I am wanting to get a rod that can handle some 1.5oz tungsten for some punching, so I would like it to be fairly sensitive, but it would also really be handy if it could throw some A-rigs, and frogs would also be nice since ill already be running 65lb braid, but I read most people don't recommend a 7'6" punching rod for frogs.

 

I would like to keep the rod 7'6" or shorter and the absolute max I could spend would be $180.

 

I was thinking originally a savvy 766 would fit the bill but I read some people complain about the savvys lack sensitivity.  Also I seen that the Kistler carbon steel has a 7'6" rod rated to 2oz with a mod-fast action and for around $100 would be nice, but I wasn't sure how the sensitivity and balance would compare to the savvy.  I have a buddy who has a Phenix recon 7'6" rated up to 2.5oz which would be nice but is really pushing the price limit and I don't know how it compares.

 

So if anybody has any advice that would be great, I am also open to other options.  A good warranty would also be nice.

get the bps extreme rod for 100 buck you get im9, most rods today dont even have that. its top notch quality 7'6 med hvy perfect for what you need

For a sub $200 rod I think the Savvy's have excellent sensitivity. The 766 would certainly fit the bill for what you're looking for. I like 7'9 and 8ft rods for frogging and punching, but I definitely use a 766 quite a bit for frogging as well.

get the bps extreme rod for 100 buck you get im9, most rods today dont even have that. its top notch quality 7'6 med hvy perfect for what you need

IM9 is a subjective label and means nothing regarding the quality of a rod. That is not to say the BPS rod is bad, just don't hang your hat that IM rating.

A lot of punching rods are broomsticks where as you want a rod with some tip for casting frogs. A heavy "frog" or "swimbait" rod might be able to do double duty for some punching.

You can get a Powell endurance 775 for $130 at thefishranger.com. You will not find a nicer rod for that price!

Ok thanks for the other options, what action would you consider ideal for punching?  I see rods labeled mod-fast through extra fast

 

Also how about duckett rods? I see they usually have good reviews, but I have always shyed away just from the fact that there are no actions or ratings listed that I can find.

 

Anybody have experience with the micro magic 7'6 XH?

Kistler KLX Grass Punching - Stump Grinder.

 

I have a seven footer, running 65 pound braid, and use it the exact duties you describe.  This rod  even does  a good job of tossing 1/2 oz buzzbaits and spinnerbaits even though this is not its intended purpose.  It is available in 7'0", 7'3", and 7'6" and can be purchased for about $145 with a discount code.  Buy one of these and you will not be disappointed.

Kistler KLX Grass Punching - Stump Grinder.

 

I have a seven footer, running 65 pound braid, and use it the exact duties you describe.  This rod  even does  a good job of tossing 1/2 oz buzzbaits and spinnerbaits even though this is not its intended purpose.  It is available in 7'0", 7'3", and 7'6" and can be purchased for about $145 with a discount code.  Buy one of these and you will not be disappointed.

I will have a klx next year! I've heard nothing but good things about those rods.

IM9 is a subjective label and means nothing regarding the quality of a rod. That is not to say the BPS rod is bad, just don't hang your hat that IM rating.

A lot of punching rods are broomsticks where as you want a rod with some tip for casting frogs. A heavy "frog" or "swimbait" rod might be able to do double duty for some punching.

really? are you sure about that? i even contacted st croix rods and they told me themselves that the (IM9) means how the rod is built and the higher the number the lighter and stronger the blank of the rod is.

Take a look at the st. Croix rage rods. They have a 7' 4"h f that will handle 1.5 oz lures.

really? are you sure about that? i even contacted st croix rods and they told me themselves that the (IM9) means how the rod is built and the higher the number the lighter and stronger the blank of the rod is.

That's the intent but there is no definition or standard as to what constitutes any particular IM number. It's just marketing.

That's the intent but there is no definition or standard as to what constitutes any particular IM number. It's just marketing.

i just learn something thats probably gonna save me a couple of dollars thanks

Take Powell rods for example. No IM rating at all. Berkley lightning rod shock. IM7. Like DVT said there is no set standard. Just like power ratings. Falcons heavy is a med/hvy to most other companies.