So I looking at getting a rod specifically for flipping (not pitching) and I don't see a lot of people using 8 ft rods, mostly I see 7'6". Is there any reason for this as far as performance goes or is it personal preference maybe transporting or storage?

Seems like the extra half foot would give an extra advantage in not spooking the fish.

I had a custom made 8' Mag-Hvy action St.Croix Avid flippin stick, I sold it after about 4 months. Mainly because I just didnt like the feel of the rod, it was quite heavy, felt unbalanced, and no where near as sensitive as I expected.

There are much better new ulta-lightweight and sensitive 8' rods out there now, I just haven't the felt the need to go out and get a new one, yet...

I have the 8ft Steez rod, it's on another level as far as sensitivity and lightness go.

I don't think I could get an 8' rod in my truck  ;D.   I have a 7'6" All Star American Classic H/XF  flippin' rod.  It's not as sensitive as Redline's Steez, but mine will lift a Chevy out of the grass.  

Mine is a Loomis Flippin stick, 7'6". I love it for both pitchin & flippin, but I admit I rarely flip baits. If mine were any longer I think it would be awkward. Also a full 8' rod won't stand straight up in an average house or lay down in most pickup beds. Just some things to think about. JMHO

Ronnie

I think the best bang for the buck as far as flippin' rods goes is a Kistler Magnesium Flippin' Stick. I like my 7'6 rod.(doubles as a frog rod) If you want to through some swimbaits I would buy and 8 footer. But if you are going all flippin' I would get a 7'6.

I have 3 flippinsticks and my favorate is a saint croix that is 7'10". I know that they make a 8 footer too. I like it. however in tight overhanging cover the 7'10" can be a problem. However in storage the 7'10" is the easiest to fit in my rod locker.

I have a 7', 7'6" & 7'10"  in the 7'6" & 7'10' the blank slide into the butt of the rod for storage. The 7 footer doesn't after all is said and done the 7'10" is shorter than both others when closed.

I like the longer rod, next one I get will be a 8 footer

If you get either Denny Brauer's video or book on flipping, pitching and jigging Denny suggests a rod to use.

For me, a 7 foot or 7 feet 6 inches rod is fine and I get good results.

Never had an 8 foot rod and would think it would be hard to handle.

That is a l-o-n-g rod.