I wanna upgrade my cranking setup. I don't crank a ton, so I really don't wanna spend a lot on it.

 

Right now I'm looking at a Lew's Tournament MB (5.6:1) and a Lew's Custom Speed Stick Crank Rod 7'6". Now, TW lists it as a medium/mod-fast action. Other places call it a med-heavy/mod-fast. Hmm.

 

I can get this setup for $230. I was just curious what your guys' thoughts are who crank more. Good setup? Recommend something better around the same price? I'd be willing to go up to $270ish I guess. 

 

Thanks!

I have 2 set ups I use for crankbaits:  7'2" M/F SLX with 6.3:1 SLX, or 7' M/F Carbon-Lite 2.0 with Fuego CT 6.3:1

I don't know that specific rod but I can tell you that I much prefer a MH rod for deep cranking. 

 

I have this rod and it does an outstanding job with 1/2 oz / 10ft and deeper crankbaits .  That said I do not like that type of reel seat and took it out of the rotation .    

Lew's Custom Speed Stick Crank Rod 7'6" Medium Magnum

Bummer because ALF just had a used Megabass Levante Launcher the sold cheap (~$100).  I love that rod for deep cranks.  You can seriously bomb a 5XD with it!

What size crankbaits are you wanting this combo for ? You can get a BB1 5:1 off ebay for about $125 "buy it now".

I wouldn't consider the MB for a serious crankin reel.

12 hours ago, johnD. said:

What size crankbaits are you wanting this combo for ?

 

I wouldn't consider the MB for a serious crankin reel.

Probably up to an 8XD.

 

What is it you don't like about the MB? Every place I've looked/read talks highly about it for cranking.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. 

11 hours ago, NorthernBasser said:

Probably up to an 8XD.

 

What is it you don't like about the MB? Every place I've looked/read talks highly about it for cranking.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. 

I have fished both extensively. The MB got geary feeling after a while. The bb1 is still very smooth. Idk why , that's just what happened. The bb1 is a couple of inches per turn slower than the MB and holds more 12 lb mono ,makes a difference if you are long lining or strolling.

Ark Tharp Series Rocket Launcher is my go to rod for 5xd to 8xd.

9 hours ago, johnD. said:

I have fished both extensively. The MB got geary feeling after a while. The bb1 is still very smooth. Idk why , that's just what happened. The bb1 is a couple of inches per turn slower than the MB and holds more 12 lb mono ,makes a difference if you are long lining or strolling.

Ark Tharp Series Rocket Launcher is my go to rod for 5xd to 8xd.

Appreciate it!