just seen a shop taking pre orderers for the new korda rods, I enquired on price and the reply was £385 per rod....holy *****, thats top end custom built prices
In reply to Post #1
Starting prices of £375, the 13ft 4lb are £480!!
Starting prices of £375, the 13ft 4lb are £480!!
In reply to Post #2
**** a brick, I'm no korda knocker but these are expensive for off the shelf.
**** a brick, I'm no korda knocker but these are expensive for off the shelf.
In reply to Post #2
I was told 385 for entry level and 480 for the top end
I was told 385 for entry level and 480 for the top end
If they are top end rods is that not quite cheap when you compare it to daiwa, hi s and century etc?! The guru top end coarse rods are around £500.
In reply to Post #5
I would imagine they have looked at the market and priced accordingly,the nets are rrp £249.99 and they are superb from what I have seen
I would imagine they have looked at the market and priced accordingly,the nets are rrp £249.99 and they are superb from what I have seen
Isn't that on par with all high end stuff though (needs to be at that price)
Look at metal ware prices circa 400£ for a pod or £50 for a pod
£500 for a reel or 50£ for a reel
1000£ for a bivvy or 250
In reply to Post #1
They are called the Kaizen premiums and will be out March of this year....bet it's a Diawa blank.
They are called the Kaizen premiums and will be out March of this year....bet it's a Diawa blank.
I get they're top end but surely anyone spending that much would go down the custon route and add a bit of personal touch to them.
In reply to Post #6
Any photos of the net Tony?
Any photos of the net Tony?
In reply to Post #7
Top end rods I should imagine,,,,,,
Terry Edmonds,who teaches casting has been testing the balls out of the rods at his tuitions.
4.5 ounce leads,long cast tapered line down to 12 bs..........
Top end rods I should imagine,,,,,,
Terry Edmonds,who teaches casting has been testing the balls out of the rods at his tuitions.
4.5 ounce leads,long cast tapered line down to 12 bs..........
In reply to Post #10
I have only got four pictures and I think they're off one of Korda's media pages,my mate sent them me on Whattsapp
I have only got four pictures and I think they're off one of Korda's media pages,my mate sent them me on Whattsapp
In reply to Post #11
Good casting rods dont always make good fishing rods . They will sell korda has a good following.You can pre order them now from a number of tackle shops. 50mm butt guides and 18mm tip guide would certainly not go down well with me. Not a fan of the seaguide Tdg lightweight guides either which are not expensive , fuji dps reel seat (bomb proof) been around for years and a good seat but again not expensive.
Good casting rods dont always make good fishing rods . They will sell korda has a good following.You can pre order them now from a number of tackle shops. 50mm butt guides and 18mm tip guide would certainly not go down well with me. Not a fan of the seaguide Tdg lightweight guides either which are not expensive , fuji dps reel seat (bomb proof) been around for years and a good seat but again not expensive.
In reply to Post #10
The net is called the spring bow i think ? Its an updated version of dons of edmonton glassfibre net from the 70s . One piece handle i believe
The net is called the spring bow i think ? Its an updated version of dons of edmonton glassfibre net from the 70s . One piece handle i believe
In reply to Post #12
Korda's Kaizen Platinum series of top of the range carp rods developed by the team at Korda to offer superb casting performance. Manufactured here in the UK using super high tensile high-grade Japanese carbon. Following extensive testing and research by their own in house team of consultants. The high quality blanks are outfitted with premium lightweight Seaguide TDG guides and a Fuji DPS reel seat. With every rod in the range coming with 50mm butt rings and an 18mm tip ring. They come available in 3 test curves right up to a heavy duty 4.00lb edition ideal for big fish continental work
Korda's Kaizen Platinum series of top of the range carp rods developed by the team at Korda to offer superb casting performance. Manufactured here in the UK using super high tensile high-grade Japanese carbon. Following extensive testing and research by their own in house team of consultants. The high quality blanks are outfitted with premium lightweight Seaguide TDG guides and a Fuji DPS reel seat. With every rod in the range coming with 50mm butt rings and an 18mm tip ring. They come available in 3 test curves right up to a heavy duty 4.00lb edition ideal for big fish continental work
In reply to Post #14
It does say that on the block and has a nice little korda logo on top of the block.I have already pre-ordered a couple of them
It does say that on the block and has a nice little korda logo on top of the block.I have already pre-ordered a couple of them
In reply to Post #15
Sounds awful, think I'll stick with my 2lb test curve Armalites from the 80's with a 25mm butt ring.
Sounds awful, think I'll stick with my 2lb test curve Armalites from the 80's with a 25mm butt ring.
