I was tempted to buy a JDM rod but instead decided to go with what has proven for me. Plus I don’t baby my equipment and wanted a warranty. I bought a used 7’ UL IMX loomis at least 15 years ago and it is still my number one rod for trout panfish crappie and white perch. That rod cost me $100. It’s listed at $325 new now. Yikes just couldn’t bring myself to spend that much for a second rod. The local store was closing out Loomis rods and I picked this one up for $175.