So I had a question, anyone have any experience on if this can be used as a Punching rod?  The main purpose, I know it's XF, but I hear Phenix usually are softer.  If possible I'd prefer to buy this (125 from someone with tags/receipt).  If, not I am thinking about pulling the trigger on a Kistler Z-Bone LE H/Moderate Fast 7'6", which I'm sure would be ok for the technique, but if I can save 100 bucks.  Always wanted to try a Phenix rod and the thing is basically new since he never used it when he bought it last September.  Hopefully someone can comment!

I think it's generally the Recons that have the slower actions, I've heard the M1s are more true to their rating, but I don't own one. I really like the Phenix Recons I own, hopefully some M1 owners will step in, that 7'8" M1 has caught my attention too.

I have a 7'2 H/XF. I think the M1 is a true XF if you ask me. I don't have any experience punching though so I can't really say much on that issue unfortunately.

Thanks for the tip, I checked it out..it seemed it was too soft for punching.  I'll have to up a size.