Has anyone handled these two rods ? Im looking to put my chronarch 51 on one of them and looking for the right choice. Im going to be primarily throwing 1/4oz-3/8oz baits. The 682 is rated 1/16-3/8oz, and the 683 is rated 1/8-1/2oz. 

 

Do you think id be overpowering the 682, my instincts are telling me to get the 683 but was interested in the 682... Any info is appreciated.

I have the 682 with a curado 50e and I love it. I use it for weightless plastics but if you are throwing baits that are 3/8oz then you might want the 683.

I have the PHX-C682L as well, with a PX Type R on it - usually spooled with 6 or 8lb line. For me it's a "niche" rod for light baits.  If you are looking for a more versatile rod, I agree that the 683 might be the better choice.

Is the 682 like a noodle or does it have any backbone at all ? Whats the maximum weight bait you would feel comfortable throwing on that rod ? Thanks

It is stiffer than my medium light bass pro crankin stick. I caught my pb on this rod which was 8.5lb.

It's not a noodle rod - it's got some backbone down the blank and it deserves its fast-action rating. Still, it's a light (perhaps almost medium-lightish...) power rod that is probably most comfortable in the middle of it's weight rating (1/16 to 3/8) meaning about 1/4 oz or so. I've tossed 3/8 ounce lipless cranks with no problem but once you get to that 3/8 weight range, I've got lots of ML or M power rods that do a better job.  Like I said, for me it's a niche rod for the <3/8 ounce spectrum.