Hi Folks,

 

I have experience with the Berkely Lightning Rods, but not the Shock version.

 

Having grown up on pistol grip rods, I tend to like shorter grips and shorter rods overall.  I seen on Bass Pro that they have a 6' Med/Hvy version of the Lightning Shock. 

 

I ran to Walmart to try the shorter grip out.  I liked it, even with it being a split grip.  It's short enough for me to maneuver the way I always have.

 

However, Walmart doesn't have the 6' version, just 6'6" and up.  For the role I want it to play, the 6' version is needed.

 

Before I buy, what can you tell me about this Shock version?  In your experience, what are the pros and cons over, say, a more expensive rod? 

 

I see the Shock has a hybrid tip, and this is one thing that attracts me.  I need the slightly slower action.  I enjoy the Cherrywood rods for this reason, and I'm thinking the Shock should be right in between the Cherrywood HD and something really stiff, like my Tourney Bass Pro rods.

 

Regards,

 

Josh

 

 

I've not used the casting Lightning rods, but I do have 2 spinning rods, one is an original (2-piece) and one is a shock (1-piece). Both are 6'6" Medium. I like the shock better, I like the split grip (just for looks), the reel seat is better, the eyes are better. I can't tell a difference in feel though, the original may be a tiny bit more sensitive. The shock is definitely worth the $10 over the original.

I've been playing with 2- Shocks I got at W-Mart for $20 each. They're 7" MH's. You are correct on the tips they are soft, not spongee, but softer than a typical 7' MH Bass rod. I've thrown about everything on them and they're a darn good all around rod, you'll have to spend a bunch more than $50 to get as nice a build quality. Rods have decent feel to them, the quality is good, and the several bass I've caught they have handled them with no problems. I'm going to use them as my Snake Head Rods. That will def. test them for durability. Brian.

I have a 7' medium spinning Shock and use it all the time. Nice rod for the price.

I also have the 7' MH casting rod. Although the tip flexes a bit, it has a nice back bone. I believe that you can order the 6' rod from Walmart and have it shipped to your store. If you end up not liking it, you can return it to the store.

I've had a spinning rod for two years now and loved it until the tip broke last Friday.  It got stepped on.  I was upset I broke it but not too bad since I knew I didn't spend a fortune on it.  I recommend it.