Hi all, I am looking to buy some new rods. I would like them to be through action, as I don't fish at any great distance. I would like them to be either 10ft or 12ft with a test curve of between 2lb and 3lb. I'm also on a bit of a budget, so nothing at the top end will be within my reach (I mean £800 for one of the latest Daiwa rods is a tad over the top).
All recommendations welcome, and some information about the rod if you have such knowledge.
Thanks in advance
All recommendations welcome, and some information about the rod if you have such knowledge.
Thanks in advance
In reply to Post #1
12ft harrison ballista 2.75lb tc are superb players rods or try the wychwood extricator plus 10ft rod, without a doubt, my go to rods for the last year for close range fishing
12ft harrison ballista 2.75lb tc are superb players rods or try the wychwood extricator plus 10ft rod, without a doubt, my go to rods for the last year for close range fishing
In reply to Post #2
what test curve are the extricator plus rods ???
what test curve are the extricator plus rods ???
In reply to Post #1
I'm not sure if they still make them, but imo century ngs are the one. I have them in 2.75 and they are an absolute joy to play fish on. Proper bent right through
I'm not sure if they still make them, but imo century ngs are the one. I have them in 2.75 and they are an absolute joy to play fish on. Proper bent right through
If you are ok with 2nd hand rods look out for a set of the original Wychwood Maximiser SPD. I have a pair of the 12ft 2.5lb and they are very nice through action rods.
In reply to Post #1
Hello again buddy... I prefer this kind of action rod and can definitely offer some suggestions as I've been through loads of rods to find my favourites.
If you are happy to buy used, you can get quite a saving. I've bought all my free spirits used and some of them only cost me £50 or £60.
In my humble opinion, these rods might be worth putting on your shortlist:
Freespirit ES (12'-2.75lb)
Freespirit TS (11'-2.75lb - my all time favourite, rare as hell used though)
Century Armalite MK1 (I have an early 11' - 2.75lb, possibly partly nostalgia but it's definitely a favourite and definitely a through action player rod)
Harrison Chimera (12'-2.5lb)
As a wildcard, you might want to look at some of the heavier barbel rods out there... Rung a bit more for the action than the cast & can easily lob solid bags.
The rings make a big difference to the action of a rod, and if you can stretch to a rod builder you'll get exactly what you want, a custom Harrison might be quite a lot less than a new top end free spirit or basia
There's a rod builder in the forum called Jeff who I know talks fondly of Baby Ballistas... Hopefully he'll chip in.
Hello again buddy... I prefer this kind of action rod and can definitely offer some suggestions as I've been through loads of rods to find my favourites.
If you are happy to buy used, you can get quite a saving. I've bought all my free spirits used and some of them only cost me £50 or £60.
In my humble opinion, these rods might be worth putting on your shortlist:
Freespirit ES (12'-2.75lb)
Freespirit TS (11'-2.75lb - my all time favourite, rare as hell used though)
Century Armalite MK1 (I have an early 11' - 2.75lb, possibly partly nostalgia but it's definitely a favourite and definitely a through action player rod)
Harrison Chimera (12'-2.5lb)
As a wildcard, you might want to look at some of the heavier barbel rods out there... Rung a bit more for the action than the cast & can easily lob solid bags.
The rings make a big difference to the action of a rod, and if you can stretch to a rod builder you'll get exactly what you want, a custom Harrison might be quite a lot less than a new top end free spirit or basia
There's a rod builder in the forum called Jeff who I know talks fondly of Baby Ballistas... Hopefully he'll chip in.
I went down the lines of buying a set of pike rods for piking, through action, designed for casting big soft baits a long way. I used them once for piking and decided there and then that they would make excellent carp rods and they replaced my fast taper carp rods that I only had a week and used once. They are just like the rods I used in the 60's and 70's, through action dual purpose for carp and pike.
When I get a good fish on, they bend almost to the handle and if I pile the pressure on they do bend to the handle. People comment on how good the action is when I play fish. Plus I cannot recall ever getting a hook pull when a fish surges off just as your about to net it, the rod just bends and as the fish runs out of steam the rod slowly straightens and brings the fish back to the net.