In reply to Post #17
And the ridiculous price is more awful probably re badge infinitys why would you want to spend £400 on a fishing rod and you need two or three no thanks
And the ridiculous price is more awful probably re badge infinitys why would you want to spend £400 on a fishing rod and you need two or three no thanks
In reply to Post #17
Indeed, they will have superb casting performance, but the joy of catching a carp on a parabolic rod is known only by few, mostly older anglers, and I can say it's like feeding your soul with nectar.
Indeed, they will have superb casting performance, but the joy of catching a carp on a parabolic rod is known only by few, mostly older anglers, and I can say it's like feeding your soul with nectar.
In reply to Post #15
I have no doubt that they will sell easily but to me the combination of the description (personally I want an all round rod that I can cast well with, but needs to be enjoyable to use) but also the cost. If I were to spend £500 on a rod I would definitely go to a rod builder and get them built to my specs and get them personalised. May even get change from £500. Can not get my head around the concept of buying a £500 rod off the shelf having been mass produced in a factory. That's my view, and I know that thousands will have a very different view
I have no doubt that they will sell easily but to me the combination of the description (personally I want an all round rod that I can cast well with, but needs to be enjoyable to use) but also the cost. If I were to spend £500 on a rod I would definitely go to a rod builder and get them built to my specs and get them personalised. May even get change from £500. Can not get my head around the concept of buying a £500 rod off the shelf having been mass produced in a factory. That's my view, and I know that thousands will have a very different view
Out of interest I looked at the landing nets to see what the fuss is, the spreader block looks dreadful and difficult to use.
No I am not in the market for new rods or nets just nosey with 5 minutes to spare.
No I am not in the market for new rods or nets just nosey with 5 minutes to spare.
I dont see how they get to that pricing using the fittings they are using .
The carbon fibers must be made from unicorn pubes.. 
In reply to Post #22
they certainly don't ooze quality cosmetically thats for sure
they certainly don't ooze quality cosmetically thats for sure
In reply to Post #24
That's what I thought how long is it going to take for people to wake up its all a RIP OFF. They know people will buy them to tell people they have them till the novelty wears off and they just become just another rod sitting on the tackle shops shelf gathering dust
That's what I thought how long is it going to take for people to wake up its all a RIP OFF. They know people will buy them to tell people they have them till the novelty wears off and they just become just another rod sitting on the tackle shops shelf gathering dust
its all about the marketing and brand name ..... for many thats all that matters and its why they will probably sell well
In reply to Post #15
When and why would you want a 4lb test carp rod. Like fishing with a scaffold pole.
When and why would you want a 4lb test carp rod. Like fishing with a scaffold pole.
Daiwa use those seagate rings on there top end basia rods and there nothing special, just another bog standard ring. Im sure they will sell **** loads though. Just like everyone sucking on hamidis pole again when he released photos of his new fused leaders tonight that look like every other fused leader on the marker. Someone even commented saying it was an absolute game changer even though they have been around for years.
In reply to Post #27
And i bet you they say they are also nice to play fish on. I feel sorry for the new comers coming into the sport now as they think 3.5lb rods are what you need so they will never appreciate what a true through actioned 2.5lb rod feels like to play a fish on. They are really missing out.
And i bet you they say they are also nice to play fish on. I feel sorry for the new comers coming into the sport now as they think 3.5lb rods are what you need so they will never appreciate what a true through actioned 2.5lb rod feels like to play a fish on. They are really missing out.
In reply to Post #29
I only own a set of 2.5lb rods and use them for everything
I only own a set of 2.5lb rods and use them for everything
In reply to Post #27
More suitable for beach casting I would say. Except the tip would be too stiff to show the bites. So maybe better for growing runner beans up.
More suitable for beach casting I would say. Except the tip would be too stiff to show the bites. So maybe better for growing runner beans up.
The 4lb is just part of the range, but I do agree it would be nice if new rods were released in lower TC.
Fishing rods are just a tool to do a job. I have a pair of original Maximiser SPD 2.5s that are lovely to play fish on and fine to 80-90 yards in good conditions. They are not getting a bag 150 in a headwind, but that 4lb Korda rod no doubt will.
Some people fish a variety of waters and need different things from a rod in different circumstances. If you only want to use a nice 2.5 players rod then that's fine but you're limited in where you can fish.
I don't doubt that they will be a good blank, good blanks now cost serious dough. I don't rate the rings but that's they same for most factory rods as it's 50s or nothing.
If they were to do an online custom build option similar to the custom Basia bling thing they would do well.
Fishing rods are just a tool to do a job. I have a pair of original Maximiser SPD 2.5s that are lovely to play fish on and fine to 80-90 yards in good conditions. They are not getting a bag 150 in a headwind, but that 4lb Korda rod no doubt will.
Some people fish a variety of waters and need different things from a rod in different circumstances. If you only want to use a nice 2.5 players rod then that's fine but you're limited in where you can fish.
