Often times folks will refer to a specific rod as the most sensitive or gem of that rod line. A perfect example would be the NRX 893 casting rod being considered the most sensitive among NRX casting rods.

My question is this: Is it possible for a specific rod model in a specific line of rods to be more sensitive than another model with in the same line of rods? Using the Loomis NRX line for example, how could say the 893, 873, and 854 differ in terms of sensitivity. I am really looking for the science behind it from build standpoint.

Brainstorming this with another individual we came with:

1. Perhaps a rod that is overall lighter in weight will transmit bites easier.

2. The tip action and how inner workings of the blank were finished.

I would appreciate hearing some thoughts from folks who believe that different rod models within a series can be more sensitive than other models in the same series. I am not saying I subscribe to this theory but continue to hear of others that do.

Thanks guys/gals!

People often make comparisons and attribute perceived differences to one factor or another but the comparisons seldom take variables into consideration. With that said, a blank's performance can be maximized by keeping the weight of components down. The least number of the smallest, lightest guides suitable for the application and properly spaced has the most impact here.

The actual measureable difference in blanks would be smaller than most (all?) people could detect, given that the blanks in the line of rods is constructed of the same materials, and finished with the same components.  You are seeing peoples perceptions ranking them, as DVT mentioned. (or perhaps the model mentioned balances better with most reels)  Sure there will be some minor variance from rod to rod based on things like guide placement and fitting of cork, etc. but very few people would feel a difference in the actual vibration transmitted.  Set aside things like tip action, which is often a visual cue.  Many would argue that the light delicate tip would actually dampen the vibration making it less "sensitive".  And to confuse it all further, you have hands to consider... no two people feel the exact same things.  We joke about people having hands of stone sometimes, but some really don't have the ability to feel the lighter vibrations transmitted. 

 

** Blindfold someone and let them hold 2 rods in the same line and apply vibration to the tip (better to do it through a weighted line) and see who can actually feel the difference...  I've done this with people and it really seperates the fact from fiction.  

I would say the model rod with the most comfort is going to transmit vibration better and you will be more focused on what you feel versus trying to feel vibration while your focusing on holding a thin handle so you don't drop the rod. It sound strange but when a rod isn't comfortable and by that I mean that you don't even think about it in your hands, almost a part of your body, when you have that then you will notice more in terms of vibration but not everyone will agree which is why there are so many different brands that succeed.

Well I would also assume taper and action would have an effect beyond the materials.  G. Loomis breaks their rods into categories so a Jig/Worm rod might be built in a way to be more sensitive to bottom techniques compared to a spinnerbait rod etc. 

 

That would be the only reason I could think of. 

Appreciate the feedback everyone. I guess I should have been more specific. For the sake of discussion all crankbait or moving bait rods will be eliminated. If one was to use the Loomis BCR or JWR series rod lines for example, how could the sensitivity felt, be different among rods doesigned to fish a similar weight range of baits... say that ever popular 1/4 - 3/4 oz weight range many of their rods are rated for.

Perhaps the answer is far more difficult to pinpoint. I can certainly see how overall rod weight and comfort can play a part, but you would think that using the same series of blanks, guides, and reel seats that they would transmit vibrations the same. A 7'1 MH JWR rod vs a 7'5 JWR rod would only have differences in legnth, overall rod weight, taper, and to a degree tip speed/action. Maybe this is where the sensitivity difference lies, but again I am not a custom builder or rod design expert by any means.

Thanks for the replies and if anyone else has anything else to throw in I would very much appreciate hearing it, even if it is more scientific in nature.

Often times folks will refer to a specific rod as the most sensitive or gem of that rod line. A perfect example would be the NRX 893 casting rod being considered the most sensitive among NRX casting rods.

My question is this: Is it possible for a specific rod model in a specific line of rods to be more sensitive than another model with in the same line of rods? Using the Loomis NRX line for example, how could say the 893, 873, and 854 differ in terms of sensitivity. I am really looking for the science behind it from build standpoint.

Brainstorming this with another individual we came with:

1. Perhaps a rod that is overall lighter in weight will transmit bites easier.

2. The tip action and how inner workings of the blank were finished.

I would appreciate hearing some thoughts from folks who believe that different rod models within a series can be more sensitive than other models in the same series. I am not saying I subscribe to this theory but continue to hear of others that do.

Thanks guys/gals!

Ill respond with more detail later, but within the weight savings is mass. A rod blank that is thinner lighter and has less mass such as an nrx 822syr compared to a beefier thicker rod blank like an nrx 873 or 854 requires less energy to cause energy to move throughout.

Think of pushing a1000 pound car vs a 2000 pound. Less enerfy is required from the object exerting force to allow sufficient transfer energy to the object that the force is being exerted onto.

Another example could be a large punching rods often called broomsticks. These are not very sensitive at all compare those vs a lighter less powerful rod in the series and the sensitivity increase is obvious.

Ill respond with more detail later, but within the weight savings is mass. A rod blank that is thinner lighter and has less mass such as an nrx 822syr compared to a beefier thicker rod blank like an nrx 873 or 854 requires less energy to cause energy to move throughout.

Think of pushing a1000 pound car vs a 2000 pound. Less enerfy is required from the object exerting force to allow sufficient transfer energy to the object that the force is being exerted onto.

Another example could be a large punching rods often called broomsticks. These are not very sensitive at all compare those vs a lighter less powerful rod in the series and the sensitivity increase is obvious.

You can take a rod made with inferior components and cheap composite material with voids and be thinner and lighter than a quality blank that is slightly larger and the slightly larger CAN BE,,,,,,more sensitive!! I am sorry but there is a lot more to sensitivity than smaller diameter, and lighter!!! Sorry but I have seen smaller lighter and less mass than my St, Croix 7'6"HF Flippin rod, that were not even close to being as sensitive, never thought of comparing pushing cars to the sensitivity of my St. Croix's,,,,

You can take a rod made with inferior components and cheap composite material with voids and be thinner and lighter than a quality blank that is slightly larger and the slightly larger CAN BE,,,,,,more sensitive!! I am sorry but there is a lot more to sensitivity than smaller diameter, and lighter!!! Sorry but I have seen smaller lighter and less mass than my St, Croix 7'6"HF Flippin rod, that were not even close to being as sensitive, never thought of comparing pushing cars to the sensitivity of my St. Croix's,,,,

the argument is comparing varying powers and actions within the same blank. not two different blanks. so before this gets all been there done that my st. croixs are the best ever, skeletor is in a nutshell correct. while i'm no "expert rod builder" i understand the basic science the OP is asking about and i'll let skeletor expend on his comment. 

 

OP i PM'd you a link that will probably help a little bit.

the argument is comparing varying powers and actions within the same blank. not two different blanks. so before this gets all been there done that my st. croixs are the best ever, skeletor is in a nutshell correct. while i'm no "expert rod builder" i understand the basic science the OP is asking about and i'll let skeletor expend on his comment. 

 

OP i PM'd you a link that will probably help a little bit.

that would be  a fact!! regardless of brand.