Also they have traditional ringing which makes the rod nicer to handle and not feel tip heavy which you get with these 5 and 6 large ring beachcasters.
When I get a good fish on, they bend almost to the handle and if I pile the pressure on they do bend to the handle. People comment on how good the action is when I play fish. Plus I cannot recall ever getting a hook pull when a fish surges off just as your about to net it, the rod just bends and as the fish runs out of steam the rod slowly straightens and brings the fish back to the net.
Also they have traditional ringing which makes the rod nicer to handle and not feel tip heavy which you get with these 5 and 6 large ring beachcasters.
In reply to Post #1
century FBS has always been my rod of choice. don't see many out and about nowadays
century FBS has always been my rod of choice. don't see many out and about nowadays
In reply to Post #5
I picked up 2 of these in mint condition last year, have yet to use them, but will do next season as I've got a ticket lined up where its all close range stuff.
2.5 same as you, glad you rate them
I picked up 2 of these in mint condition last year, have yet to use them, but will do next season as I've got a ticket lined up where its all close range stuff.
2.5 same as you, glad you rate them
In reply to Post #3
3lb tc mate, but bend unlike poker sticks
3lb tc mate, but bend unlike poker sticks
In reply to Post #1
You didnt ask for 11ft so that rules out Harrison baby ballistas. In 12ft any ballista t.c. In 10ft ballista stalker 2.75 tc . Original maximiser spd are excellent blanks but factory built have awful fittings .
You didnt ask for 11ft so that rules out Harrison baby ballistas. In 12ft any ballista t.c. In 10ft ballista stalker 2.75 tc . Original maximiser spd are excellent blanks but factory built have awful fittings .
In reply to Post #1
If you want a really nice, through actioned "players" rod, then it has to be a ballista. They really are the nicest rods to play fish on I've ever used by an absolute mile.
If you want a really nice, through actioned "players" rod, then it has to be a ballista. They really are the nicest rods to play fish on I've ever used by an absolute mile.
If you could find some 2.75 Century NG`s they are amazing and will land any carp you will ever catch a joy to play a fish on
from small fish to my PB of 68lb
from small fish to my PB of 68lb
In reply to Post #12
May be of interest, eBay currently has auctions for:
Pair 12' -2.75lb Ballistas built by vic gibson
Pair Century NG 12'-3lb
Pair Century Armalite 12'-3lb
May be of interest, eBay currently has auctions for:
Pair 12' -2.75lb Ballistas built by vic gibson
Pair Century NG 12'-3lb
Pair Century Armalite 12'-3lb
Nash Scope 10ft 3lb, bend like crazy, and really good fun. So glad I made the move.
In reply to Post #1
11ft Baby Ballista in 2.5 are VERY good
11ft Baby Ballista in 2.5 are VERY good
In reply to Post #1
Set of wychwood SPD's 2.75lb on eBay. Great rods and rare to find a set. A steal at that money.
Scrap that, they've sold. Thought they wouldn't last long.
Set of wychwood SPD's 2.75lb on eBay. Great rods and rare to find a set. A steal at that money.
Scrap that, they've sold. Thought they wouldn't last long.
In reply to Post #13
Totally agree
Totally agree
In reply to Post #1
I tried a pair of 11ft 3lb Ballistas and they were really nice but gave the Aviator Flex a go and liked them more. The Flex were still lovely to play a fish on but far crisper for casting, even at 30/40 yards I just felt more accurate with them. Both a pleasure to play a mid double on but the Ballista is more through action, although I'd say the ballista might even more in the butt than the Aviator Flex. I've always liked through action rods and my Chimera barbel is probably my favourite, so was surprised that I liked the Aviator Flex more. It just felt like it did everything the Ballista did but more. Maybe one to put on the list anyway.
I tried a pair of 11ft 3lb Ballistas and they were really nice but gave the Aviator Flex a go and liked them more. The Flex were still lovely to play a fish on but far crisper for casting, even at 30/40 yards I just felt more accurate with them. Both a pleasure to play a mid double on but the Ballista is more through action, although I'd say the ballista might even more in the butt than the Aviator Flex. I've always liked through action rods and my Chimera barbel is probably my favourite, so was surprised that I liked the Aviator Flex more. It just felt like it did everything the Ballista did but more. Maybe one to put on the list anyway.