I don't doubt that they will be a good blank, good blanks now cost serious dough. I don't rate the rings but that's they same for most factory rods as it's 50s or nothing.
If they were to do an online custom build option similar to the custom Basia bling thing they would do well.
I'd never consider spending that sort of money on one rod likewise with the net just silly money, I usually spend circa £500/600 on three rods off the peg only ever had 3 sets of custom rods in nigh on 30 years and two sets of them were from years ago, rods are just tools of the trade to me and I dont look after them enough to be spending silly money something around 150/200 off the peg will do for me.
Blow a £150/200 pound rod up its oh well go and buy another blow a £500 pound rod up and its where's the nearest tree.
Years ago when Tim was actively running Carp World and actively fishing he and someone I know who fished with him all the time took a load of rods from various manufactures at all price points, both Tim and my mate can or should I say could cast a long way back then especially for that time with the rods of the day they both generally had Youngy rods built for their own fishing so Harrison blanks of the era, they were going to do a feature for the mag to test all the rods they had been sent to test them to destruction and rate them to see which rod came out on top which they did, the only rod that survived all the abuse was the cheapest Fox Warrior that had just been launched, they exploded butt sections, spigots, tip sections but the Warrior was the only rod that took everything they could throw at it and came back in one piece and was the cheapest.
Expensive/heavy rods are not the be all and end all, ability and well balanced kit will get you good distance, a £500 pound 13ft 4lb rod in the hands of someone not capable of its ability is just an expensive tool, a Draper spanner will do what a Snap-on spanner will do, just my thoughts.
Blow a £150/200 pound rod up its oh well go and buy another blow a £500 pound rod up and its where's the nearest tree.
Years ago when Tim was actively running Carp World and actively fishing he and someone I know who fished with him all the time took a load of rods from various manufactures at all price points, both Tim and my mate can or should I say could cast a long way back then especially for that time with the rods of the day they both generally had Youngy rods built for their own fishing so Harrison blanks of the era, they were going to do a feature for the mag to test all the rods they had been sent to test them to destruction and rate them to see which rod came out on top which they did, the only rod that survived all the abuse was the cheapest Fox Warrior that had just been launched, they exploded butt sections, spigots, tip sections but the Warrior was the only rod that took everything they could throw at it and came back in one piece and was the cheapest.
Expensive/heavy rods are not the be all and end all, ability and well balanced kit will get you good distance, a £500 pound 13ft 4lb rod in the hands of someone not capable of its ability is just an expensive tool, a Draper spanner will do what a Snap-on spanner will do, just my thoughts.
There are plenty of great blanks out there just waiting for the custom touch if you're so inclined. I wanted something a bit tarty and really fell in love with my free spirit CTX SU 13ft rods. I bought these for £200 for a pair, so didn't mind blowing £400 having them pimped up. They look the nuts with metallic red collars and windowed alps seats in a full jap wrap, full minima ringing (no ceramic inners). Put your mark on what you love. Yes they are just tools, but they also bring me a warm fuzzy feeling every time I set them up. I can also comfortably bang out 12lb Korda subline with no leader and a 4oz lead 150yds and as well as use them on a 1 acre pond. You cant take your money with you, spend it on what takes your fancy. 
In reply to Post #34
I dont think I would ever go 4 oz lead to 12lb straight through without a leader
I dont think I would ever go 4 oz lead to 12lb straight through without a leader
In reply to Post #35
Subline has an underrated breaking strain at 0.36mm and breaks shy of 18lb. I can step into the cast trying for a crack-off and cant. You will only break if you mistime it or your bail arms shut. That's also why I love these FS 13 footers and Korda subline
A perfect partnership for my technique.
Subline has an underrated breaking strain at 0.36mm and breaks shy of 18lb. I can step into the cast trying for a crack-off and cant. You will only break if you mistime it or your bail arms shut. That's also why I love these FS 13 footers and Korda subline
A perfect partnership for my technique.
In reply to Post #35
Korda subline in 12lb is 0.35mm so it's more like 15lb
Korda subline in 12lb is 0.35mm so it's more like 15lb
In reply to Post #37
https://www.tacklebox.co.uk/pdfs/line_tests_issue_13h.pdf
Korda subline brown... 0.36 as tested and unless you have used it you really wont know.
https://www.tacklebox.co.uk/pdfs/line_tests_issue_13h.pdf
Korda subline brown... 0.36 as tested and unless you have used it you really wont know.
In reply to Post #34
Agree with buy whatever you want and use whatever fittings you want.for minima and vortex guides are awfull but I understand people using them as they are very lite weight and dirt cheap which is great for the high end rod makers to squeeze every penny of profit. Saying that I doubt there is fifty quids worth of carbon in any fishing rod but that doesn't stop me buying fly rods at a grand a pop.
