An observation of a new rod

Hi, all I’ve just received my latest JDM rod from Plat and decided to give an overview(not a review) as some members here were also thinking about this brand.
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First I like to say I bought it blindly based on a handful of YouTube videos without having read any members reviews and my reasons for buying it was straight forward: I needed a short rod (under 5feet), but it must be of high quality and it must be affordable and I found it in this Xesta brand In 4-10. The tag speaks volume on rod specification, though I found a discrepancy- it’s weight listed not accurate!
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According to Plat website and the scale it’s 53 grams. My observation show the rod was put together impeccably well and it’s blank and guides are as true and straight. The craftsmanship went into the build rival if not exceed rods cost more or twice it’s list of $195 would suggest, of course I only have the Tict RF and my only Made In Japan Ares Blue Porter to compare it with. Just look at the handle, it’s completely wrapped in carbon fiber guise. Too much bling? You make the call!
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I like this Black Star rod a lot! It feels feathery light in the hand and I can only imagine how much fun it’d be to catch 6 inch bluegills with and if high carbon content has indications of how tough it is, it will definitely see a few trips down to the pacific coast for some light game action at the pier. Thanks for looking! Cheers!



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Nice looking stick, when you give it a good shake, what are your impressions? Whippy, I would think not but curious, tip flexes more or less than RF? I do like the handle as well. The 6.10 still interests me.


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No..not too much bling. I eyed Xesta rods over 10 years back. Always wanted one but knew nothing about them. Big congrats!


Regards

Congratulations I like the carbon look myself got me thinking now keep us updated on how it does


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Glad I could provide a glimpse gentlemen. It sure has all the look and feel of a top shelf contender, but only time on the water will I truly can give more feedback on its performance and fun factor. Hopefully soon enough!


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Originally Posted by StantheMan2567

Nice looking stick, when you give it a good shake, what are your impressions? Whippy, I would think not but curious, tip flexes more or less than RF? I do like the handle as well. The 6.10 still interests me.


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The rod is anything but whippy, StM2567. I was kind of hoping it would a little, but going in as a Ajing rod I know it’s going to be just Xesta designed it to be: FastX rod like the Tict RF is, stiff but once a fish is on all bets are off. Cheers!


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Thanks for sharing your impressions

Good looking rod

I like what you’ve showed us and I don’t think there’s too much bling. I like basic and functional but I also like some pretty with a well done fit and finish. My little rod I brought home would get a new handle if I didn’t have to strip it to fit it with a new seat. And it may happen yet but I’ll probably do a new build before I disturb this one. I’m a fan of the minimalist train of thought.

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Originally Posted by skeetbum

I like what you’ve showed us and I don’t think there’s too much bling. I like basic and functional but I also like some pretty with a well done fit and finish. My little rod I brought home would get a new handle if I didn’t have to strip it to fit it with a new seat. And it may happen yet but I’ll probably do a new build before I disturb this one. I’m a fan of the minimalist train of thought.

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Yep, give it a little time to grow on you!
Bob

Get a chance to mount the 4-10ul Xesta on what I think still, a very handsome and capable 2013 Daiwa 1003 size Certate!
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It’s strung up with 1lb Suffix (more like 1.7lb test) and ready for it to warm up enough to give it a chance to bend. Cheers!


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Looks good. Certate are great reels. I gave my 2013 2004CH to my son after my late nephew willed me his 2016 2004CH. I fish with it every now and then. Disappointed that Daiwa quit making the one and two thousand series.


Regards

That’s a sweet looking combo, LVF. Looking forward to the fishing report!
Bob

Thanks, LVSP for your observation. I just ordered the 6'10" for some white bass and occasional walleyes.

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Originally Posted by Crappie Pro Wannabe

Thanks, LVSP for your observation. I just ordered the 6'10" for some white bass and occasional walleyes.

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That is the rod I am leaning towards, probably out of stock now [emoji16] Should be a good rod to stick some fish and sore some lips.


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Originally Posted by Crappie Pro Wannabe

Thanks, LVSP for your observation. I just ordered the 6'10" for some white bass and occasional walleyes.

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Congrats on the rod! As i've learned beside brand different from other more popular JDM names, it has all the bells and whistles (titanium guides, SIC rings, 99% plus graphite, impecable build quality....the list go on for a sub 200-coins rod. Only reason its not 100 more probaby not a MADE IN JAPAN rod. Cheers!

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Originally Posted by StantheMan2567

That is the rod I am leaning towards, probably out of stock now [emoji16] Should be a good rod to stick some fish and sore some lips.


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StM2567, it's ok to be on the fence or choose to wait if you DON"T need another rod just yet, I was waiting for a long time (6 months) upon reading the Tict RF numerous praises. The downside of waiting though is that once out i'm afraid manufacture will only bring out more expensive or put it this way, less affordable models instead. As we speak Olympic has a new Corto rod in the pipeline that MSRP at 120K yen....yikes! I think SOMEONE is monitoring our little JDM rod discussions...lol!