Have heard a few people say they preferred gen2 over 3 but haven't heard why, can anyone tell me ?

When the new Gen 3's were released, there was lots of problems. Not just the STX either.

From what I have read, the power and smoothness of the generation 2 made it popular. The gen 3 has focused on weight reduction at the expense of said smoothness.

Also, the generation 3 gave a lower gearbox housing which a good amount of people find uncomfortable

Gen 2 in general were better reels, built more solid, less issues, and far more comfortable in hand for most. The Gen 2 STX and Premiers are AWESOME and it's a shame they don't still make em. In fact, I decided to sell my few Gen 2 Premiers and reels because I couldn't get more (I like having ALL the same reels on deck). 

Gen 2s were absolute tanks. Gen 3s are just a headache

I prefer the gen 3 for palming.

I prefer the gen 3 for palming.

I also like how the gen 3 palms. I also found the smoothness to be about the same for both generations of the stx.

Is this a gen 1 or 2? I beleive its a first generation...

Gen 1.  I believe Gen 2 has gold accents.

Gen 1.  I believe Gen 2 has gold accents.

I beleive its a first gen also, did the gen 2's have the bent in handle and drag?? I love! That reel, wish i had 5 more..kinda big and a l heavy but i lime it..

That is a generation 1sx...the second generation sx had red accent..

The stx had a straight handle and drag star for both generation 1 and generation 2.

That is a generation 1sx...the second generation sx had red accent..

The stx had a straight handle and drag star for both generation 1 and generation 2.

Did the 2nd gens have a bent handle?

Did the 2nd gens have a bent handle?

Yup

No, it was a straight handle design

Cool man thanks for the info...i beleive the gen 1's reelfoot #'s start at 1700, the 2's 1800 but may be wrong...

No, it was a straight handle design

Gen 2 STX is what I got from you???

I've never owned an stx

I've never owned an stx

Haha. The fuego.... Got the STX from another Grant. Lol

They're all the same, along with lews, bass pro, and pflueger. Didn't you guys get that memo?