So was about to pull the trigger on a few Phenix Recon 2 blanks, but noticed they come with a GIANT "Phenix RECON 2" decal about half way up the blank. Has anyone purchased any of these blanks before? It is just a sticker or is it superimposed on the blank. If it's not just a sticker, and actually on the blank itself, is there a way I can remove it? (I've read that citristrip will remove factory paint, maybe it will remove the decal as well?)

The new stock comes with a separate label. The 1st run of blanks did indeed have print. So unless you buy from somewhere that has really old stock, you should be fine. I bought mine from getbit last year and the label was not attached to the blank, or maybe it was a removable deal. I can't remember. 

How do you like the blank in terms of sensitivity? And comparisons to other blanks?

I've only built on the K2. They jade no markings on them. The woven butt looks kinda cool. They are light and crisp but more expensive than some equivalent options. I'm not familiar wit the recons but would be afraid to try one based on my experience with other models. 

You're not the first one that has mentioned something along the lines of not liking Phenix blanks, what's wrong with them?

The gen 1 blanks were prone to breakage. The gen 2 seem to be fine. I haven't read any comments or reviews since the 2nd version was released regarding breakage. The sensitivity these blanks offer is well worth the price imo. Of course sensitivity is subjective and a lot of that will depend on how you build it. Compared to other blanks in that price range I think it's a really good value. I would rate them just above average in terms of sensitivity. I liked the 1st generation non sanded blanks better, but they also broke a lot. Keep in mind they fish lighter than advertised, and are more of a moderate fast with a fairly deep flex. 

10 hours ago, JeziHogg said:

You're not the first one that has mentioned something along the lines of not liking Phenix blanks, what's wrong with them?

Sorry misprint. I would NOT be afraid to try one based on the ones I've had. Sorry for the miscommunication. 

18 hours ago, Hogsticker said:

I liked the 1st generation non sanded blanks better, but they also broke a lot. Keep in mind they fish lighter than advertised, and are more of a moderate fast with a fairly deep flex. 

I figured as much, I've read that they fish a lot like JDM rods.

On May 1, 2016 at 8:03 PM, JeziHogg said:

I figured as much, I've read that they fish a lot like JDM rods.

What was that writer referring to ?

2 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

What was that writer referring to ?

The Recon 2 blanks are all fast taper, but Hogsticker said they have more of a mod-fast taper and flex fairly deep (I'm assuming around the 4th guide?) a lot like a JDM built rod.

Yeah. Being we're in the custom Rod section, they fish similar to the likes of a popping blank. More parabolic with lighter actions compared to say a Kistler klx with the same ratings. What blank are you after, and what are you going to use it for? 

I was looking at the PHX-S723M-B for deeper drop shotting.