I’ve built a lot of RX6 spinning blanks and they have been fantastic rods, so that is why I was considering them, but I don’t need another slower rod.
Oh boy.... Thankfully I’ve worked a deal out with another member that’ll put something in my hands a little sooner, so it takes the heat off of me if you will.
Quick… contact TFO directly … You’ll be surprised to learn that they actually have individual factory sections for many of their rod models that they’ll sell you at very reasonable cost. That broken rod might just be back in service.
All of their rods are made in Korea and they’re doing such a volume (with an outstanding warranty service) that they really do have individual sections available for most of their models.
Give 'em a try you might be surprised… I’ve used that service on more than one occasion - and can’t think of another manufacturer that offers it…
Mike
I have an 8wt RPL I can lend you until you get your blank. To Renegades point regarding the LMX blanks. I’ve built and use 5, 6, 8, 10&12 on them in both 1 and 4 piece. They’re worth $85 all day!
I appreciate it. I worked a deal another member that’ll get one back in my hand pretty quick. I’m still going to build something though, but this way I won’t be in such a pinch.
I was going to order a blank yesterday but they were all out of stock. I’ll go back through them again today.
I actually like the idea of a one piece though.
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