Found two more rods to throw in mix. Okuma concept and lews hm85 speed stick. Are these decent and any issues with warranties. If you havnt noticed im taking my time and not compulsive buying.

I do not know about the okuma but I have a hm85. It is not the rod you are looking at i'm sure but is the 7'9" H swimbait rod. I got it on the cheap but it is actually a ridiculously sensitive rod. It is very light for its size and pretty stout. It has the weird full grip only trigger and I was not impressed originally but now I don't even notice and like it. I do not know about warranty on rods but any time I had dealings with them about a reel there was no issue. I never even fill out the little warranty cards and its no problem. I have even talked to the main service guy who names I don't remember quite a few times. I had a issue once that was not resolved and when it was taken care of he even wrote me out a hand written letter. 

Yeah hm85 speed stick was what I was looking at as well as okuma concept rod.

I would be careful of the microsguides. The microguides are a crude eye with a polished inner liner many times the tip loses its liner so the the line is riding on bare metal. Very problematic it has happened to myself. I put braid on the reel and continue to use it as the braid does not wear from riding on the bare metal.

Tight lines!

Customer service is lacking at Okuma. I emailed twice no answer finally called. They said accidental breaks you have to pay full price for a new rod unlike Dobyns or Fenwick. But if the rod does break while fishing the one im looking at has a limited lifetime warranty. Plus I pay 20 for shipping if broke while fishing.

 

I think Dobyns Champion is the way to go. Idk  I like the look of the Okuma... But Ive accidentally broke a rod before.

You're the first person I've heard say that. Okuma's CS has always been top notch for me and others. I've had to use it twice and both times I was shipped replacements at no cost and didn't have to jump through any hoops.