Agree with buy whatever you want and use whatever fittings you want.for minima and vortex guides are awfull but I understand people using them as they are very lite weight and dirt cheap which is great for the high end rod makers to squeeze every penny of profit. Saying that I doubt there is fifty quids worth of carbon in any fishing rod but that doesn't stop me buying fly rods at a grand a pop.
Yes they are pricey but in the market I'd say they're about average price wise, there are Rods off the shelf from Free Spirit that are significantly more expensive than these with arguably worse fittings and there are superb rods from ESP at significantly less with similar fittings.
These haven't even hit the shelves yet and are being slated, at least try them out or wait for user feedback before making up your mind on them.
They could be absolutely shocking for the money or could end up being the best blanks ever made, we just don't know yet.
If I had to guess though I'd bet they are very similar to the Infinity blanks that the Korda guys have been using for donkeys years.
For the record I won't be buying them as I'm more than happy with the rods I've currently got.
These haven't even hit the shelves yet and are being slated, at least try them out or wait for user feedback before making up your mind on them.
They could be absolutely shocking for the money or could end up being the best blanks ever made, we just don't know yet.
If I had to guess though I'd bet they are very similar to the Infinity blanks that the Korda guys have been using for donkeys years.
For the record I won't be buying them as I'm more than happy with the rods I've currently got.
In reply to Post #32
The maximiser SPD is what I use in 2.5, great rods. But fair point on the range. I do very little fishing over 50 yards.
The maximiser SPD is what I use in 2.5, great rods. But fair point on the range. I do very little fishing over 50 yards.
In reply to Post #40
So as long as they are all ripping us off it's ok then Top end I had a set of free spirit rods where the butt ring was out of line with reel seat another set i bought the reel seat span on the blank hadn't been fixed to rod
If people keep sticking up for these ridiculous prices £375 £480 all what will happen is the prices will keep going up there's such a thing called testing the market
to me if you want a decent rod at a fair price off the shelf the esp terry Hearn range is unbeatable
So as long as they are all ripping us off it's ok then Top end I had a set of free spirit rods where the butt ring was out of line with reel seat another set i bought the reel seat span on the blank hadn't been fixed to rod
If people keep sticking up for these ridiculous prices £375 £480 all what will happen is the prices will keep going up there's such a thing called testing the market
to me if you want a decent rod at a fair price off the shelf the esp terry Hearn range is unbeatable
In reply to Post #42
And the ESP Vertex Distance ( pre Terry Hearn) is even better 👍🙂
And the ESP Vertex Distance ( pre Terry Hearn) is even better 👍🙂
In reply to Post #43
Mate of mine has 6 Vertex rods quality rods the ESP Tectrix were half about as well I've still got 4 of them gone tatty but still do a job, the Carp Tracers were a nice rod as well I liked the olive green blank on them wish I never let them go to be honest.
Mate of mine has 6 Vertex rods quality rods the ESP Tectrix were half about as well I've still got 4 of them gone tatty but still do a job, the Carp Tracers were a nice rod as well I liked the olive green blank on them wish I never let them go to be honest.
In reply to Post #44
My mate had the tracers nice rod
My mate had the tracers nice rod
In reply to Post #42
If you don't know the cost price of the blanks how do you know that the list price is a rip off? Just because a product costs more than you want to spend doesn't mean it's a rip off. Plenty of budget gear available from the likes of Sonik.
It's all relative, £1500 on 3 rods is pocket change to some. There is obviously a market for expensive equipment, just look at the ‘how many' threads where people list £xxxx's of gear they have sitting in a garage.
If you don't know the cost price of the blanks how do you know that the list price is a rip off? Just because a product costs more than you want to spend doesn't mean it's a rip off. Plenty of budget gear available from the likes of Sonik.
It's all relative, £1500 on 3 rods is pocket change to some. There is obviously a market for expensive equipment, just look at the ‘how many' threads where people list £xxxx's of gear they have sitting in a garage.
In reply to Post #46
It is pocket change to some but I would still go the custom route,like I have with my last two sets of distance rods
It is pocket change to some but I would still go the custom route,like I have with my last two sets of distance rods
In reply to Post #47
Custom is ok if there is something specific you want and I've had custom builds in the past but the benefit of off the shelf rods means they are easily replaced should you damage one provided you buy from a manufacturer that doesn't discontinue every year or two. These people saying they bought rods that the reel seat was out of line or not secured I can only assume they bought them mail order which I would never do .
Custom is ok if there is something specific you want and I've had custom builds in the past but the benefit of off the shelf rods means they are easily replaced should you damage one provided you buy from a manufacturer that doesn't discontinue every year or two. These people saying they bought rods that the reel seat was out of line or not secured I can only assume they bought them mail order which I would never do .
