I was looking to purchase a Fenwick elite tech bass 7'medium casting rod and notice the lure weight recommendation is 3/8 to 5/8 and the medium heavy is 1/4 to 3/4.  Would there be a reason the medium heavy rod would have a lower recommended weight?  I want this for throwing light top water, buzzbaits and 1/4 oz lipless cranks.  

I know I'm probably overthinking it but just curios as I'm trying to pay attention to this stuff now that I'm buying nicer stuff.

 

 

 

 

Were they both the same action? (Fast, moderate, etc)

Both rods are listed as having a Fast action.  I have a feeling the Medium is really an Extra Fast action.  That is the rating as my 6'9" M-XF Elite Tech Smallmouth casting rod.

Yes both are fast action 

For your application go for the medium.  You'll be able to cast lighter lures farther and have more fun when you hookup...

A beefier butt would account for the higher power rating and may be matched with a little more tip allowing for the slightly lower end on the lure weight range. Keep in mind ratings are all subjective. Listed lure weights may or may not cast well. 

Thanks for the input... I went ahead and ordered the 7' medium fast 3/8-5/8oz.  From what I gather, the 3/8 minimum lure recommendation instead of the usual 1/4 would be due to the tip being more of an extra fast than fast?  The 6'6" medium action fast tip also has the 3/8 to 5/8 rating.  

Would you think throwing a Small squarebill 1/4oz or popper would be ok with this rod? Thanks again.