In reply to Post #8
Likewise, awesome rods with a lovely action. I've got a set in 2 3/4 and 3 1/2.
Recently bought a set of Harrison Accurix in 3lb TC and they have a similar action
Likewise, awesome rods with a lovely action. I've got a set in 2 3/4 and 3 1/2.
Recently bought a set of Harrison Accurix in 3lb TC and they have a similar action
In reply to Post #19
I have a set of flex and I agree with everything you say except for ballista having more in the butt section. Plus, the op said on a budget and flex definitely don't fall into that category
I have a set of flex and I agree with everything you say except for ballista having more in the butt section. Plus, the op said on a budget and flex definitely don't fall into that category
In reply to Post #21
I'll take your word on it as only had a few fish on the Ballistas before selling them. One was 35lb though and the rod had bags left in the bottom. I was thinking second hand as opposed to new but perhaps still too much, in which case apologies.
I'll take your word on it as only had a few fish on the Ballistas before selling them. One was 35lb though and the rod had bags left in the bottom. I was thinking second hand as opposed to new but perhaps still too much, in which case apologies.
In reply to Post #1
What is your budget, and do you need 2 or 3 rods ?
What is your budget, and do you need 2 or 3 rods ?
In reply to Post #22
You don't see too many come up for sale second hand . I guess that says a lot about them really. I love mine, can't see me ever letting them go
You don't see too many come up for sale second hand . I guess that says a lot about them really. I love mine, can't see me ever letting them go
In reply to Post #22
I have a set of ballistas that I built in 1995, but still bought another set of 3 built by vic Gibson recently for £250, so they are out there if you look
I have a set of ballistas that I built in 1995, but still bought another set of 3 built by vic Gibson recently for £250, so they are out there if you look
Free spirit ES or Century NG
In reply to Post #26
There's a pair of cotswold built baby ballistas on ebay atm, decent price aswell
There's a pair of cotswold built baby ballistas on ebay atm, decent price aswell
Wow the price of Ballistas on eBay!
I've got two that I barely ever use, time to sell on I reckon.
OP, I use Baby Ballistas in 2.5tc for almost all my current fishing and they're fantastic rods. IMO definitely worth waiting and saving for a set.
I've got two that I barely ever use, time to sell on I reckon.
OP, I use Baby Ballistas in 2.5tc for almost all my current fishing and they're fantastic rods. IMO definitely worth waiting and saving for a set.
Also the set of Cotswold R1 lights on eBay are worth considering. They are the original 2.75lb blank. Had a set myself and always regretted selling em. Great rods.
In reply to Post #1
Another rod worth looking at is the ESP MK-2 Floater rod 12' 2.5lb, very nice playing action, from £100 to £130 per rod.
They sometimes come up for sale 2nd hand so keep a look out.
Another rod worth looking at is the ESP MK-2 Floater rod 12' 2.5lb, very nice playing action, from £100 to £130 per rod.
They sometimes come up for sale 2nd hand so keep a look out.
In reply to Post #1
My 1st thoughts in order were Accurix then Ballista, both lovely playing rods.
As mentioned I wouldn't overlook lower tc rods inc Barbel rods.
I have some 2.5lb Torrix which have a lovely playing action.
Another option and well within your price range, Greys Stalker Rod. I have the 2.75lb, lovely soft action, to me anyway. I've cast a decent distance with heavy controllers.
My 1st thoughts in order were Accurix then Ballista, both lovely playing rods.
As mentioned I wouldn't overlook lower tc rods inc Barbel rods.
I have some 2.5lb Torrix which have a lovely playing action.
Another option and well within your price range, Greys Stalker Rod. I have the 2.75lb, lovely soft action, to me anyway. I've cast a decent distance with heavy controllers.
In reply to Post #31
Accurix may be well out of his price range at almost £400 a pop factory build
Accurix may be well out of his price range at almost £400 a pop factory build
In reply to Post #32
I took that forgranted as it had already been mentioned about looking second hand for those types of rod, it was more a comment on my opinion as a players rod confirming others thoughts
EDIT, as mentioned on another thread the Accurix are/were on offer at Johnson Ross, there are still 2 of the 3lb @ £262 each, but that's out of price range, but someone else may be interested....wish I'd of been able to justify a set.
