Looking into getting a topwater rod and was wondering if the powell crankbait rods can be used as such. Also, has anyone used it or any moderate rod for pitching? I know its not ideal and certainly wouldn't be the rods primary use, but I like to keep it versatile.

Which model? I have a 684cb and it's very versatile. It will pitch a light jig or t-rig quite nicely....i use mine a lot for flukes. Not sure about topwater---buzzbaits, yes. Don't know about walking or popping baits---I don't fish those much anymore. Others may prefer a fast action.

I was looking at that exact model. I would want to throw mainly light poppers on it. But since you say you throw light t-rigs on it, its really encouraging.

The main problem you may have is casting distance if you're throwing really light poppers. It has a very fast action for a crankbait rod so it may not load up very well with a light bait. I wanted to be able to throw LuckyCraft RC 0.5 crankbaits with it but it doesn't really have enough tip to throw a bait that light with any distance. I do throw a lot of bandit 100s and RC 1.5s on it though, and it works well with baits that size. It's a great all around rod for the money.

I've never had a moderate fast rod, and i guess I'm a little worried it will feel like a wet noodle with no backbone.