I'm looking at the kistlet klx cranking rod. My last dedicated crank rod is retired, and I'm looking for something with quality sensitivity and loads up well. If you use it or have any other suggestions please let me know. Either that or I'm going to have to be a pain in Mikes ass again.

I'm really into the Orochi XX Flat Side Special near $300. Sort of a do-everything shallow to mid depth rod.

Check out Phenix's  "X" line of composite cranking rods. I use the X 11 

 

Mike 

Depends on if you are looking for a big lure deep diving rod or general use crankbait rod.

General use Dobyns 765CB, big deep divers Cashion 711XD.

Tom

I love my KLX, MH/MF crank rod!

Dobyns 705cb glass rods are good for a wide variety of treble hook baits like general cranking. For $300 or less you have pretty much endless options. Pick a brand and build style that you like and call the manufacturer directly to get their take on what would be best. 

St. Croix Avid X 7'MM $200.00

Take a look at the new St Croix glass cranking sticks just released this last week. 

5 hours ago, Mike L said:

Check out Phenix's  "X" line of composite cranking rods. I use the X 11 

 

Mike 

This. I have the XG3 that I throw 15ft and under on and it's great. 

About 70% of my rods are Phenix now and I would never change them. 

I don't see spending that much for a cranking rod but thats just my opinion but since I use a cranking rod about 50 % of the time and do well I think my opinion is a pretty good one.

 

I have heard nothing but good reviews about the dobyns champion glass crank bait rods.

I have 3 Kistker (7'11")  KLX for 6XDs up to 10XDs. Very sensitive, load up good, and can handle big fish. I also use the Kistler Argon glass/graphite cranking rods. Those are less money. They handle up to 6XDs.

And, Kistler has new glass/graphite KLX  

 

I really like the Dobyns new Sierra line, I have had several in my hand, and of course the Champion XPs, but do not wiff on the Irods. For small to mid size cranks the Irod Genesis II 703CC Gabes Rip Rap Special is a terrific rod ( I have fished one for the entire season last year0 and for big cranks look at the Fred's Crank Launcher and Fred's Crank Launcher JR. These Irods go for $150  The Dobys Sierras go for $130 and $230 for the Champion Xps.