I took that forgranted as it had already been mentioned about looking second hand for those types of rod, it was more a comment on my opinion as a players rod confirming others thoughts
EDIT, as mentioned on another thread the Accurix are/were on offer at Johnson Ross, there are still 2 of the 3lb @ £262 each, but that's out of price range, but someone else may be interested....wish I'd of been able to justify a set.
In reply to Post #33
Yeah lovely rods you dont see many second hand accurix , with the price of blanks goung up again more people will be looking at used i think .
Yeah lovely rods you dont see many second hand accurix , with the price of blanks goung up again more people will be looking at used i think .
In reply to Post #34
Must admit I did a double take at the £400...good god
Where will it stop, Steves pension pot a bit low
(Joke)
Must admit I did a double take at the £400...good god
Where will it stop, Steves pension pot a bit low
(Joke)
In reply to Post #2
Do these have the same action as the Wychwood Extricator MLT 10ft ???
Do these have the same action as the Wychwood Extricator MLT 10ft ???
In reply to Post #6
Yeah, looking at your suggestions, I think I'm probably going to have to go for second hand ...
Yeah, looking at your suggestions, I think I'm probably going to have to go for second hand ...
In reply to Post #23
Probably about £150 for each rod and I need 3, but will probably go for second hand ...
Probably about £150 for each rod and I need 3, but will probably go for second hand ...
In reply to Post #36
i originally owned a set of the MLT's and found them as stiff as a broom. The new extricator plus rods bend but have enough grunt to stop fish from running into snags. What i also love about them is the crisp casting action, not floppy or loose, but a decent punch if that makes sense.
i originally owned a set of the MLT's and found them as stiff as a broom. The new extricator plus rods bend but have enough grunt to stop fish from running into snags. What i also love about them is the crisp casting action, not floppy or loose, but a decent punch if that makes sense.
In reply to Post #37
Look what's just turned up on eBay!
Set of 3 Freespirit ES, postage offered, accepts offers and already very fairly priced
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/186084581283?hash=item2b53815fa3%3Ag%3AvQwAAOSwdZ5ksnZx&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4CZhDTA%2BW1JuwTUkKUHgWOqdosLf%2FSTfxvPKLfBc6pSYTulQLG9Nrp4o69kBRkQnKB2BBaZpmpsFLSfocrGEZPubViJ5ikKYLe1zWwwXJyW13c2UckQjmOGvtu2%2F4diFZLedYwRRth6NZ1fL16%2B4KsNERwy2NYUQw9qkXGKATa4nkwT%2FKLxUdsjk5zZGUGqnemfTwQv74%2FDUJ857LfUxSTmaZSCK3bluYIpPku5uSeej6X6E0j2FikkWXRFoNLgzbXHxZ5jBuJC0NK40kfXpOzOPu6VCir2iQ2O4cJJjIXoj%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR5K43azkYg&LH_ItemCondition=3000
Look what's just turned up on eBay!
Set of 3 Freespirit ES, postage offered, accepts offers and already very fairly priced
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/186084581283?hash=item2b53815fa3%3Ag%3AvQwAAOSwdZ5ksnZx&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4CZhDTA%2BW1JuwTUkKUHgWOqdosLf%2FSTfxvPKLfBc6pSYTulQLG9Nrp4o69kBRkQnKB2BBaZpmpsFLSfocrGEZPubViJ5ikKYLe1zWwwXJyW13c2UckQjmOGvtu2%2F4diFZLedYwRRth6NZ1fL16%2B4KsNERwy2NYUQw9qkXGKATa4nkwT%2FKLxUdsjk5zZGUGqnemfTwQv74%2FDUJ857LfUxSTmaZSCK3bluYIpPku5uSeej6X6E0j2FikkWXRFoNLgzbXHxZ5jBuJC0NK40kfXpOzOPu6VCir2iQ2O4cJJjIXoj%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR5K43azkYg&LH_ItemCondition=3000
In reply to Post #40
I was just looking at those, but not many pictures showing the condition ...
I was just looking at those, but not many pictures showing the condition ...
