This is like the 4th or 5th time with this guy. First it was the world record bass being caught in FL. Then it was spinning gear is better than casting gear, 2 or 3 times. The Quantum thread from the other day and now this. It's clear what the common denominator is.

As a Vegtable, I couldn't agree more.... Nice!

I was obviously very wrong, my picture was followed by another 1000 words   

 

Roger

My two cents.....

 

Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r

Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r

 

Sweet BasshunterJGH! Let us know how you like it and if you have any other questions we would all be glad to help!

There was a good and interesting post going here until a couple of self-centered types messed it up. Hopefully a moderator will kill it soon so the original poster can start anew.

Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r

My apologies for the mess in your thread.  I'm glad you decided on a rod, I'm sure you will be very happy with it.  Be sure to let us know how you like it.

There was a good and interesting post going here until a couple of self-centered types messed it up. Hopefully a moderator will kill it soon so the original poster can start anew.

I hear rave praise for that rod!

Good luck! & tight lines too you!

You will enjoy the Dobyns, take a look at the 734C, it is a very versatile rod in that lineup.

Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?

Some guys absolutely hate split grips.  I prefer them.  I cast with 2 hands and that butt grip makes a perfect handle for me.  It really does just boil down to personal preference though.

I'm a St. Croix Avid user, but you'll be happy with that Dobyns.

 

As far as split versus full handle; if you've used split-grip rods before, and you are not sure if you should get a split-grip rod, you will probably be perfectly happy with one... meaning, if you really didn't like a split grip, you'd know it. (I say this as someone who doesn't like them, btw) I know some are better than others based on the length of the handle and the space between the grips, but people that don't like them tend to hate them across the board.

 

If you haven't used a split-grip rod, it would be nice to chuck a few baits with one before you invest in a rod that has them. The problem is when you handle a rod at a store, you kind of wave it around in one hand. The time a split-grip bothers people is when you put both hands on the grips to really sling a bait. With a 734, I imagine you'll be making a variety of casts. I can't speak to how the different grip options might change the balance of that rod. In any case, if you are younger, it probably won't bother you, because you haven't been using the full handle for 100 years like me. Us old dudes are not always receptive to change.

Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?

I prefer full grips, but, like you said, it is personal preference.

I have a good mixture of both and enjoy fishing them all. But I guess in the end that I am a little old fashioned in this respect and prefer the full grip, especially with any technique where longer casts are a benefit.

I would go to a sporting goods store and put your hands on some full and split grips. Doesn't necessarily have to be Dobyns. Just make some pretend casting motions with a reel attached, fake hooksets, etc. Try to get a feel for what you prefer. I'm a full grip guy myself. I think they're more comfortable, and the few extra grams in the lower section of the rod improve the balance slightly.

I have both but I prefer the full grip. I said I hated a full grip until I used one. Like tywithay said, try to go to a store and handle both and see which you prefer. I still use both but if I had a choice, I would go full grip.

I like split grips, not sure why I don't like full grips.  It just feel natural to me, but it is all preference.  I think it would be wise to hold split grip rods and full grips no matter the brand and figure out which feels right for you.

Whether there is 'cork' or 'air' between my hands,

I wouldn't even know without looking down to see.

All other things equal, the Split-Grip rod is going to weigh less (no excess baggage).

Aesthetically speaking, a split-grip rod doesn't have that pool-cue look.

 

Roger

Thanks I just checked out TWs description of the 734 sounds like a very versatile rod. Do u prefer the split grip or full handle? I know it's just opinion but I don't really have a preference. Any thoughts?

Lighter reel, full grip,

Heavier reel, split group

General rule of thumb. So sayeth the vegetable who has no knowledge...

Only way to really decide is to go to a store and man-handle some full and split grips, you don't need to make a preference to set for life but it should point you in the right direction before you buy

Thanks for all the info guys. I decided on the dobyns champ. That definitely seems to b a very popular rod! Can't wait to try it w/ daiwa type r

I read this post and responded before getting to the last post, I'm sorry. 

I agree with what has been stated full and split grip are preference.  Most of the standard Champion rods are offered with the choice between the two for this reason.  My personal preference is full grip.  It hangs up on sweatshirt pockets less when switching hands and is just plain a comfort deal for me. 

Either way I think you will love the 734 if you go with it.  Have fun

No matter what rod or reel combination you should try it in a shop if you want to determine it's balance with any reel, to be sure of what you are putting together. The split handle does almost nothing to balance a rod over the full handle, I have tried this and you can in a store, just take a reel that is over 1 oz different and it wont move the balance point 1/8", it will be so little to hardly notice. The missing cork in a typical split grip approx 5" is only about 1/10 oz. and Eva foam is oh so slightly lighter as to be of no notice. if you need to add weight to any rod to balance it, most would be very surprised just how much it takes if you don't move the reel seat. But if you move the reel location 1/8" the difference is huge. Best to try it before you buy it to avoid unpleasant surprises, especially when you start paying over $200.00 to add a rod to your favorite reel to create your perfect setup!! The difference in split or full grip alone, on the same rods, means very little when you are changing a rods balance point regardless of the reel.

 

and good choice, the GL2 is a rod I would never recamend, I personally like the Avid but if you like the split grip's, you will be very happy you didn't buy the GL2. Enjoy!