In reply to Post #48
You assume wrong one set from a shop 2 hour round trip to take them back what's the quality of rod building a ring whipped on wrong and a seat not fixed to rod got to do with mail order
You assume wrong one set from a shop 2 hour round trip to take them back what's the quality of rod building a ring whipped on wrong and a seat not fixed to rod got to do with mail order
In reply to Post #48
I would never buy a freespirit rod off the shelf,they are **** and so is their customer service.They take no responsibility if there is an issue and put it down to user error,they are that bad a shop I use closed the account and send the rods back
I would never buy a freespirit rod off the shelf,they are **** and so is their customer service.They take no responsibility if there is an issue and put it down to user error,they are that bad a shop I use closed the account and send the rods back
In reply to Post #50
I know a shop who closed there account they said there where to many problems with there rods
I know a shop who closed there account they said there where to many problems with there rods
In reply to Post #49
I think he means if you bought them in person how did you not notice the faults. A decent shop always lets you look the rods over. Mail order they can send you any old tat and hope for the best.
I think he means if you bought them in person how did you not notice the faults. A decent shop always lets you look the rods over. Mail order they can send you any old tat and hope for the best.
In reply to Post #52
Any old tat thought they where top end They where all three layed on the floor and looked over them of course I was looking to see if all 3 rod rings where the same distance apart as a mate had rings at different distances
me and the assistant just didn't notice
without reel on when reel was on put on pod at lake the butt ring was not in line took it back they said been whipped on wrong and gave me another 2hour round trip
Any old tat thought they where top end They where all three layed on the floor and looked over them of course I was looking to see if all 3 rod rings where the same distance apart as a mate had rings at different distances
me and the assistant just didn't notice
without reel on when reel was on put on pod at lake the butt ring was not in line took it back they said been whipped on wrong and gave me another 2hour round trip
In reply to Post #50
I've had a few sets of Hi -S rods over the years and enjoyed using them, but what Tony says is correct. I have seen some shocking off the shelf builds where non of the rods match even with the same serial numbers on them. And good luck if you have an issue with them later on down the line, Freespirit have some of the worst customer service I have ever come across. So much so even a set of custom made ones I had built the rod builder tried putting me off having them as they are that bad to deal with if issues occur.
My advice is stick to Harrison or Century.
I've had a few sets of Hi -S rods over the years and enjoyed using them, but what Tony says is correct. I have seen some shocking off the shelf builds where non of the rods match even with the same serial numbers on them. And good luck if you have an issue with them later on down the line, Freespirit have some of the worst customer service I have ever come across. So much so even a set of custom made ones I had built the rod builder tried putting me off having them as they are that bad to deal with if issues occur.
My advice is stick to Harrison or Century.
I am in the fortunate position to own three sets of Freespirit rods, 13ft Hi-sives, 12.6ft 3.5 Hi-s and 12ft ES 2.75. Two sets were built through Johnson Ross and the 3rd set (ES) I bought off the shelf mail order from the tackle box. Whilst the JR rods were built to specification the ES pretty much stand cork handled build, I have had no issue with any set and expect to get many years service from all three sets of rods. I would suggest all rod manufacturers have some issues reported but my own findings are that FS are a higher end rod that perform well (I have owned century, Harrison and sportex rods in the past 30 years again without issue).
Michael
Michael
The only rod I've ever had a problem with (that wasn't my own doing!) was a Century SP, where I had a tip breakage after a couple of months use. Century were fantastic and not only replaced the section, but asked me to send them the butt section (postage paid) to ensure a perfect match. They were great to deal with and I'd recommend them on that basis (shame I find many of their more recent models a bit too blingy for my taste).
I've had both off the shelf and custom Harrison's, including carp and lure rods, no issues there, and they always feel really robust to me
I'm now two sessions into using my first set of ESP TH's and really like them so far. Time will tell I guess.
480 quid for Korda rods... not for me I'm afraid (or any other company new to rods) until they've got a couple of years under their belt. Korda make good stuff though, so I'm sure they'll be quality.
I've had both off the shelf and custom Harrison's, including carp and lure rods, no issues there, and they always feel really robust to me
I'm now two sessions into using my first set of ESP TH's and really like them so far. Time will tell I guess.
480 quid for Korda rods... not for me I'm afraid (or any other company new to rods) until they've got a couple of years under their belt. Korda make good stuff though, so I'm sure they'll be quality.
In reply to Post #56
Which ones you got be interested in your feedback when used a bit
Which ones you got be interested in your feedback when used a bit
In reply to Post #55
I'm tha same , bought from Johnson Ross and never had issues with them and I've owned Harrison and century and while I think Harrison have made some exceptional rods they have made same I thought were awfull.
I'm tha same , bought from Johnson Ross and never had issues with them and I've owned Harrison and century and while I think Harrison have made some exceptional rods they have made same I thought were awfull.
