IM and HM ratings are one of the biggest misnomers in the fishing rod industry. I do understand that an educated consumer prefers to have monikers attached to certain aspects of performance, construction, etc. From what I have learned, is that the numbers that have been posted above are not a standard on which comparisons should be made. The numbers described, can and are, skewed by the inaccurate methods for "counting" and measuring. That is why All Star does not apply these ratings other than our IM10X Series. That series was established prior to the realization that the IM and HM ratings are pretty much created at will by other manufacturers.
The weight balance system is nice on the BPS rods. But you do have to remember that adding weight is still adding weight. The rod will be heavier by the end of the day. There are other systems you can use to balance your own non BPS rods. The Balancer is one, shrink wrap is another.
Need a drop shot rod? Take a look at the new drop shot action from All Star. I saw Skeet Reese at a show last year and he asked me to sell him any Titaniums I had in my possesion, which was unfortunately zero.
As far as spending money on a crankbait rod or a spinner bait rod....you still get what you pay for in most instances, at least to a point. Should you spend 300 dollars on a rod? I wouldnt and dont, never have nor do I think I ever will. There are rods that are just as good that cost much less, but they may weigh more, have the wrong size handle for my hand, etc. Personally, when you step up to a major quality rod manufacturer and feel the differnce when fishing with a quality product, you will see it is money well spent. (same argument for Lucky Craft) BUT if you dont have it, you dont have it. You can get away with rods that are inexpensive snd suited for all around use. I still have a few that I keep for emergencies and sentimental reasons. It just so happens that All Star makes rods in different price catagories so almost EVERYONE can have great American Rod with a lIFETIME waranty.
Enough of the commercial.
Mini
. now i have to go find a balancer for my rods. i'd put a concrete block on the end of the rod if it would would help me catch more bass! will this make my elbow quit hurting after pitching all day in the wind? if not, i'm going to have to find some of that blue stuff or learn to pitch with my left hand. i've been curious about the screw in weights as it makes some sense as to how the rod would feel in actual conditions.
