Just ordered one set up and I'm already looking to build another one. I don't use Abu Garcia often I'm a shimano and pflueger guy but I read so many good things and reviews about the stx and would like to hear from you guys who truly know the wear and tear these things go through. Is it worth the 150? Is it good at light medium or heavy baits? What are things you did or didn't like? How does it compare with the Shimano core or chroniarch?

I own one and like it a lot. I've casted belly weighted paddle tails with weights as low as 3/16 oz. It casts those quite well.

They should fish very similar to your Pfluegers

I've got STXs from Generations 1, 2 and 3.  Granted I haven't had the chance to throw the G3 much yet, but I really like these reels.  For me performance has been very good, with the only downside being how easily they get scratched up.

 

I've got no issues throwing 1/4 oz lures and up.

It's a good reel for sure.  I have a STX gen 3.  It's still in good shape over 3 years later.  Held up good for the first year and a half in saltwater too.   I don't have any complaints with it.   At it's price point, I like the Lews TP better....but that's not what you asked.  Based off it's own merit...the STX is a great reel.  

Just ordered one set up and I'm already looking to build another one. I don't use Abu Garcia often I'm a shimano and pflueger guy but I read so many good things and reviews about the stx and would like to hear from you guys who truly know the wear and tear these things go through. Is it worth the 150? Is it good at light medium or heavy baits? What are things you did or didn't like? How does it compare with the Shimano core or chroniarch?

 

Stick with shimano, I like my gen 3 stx but Im not in love with it. Too many issues with mine that I had to correct. I prefer my lews reels over my abus except the gen 2 revos I own.