In reply to Post #57
The ESP's? The newer 12'9" 3.25, I'm a sucker for a flared grip!!!
The ESP's? The newer 12'9" 3.25, I'm a sucker for a flared grip!!!
In reply to Post #44
im a bit of a Drennan/ESP fanboy for my rods .... The Tectrix are my fave carp rods of all time (i have 2.75lb and 3.25lb) and were around £180ea when new .... That seemed a lot at the time but in todays market is considered middle range i guess ..... I also have MK1 Snipers that need a rebuild (nother great rod from ESP imo) .... Funnily enough I wasnt so keen on the MK1 TH 2.9lb .... Found them quite a heavy blank in comparison.
im a bit of a Drennan/ESP fanboy for my rods .... The Tectrix are my fave carp rods of all time (i have 2.75lb and 3.25lb) and were around £180ea when new .... That seemed a lot at the time but in todays market is considered middle range i guess ..... I also have MK1 Snipers that need a rebuild (nother great rod from ESP imo) .... Funnily enough I wasnt so keen on the MK1 TH 2.9lb .... Found them quite a heavy blank in comparison.
In reply to Post #60
Mine are 3.25lb all have varnish/lacquer flaking off proper old dogs they've got some old Daiwa Entohs on them, there my go anywhere dodgy set up or chuck in a mat and rove about rods, they look proper agricultural they are the roughest set of rods and reels I own but my favorite setup to use.
Mine are 3.25lb all have varnish/lacquer flaking off proper old dogs they've got some old Daiwa Entohs on them, there my go anywhere dodgy set up or chuck in a mat and rove about rods, they look proper agricultural they are the roughest set of rods and reels I own but my favorite setup to use.
In reply to Post #42
It's a rip off if the product is a load of rubbish and being sold at inflated prices yes but as I say they aren't even out yet and they've been labelled as rubbish and overpriced.
It's well known that Factory Build Free Spirit rods are absolute Pony so not sure why anyone would go down this route rather than have customs built.
Luckily there are plenty of Rods out there for everyone to make their own mind up based on their own budget and requirements.
I'm not sticking up for high prices, they are what they are and that's it, if people don't want to spend that much then that's fine don't, as is people that do and do.
I just think give them the benefit of doubt and see what the rods are actually like before making your mind up.
All this "I use 30yr old 2.25lb rods" etc etc is great but they're not suitable for ALL fishing situations, work works for one scenario won't necessarily be right for another.
It's a rip off if the product is a load of rubbish and being sold at inflated prices yes but as I say they aren't even out yet and they've been labelled as rubbish and overpriced.
It's well known that Factory Build Free Spirit rods are absolute Pony so not sure why anyone would go down this route rather than have customs built.
Luckily there are plenty of Rods out there for everyone to make their own mind up based on their own budget and requirements.
I'm not sticking up for high prices, they are what they are and that's it, if people don't want to spend that much then that's fine don't, as is people that do and do.
I just think give them the benefit of doubt and see what the rods are actually like before making your mind up.
All this "I use 30yr old 2.25lb rods" etc etc is great but they're not suitable for ALL fishing situations, work works for one scenario won't necessarily be right for another.
In reply to Post #62
Defo got folks talking though that's for sure...
Defo got folks talking though that's for sure...
In reply to Post #62
Pretty standard for this forum though isnt it. Everyone knows everything, and if they dont, their mates have said it
Pretty standard for this forum though isnt it. Everyone knows everything, and if they dont, their mates have said it
In reply to Post #63
It's a shrewd move by Korda to come in top end. The haters will kick off about the price and the fan boys will pre-order and defend them. Plenty of free publicity, they've only released a couple of images and look how this thread lit up. Don't have Facebook but no doubt much the same x10.
They will definitely release a mid/budget range in the future but a nice expensive debut gets the juices flowing on all sides and they will sell a load of them.
Fair play to them, it's business after all.
It's a shrewd move by Korda to come in top end. The haters will kick off about the price and the fan boys will pre-order and defend them. Plenty of free publicity, they've only released a couple of images and look how this thread lit up. Don't have Facebook but no doubt much the same x10.
They will definitely release a mid/budget range in the future but a nice expensive debut gets the juices flowing on all sides and they will sell a load of them.
Fair play to them, it's business after all.
In reply to Post #58
I have to agree with you.Most people on here know i build on Harrison blanks (century also occasionally) .Some of the blanks i certainly would,nt use myself .The argument about tcs will go on forever you cant use a 2.5tc rod for all scenarios but then i would,nt use 3.75 tcs on tha canal but can see situations where you would.My take on kordas rods are the fittings they use i.e the guides ,these are cheap not particularly strong and i have replaced lots of them. The price of blanks has shot up since covid and dont look like coming back down anytime soon . Harrisons have 2 new blanks/rods out which are very expensive ,both high tcs . Casting rods that i would,nt use but no doubt lots will. As stated at the end of the day buy what you want.
