I see alot of rods that list the power rating but dont list the action for the rod. This is also the case on a few used rods I have. Is there a way to figure out what the action is on these rods? Maybe by putting a certain weight lure on and measuring how much the tip bends?

Fast Action: Rod loads in the upper 25-30% of the blank

Moderate Action: Blank loads near the middle

Slow Action: Parabolic bend throughout the blank

http://www.zeiners.com/stcroixrods/rodactionpower.html

8-)

Ha Ha RW first time I have seen my favorite tackle shop (Zeiners Bass Shop) linked here I will let Jim know.

90% of the rods found in rod racks are indeed fast to extra fast tip actions. I had posted this image in your sticky above...

Pretty cool...

I know you posted this illustration before, but I didn't know you were the artist!

8-)

To view a rods action (what I do in the store), is to swing the rod down and hit it against the palm of your hand about where the blank is labeled.  Watch the tip area as you do this repeatedly;  the rods action is clearly seen.  Even if two rods are both labeled fast, by doing this you can see which one is faster.  

The really most accurate way of characterizing a rod is with the "common cents" method.  It takes a bit of doing, but once you get set up you can do any rod, (fly/cast/spin/surf) and as you gain experience, you will be able to better predict whether a rod will work or not for what you want it to do based on the ratings you derive from this method.  You can even check out new rods without damaging or soiling them, and take them back if they are not what you are wanting.

Go to http://www.rodbuilding.org/list.php?2 and look to the left side of the page for the links to the Common Cents info and data.