...first off its very ballance. I'm comparing it with one very familiar rod almost the world over: The Abu Eradicator. Name: 20250106_170149.jpg Views: 1156 Size: 110.3 KBName: 20250106_170241.jpg Views: 1147 Size: 119.3 KB
...and as you can see i think the Shimano XR has the edge when it comes to craftsmanship. They're same length and about same in diameter, but the Abu feel tip heavy due to probably shorter handle, but in hand the XR feel heavier. At MSRP it was was 50$ or so more than the Eradicator and I can see why....better finish, X-guides, and probably hook keeper...lol. At $159 it is and will be a steal!!! Hope you like the observation! Cheers!