I have to agree with you.Most people on here know i build on Harrison blanks (century also occasionally) .Some of the blanks i certainly would,nt use myself .The argument about tcs will go on forever you cant use a 2.5tc rod for all scenarios but then i would,nt use 3.75 tcs on tha canal but can see situations where you would.My take on kordas rods are the fittings they use i.e the guides ,these are cheap not particularly strong and i have replaced lots of them. The price of blanks has shot up since covid and dont look like coming back down anytime soon . Harrisons have 2 new blanks/rods out which are very expensive ,both high tcs . Casting rods that i would,nt use but no doubt lots will. As stated at the end of the day buy what you want.
In reply to Post #65
I don't hate Korda there one of the better companies if my brother said he was selling rods at these prices I would say it's ridiculous it's not who's selling them it's just the price for me
I couldn't justify paying that and just sitting on my pod 99 per cent of the time
I don't hate Korda there one of the better companies if my brother said he was selling rods at these prices I would say it's ridiculous it's not who's selling them it's just the price for me
I couldn't justify paying that and just sitting on my pod 99 per cent of the time
In reply to Post #67
Price for me is irrelevant to a degree as if I can't afford something I wouldn't bother looking at it. I've said on another thread I broke a fly rod last September that I had owned for over thirty years and did a fair bit of research into a replacement as they are expensive and unlike my carp rods that I've changed many time over the years fly rods are far more involving to use as they are being worked far more and not left on rests and when you have something that makes casting accurately with little effort why bother changing. The korda rods I don't doubt will be superb casting tools but the choice of guides means I won't be looking at them.
Price for me is irrelevant to a degree as if I can't afford something I wouldn't bother looking at it. I've said on another thread I broke a fly rod last September that I had owned for over thirty years and did a fair bit of research into a replacement as they are expensive and unlike my carp rods that I've changed many time over the years fly rods are far more involving to use as they are being worked far more and not left on rests and when you have something that makes casting accurately with little effort why bother changing. The korda rods I don't doubt will be superb casting tools but the choice of guides means I won't be looking at them.
Just seen a photo of them and they look like £50 korum rods. Cant see them selling looking like that.
In reply to Post #52
I've bought 3 sets of FS rods off the shelf from Tackle Box and Johnson Ross, and they've all been perfect as they check them over and won't send if they're not bang on.
£375 isn't particularly expensive these days for a rod either, I paid that for my Hi S Barbel rods which are now over the £400 mark. All the top manufacturers have rods priced in that bracket, even match and feeder rods.
I've bought 3 sets of FS rods off the shelf from Tackle Box and Johnson Ross, and they've all been perfect as they check them over and won't send if they're not bang on.
£375 isn't particularly expensive these days for a rod either, I paid that for my Hi S Barbel rods which are now over the £400 mark. All the top manufacturers have rods priced in that bracket, even match and feeder rods.
In reply to Post #69
Where did u see photo
Where did u see photo
In reply to Post #71
Just type into google lots of pics
Just type into google lots of pics
In reply to Post #72
👍🏻
👍🏻
In reply to Post #73
We have come to a point where people are so stupid that they would argue and even fight you that horse s... is the best used in pva bags if Korda or any other big company would put it out... These companies dont have to worry about quality anymore... If it fails they blame it on customer and make mk2 versions... You just come with some chinese or like old or legendary name and you are golden... Marys bivvy, cassien hooks etc...
We have come to a point where people are so stupid that they would argue and even fight you that horse s... is the best used in pva bags if Korda or any other big company would put it out... These companies dont have to worry about quality anymore... If it fails they blame it on customer and make mk2 versions... You just come with some chinese or like old or legendary name and you are golden... Marys bivvy, cassien hooks etc...
In reply to Post #74
Not sure that korda fit into this catagory but ridgemonkey, avid and in a fair few cases, fox certainly do
The worry i have for these rods is that they are charging a premium that century, daiwa, harrison, free spirit etc. do without the rod building history that allows these companiesto charge what they do. Luckily, korda have a massive following so it probably wont matter
.
I'll stick to what i know and like and for rods, it wont be korda in the same vein that i wouldn't buy a fox reel for example
Not sure that korda fit into this catagory but ridgemonkey, avid and in a fair few cases, fox certainly do
The worry i have for these rods is that they are charging a premium that century, daiwa, harrison, free spirit etc. do without the rod building history that allows these companiesto charge what they do. Luckily, korda have a massive following so it probably wont matter
.
I'll stick to what i know and like and for rods, it wont be korda in the same vein that i wouldn't buy a fox reel for example
In reply to Post #75
You are aware that korda own Guru and they manufacture some high end course rods which are superb and after being associated with daiwa for so long I'm sure they know what they want from their rods.
