Having a custom made rod made and the guy recommended Batson blanks, what do you custom rod guys think. I wanted a Loomis or Lamiglas, but he said Loomis no longer makes them and Batson is better.

If you want a "real" Loomis blank, take a look at North Fork Composites.

Batson RX8 blanks are very highly regarded by the rod building community.

St Croix blanks are also widely available.

Batson makes a fine blank. Gary's NFC blanks are good of course but very pricy. Batson has a very robust line of blanks with something to fit just about every application. Let me know what blank is recommended and what the application will be and I'll throw in my $.02 if you want.

It is an RX-7 blank in IMB844, I speced Fuji Alconite guides. It will be primarily be used to fish Frogs in semi heavy cover. Garnet and Gold thread and custom Gold rings at butt of handle. Scalp'em!

That'll work, especially in semi-heavy cover. In the real slop I'd say step up to an 845 or 944. This will make a nice jig and t-rig rod as well. The Alconite line is probably the biggest value in guides. Sounds like you're on a good track. Good luck!

One of my 2 custom rods is made on an RX-8 blank, and it is an awesome rod, NFC, Gary Loomis' new company more than likely makes a better blank but they come at a price and while that may be true the Batson blanks are very good, much better than the SC ll from Croix.

Don't be too quick to assume that the RX8 is inferior to an NFC blank. Also The RX8 should be compared to an SCIV or SCV for apples to apples comparison w/ St Croix.

if you dont mind me askin, what does a custom rod like the one your having built go for?

if you dont mind me askin, what does a custom rod like the one your having built go for?

There are too many variables and options to get a feel for what a build would cost based on someone else's. A custom built high permance rod is much more within reach than many people seem to think. I'm happy to discuss options and quote a build with no obligation. As an example, a MH/F 7' with Fuji alconite guides and seat, single color guide wrap with trim and personalized inscription all on a quality MHX blank goes for about $225. There are options above and below this point.

ok awesome thanks dvt. ive always been interested in having a custom jig/flippin/pitchin/punchin rod built if thats at all possible lol if i wanted to get a quote would i be able to contact you via telephone or just through pm?

There are too many variables and options to get a feel for what a build would cost based on someone else's. A custom built high permance rod is much more within reach than many people seem to think. I'm happy to discuss options and quote a build with no obligation. As an example, a MH/F 7' with Fuji alconite guides and seat, single color guide wrap with trim and personalized inscription all on a quality MHX blank goes for about $225. There are options above and below this point.

Spot on! Picking it up Monday or Tuesday