I would like to purchase a new Champion spinning rod. I enjoy throwing light cranks on spinning gear. I have been looking at the 702 Med. Lt.(1/8 oz. to 1/2 oz) and the 703 Med (3/16 oz. to 5/8 oz.) The MAX this rod will need to throw is 1/2 oz. in fairly open water, but needs to throw 1/4 oz.  well with pretty good distance.

 

Would kind of prefer the 702 for some reason, but does the 702 really have the" backbone" for 1/2 oz? Which of these two rods would you recommend? I believe they are both fast action and could live with either one. 

Forgot to mention this rod will be paired with a Stradic FJ and 15lb. braid with 10 lb. floro leader

I would be intereste in the answer to this as well, I am also looking for something similar. Wish someone would shed some light, considering I can't get my hands on these locally anywhere...

I throw #5 shad raps on my 702 champion.  They are only 3/16oz and I get plenty of distance with it.  It is a great rod and IMO its more of a medium than a medium light.  Night fishing in the summer, I throw 3/8oz hair jigs on it, with a trailer its pushing 1/2oz and it does not feel overpowered. 

I would like to purchase a new Champion spinning rod. I enjoy throwing light cranks on spinning gear. I have been looking at the 702 Med. Lt.(1/8 oz. to 1/2 oz) and the 703 Med (3/16 oz. to 5/8 oz.) The MAX this rod will need to throw is 1/2 oz. in fairly open water, but needs to throw 1/4 oz.  well with pretty good distance.

 

Would kind of prefer the 702 for some reason, but does the 702 really have the" backbone" for 1/2 oz? Which of these two rods would you recommend? I believe they are both fast action and could live with either one. 

702 would be my choice.  The 703 is a great deal more powerful and honestly I fear would be too much on the 1/4 oz baits.  702 will be a great rod for things like cranks.