You are aware that korda own Guru and they manufacture some high end course rods which are superb and after being associated with daiwa for so long I'm sure they know what they want from their rods.
In reply to Post #75
If i remember correctly, free spirit popped up out of nowhere, few bigger shops were involved, and top of the line rods appeared.
At least with these korda rods, they have been being used by them for at least a year before appearing on the market
If i remember correctly, free spirit popped up out of nowhere, few bigger shops were involved, and top of the line rods appeared.
At least with these korda rods, they have been being used by them for at least a year before appearing on the market
In reply to Post #77
You are right and there are always a few that will get away with it (although how fs continue to get away with their qc is beyond me). The difference is that korda are using thier brand to carry a new top end product that they have no history of making but have gone in at the pinnacle regardless
The points about testing and guru are all perfectly valid and will hopefully lead to a decent product, but just because their couse brand make good course rods, doesnt necessarily mean that their carp rods will be good
I like korda and use a fair few of their bits so i hope these are good. People will buy them regardless
You are right and there are always a few that will get away with it (although how fs continue to get away with their qc is beyond me). The difference is that korda are using thier brand to carry a new top end product that they have no history of making but have gone in at the pinnacle regardless
The points about testing and guru are all perfectly valid and will hopefully lead to a decent product, but just because their couse brand make good course rods, doesnt necessarily mean that their carp rods will be good
I like korda and use a fair few of their bits so i hope these are good. People will buy them regardless
In reply to Post #78
I heard these Korda rods aren't made by Daiwa.
I heard these Korda rods aren't made by Daiwa.
In reply to Post #79
They aren't, which is ny point really. If they were, they'd have the history and market legitimacy to charge big money
They aren't, which is ny point really. If they were, they'd have the history and market legitimacy to charge big money
Are the Guru rods made by Daiwa?
In reply to Post #81
Yes I believe so and wouldn't be surprised if the kaizen are as they say they are designed, developed and manufactured in the UK.
Yes I believe so and wouldn't be surprised if the kaizen are as they say they are designed, developed and manufactured in the UK.
In reply to Post #79
Ka'izen I believe are a Japanese tackle manufacturer.
Have Korda got the blanks from them I wonder?
Ka'izen I believe are a Japanese tackle manufacturer.
Have Korda got the blanks from them I wonder?
In reply to Post #83
According to korda they are designed and made in the UK.
Quote....
Korda's Kaizen Platinum series of top of the range carp rods developed by the team at Korda to offer superb casting performance. Manufactured here in the UK using super high tensile high-grade Japanese carbon
According to korda they are designed and made in the UK.
Quote....
Korda's Kaizen Platinum series of top of the range carp rods developed by the team at Korda to offer superb casting performance. Manufactured here in the UK using super high tensile high-grade Japanese carbon
In reply to Post #84
Sure, but importing blanks doesn't mean the rods aren't built here.
I can get imported blanks from the American company Pac-Bay, and build the rods in this country.
Sure, but importing blanks doesn't mean the rods aren't built here.
I can get imported blanks from the American company Pac-Bay, and build the rods in this country.
In reply to Post #83
Kaizen means continuous improvement in Japanese , I bet they are Diawa blanks.
Kaizen means continuous improvement in Japanese , I bet they are Diawa blanks.
In reply to Post #58
I always shop with Johnson Ross I've only ever had one problem with freespirit and that was my fault (snapped my rod 🤦♂️ ) when ever I've bought off the shelf they have been absolutely fine and I've had a few sets now from them, I do no that Johnson Ross get them out and make sure everything lines up before they actually send them out.
What I will say though that's put me off my next set is the customer service you get from free spirit is ****! In fact I'd go as far as saying the worst I've ever had, they just don't care and I'm about to order a set of new hi end 10fts I was going to go hi-s but not after that, I'm going custom aviators instead now
I always shop with Johnson Ross I've only ever had one problem with freespirit and that was my fault (snapped my rod 🤦♂️ ) when ever I've bought off the shelf they have been absolutely fine and I've had a few sets now from them, I do no that Johnson Ross get them out and make sure everything lines up before they actually send them out.
What I will say though that's put me off my next set is the customer service you get from free spirit is ****! In fact I'd go as far as saying the worst I've ever had, they just don't care and I'm about to order a set of new hi end 10fts I was going to go hi-s but not after that, I'm going custom aviators instead now
In reply to Post #87
In reply to Post #87
If you prefer the free spirit blanks why don't you just get someone like Mark Tunley to build you a set? They barely work out as more expensive from him and the build quality is on another level.
If you prefer the free spirit blanks why don't you just get someone like Mark Tunley to build you a set? They barely work out as more expensive from him and the build quality is on another level.
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