I handled one of these at the store and liked the feel a lot. Someone mentioned that Abu tends to rate their rod power a little conservatively. Being that I am on a budget, would a 7' or 7'3" MHF be a functional pitching/flipping option?

I handled one of these at the store and liked the feel a lot. Someone mentioned that Abu tends to rate their rod power a little conservatively. Being that I am on a budget, would a 7' or 7'3" MHF be a functional pitching/flipping option?

 

Yes, the 7'3" MH-F would be good for that depending on how heavy of cover you are fishing. If you are talking 65lb braid and 1.5oz weights then no, it is too light for that but if you want to use 30lb braid and 1/2oz jigs then you'll be fine.