In reply to Post #40
Would,nt touch them awful photos and terrible description .And he has,nt sent the last 3 items sold !!
Would,nt touch them awful photos and terrible description .And he has,nt sent the last 3 items sold !!
In reply to Post #41
Actually, the seller doesn't have the best feedback.... Sorry, I hadn't noticed that this morning.
Maybe avoid unless you can see them first.
Actually, the seller doesn't have the best feedback.... Sorry, I hadn't noticed that this morning.
Maybe avoid unless you can see them first.
In reply to Post #42
ah, ok - what is the cheapest option available for a baby ballista. I'm not interested in being flash or trendy, I just want a decent through action rod that will land small carp and large carp, and last as long as possible.
ah, ok - what is the cheapest option available for a baby ballista. I'm not interested in being flash or trendy, I just want a decent through action rod that will land small carp and large carp, and last as long as possible.
A bit outside your parameters at 12' 9” but an ESP Vertex Distance will fit the bill perfectly otherwise. Don't get hung up by the distance description, yes they lob a lead a fair range in the right hands but have a beautiful through action. They have an ultra slim blank and in the 2.75 to 3.25 are really good all rounders. A lovely looking rod and come up used at bargain basement prices. I've said it many times on here but probably the most underrated rod out there 👍
I've got 3 sets in different TC's and wouldn't part with any of them.
I've got 3 sets in different TC's and wouldn't part with any of them.
In reply to Post #1
Marcus please check your Pm inbox
Hope this solves your search. Be quick
Marcus please check your Pm inbox
Hope this solves your search. Be quick
I have Harrison Acurix and I can't recommend them enough.
Not for distance casting, mind, but the playing action is something else, IMO.
Not for distance casting, mind, but the playing action is something else, IMO.
In reply to Post #1
I posted a similar post in the summer on here, and got advised towards a few options, went with the Harrison Ballista 12ft 3lb tc. They are stunning. Only cost me £250 for the three rods on ebay and they're great condition.
I posted a similar post in the summer on here, and got advised towards a few options, went with the Harrison Ballista 12ft 3lb tc. They are stunning. Only cost me £250 for the three rods on ebay and they're great condition.
In reply to Post #44
Elltell was selling three mint bb on here at a stupidly cheap price £400 they were excellent as i built them lol Dont know if he still has them ?
Elltell was selling three mint bb on here at a stupidly cheap price £400 they were excellent as i built them lol Dont know if he still has them ?
Just wanted to hijack the thread abit as curious to what size reels you would pair with some light players rods? i.e baby ballistas 2.5tc
Do you think tournies would be too big or would i be better with something smaller? ss2600's?
Thanks
Do you think tournies would be too big or would i be better with something smaller? ss2600's?
Thanks
In reply to Post #50
Dont be misled with the 2.5 t.c rating on 11ft bb they will handle any carp that swims in british waters . Tournies are too big in my opinion but each to their own just make sure the reel seat is big enough .
Dont be misled with the 2.5 t.c rating on 11ft bb they will handle any carp that swims in british waters . Tournies are too big in my opinion but each to their own just make sure the reel seat is big enough .
In reply to Post #50
As jeffire has said, it's very much a personal thing. If you adhere to the balanced ethos your Tournies would be overkill, way too heavy.....however..... I bought some Shimano X Aero 4000 for my 2.5lb Torrix, I've also used 1 on my 2.75lb Greys stalker, to me that should be quite a nice pairing but I don't like them. I'm used to infinities, granted on bigger rods, but the Aero feel like kiddies toys. I've promised I'll stick at them and I'll get used to them. Odd thing is I have no issues with my 2500 Stradic on my 2-10g Finesse rod, go figure. Maybe it's a mental thing about bigger fish, who knows!
EDIT, one thing I couldn't live with though, the bloody horrible double handle, it makes Marmite look attractive straight onto Felindre for some single handle replacements...and yes, that's form over function, i don;t care, they're mine
As jeffire has said, it's very much a personal thing. If you adhere to the balanced ethos your Tournies would be overkill, way too heavy.....however..... I bought some Shimano X Aero 4000 for my 2.5lb Torrix, I've also used 1 on my 2.75lb Greys stalker, to me that should be quite a nice pairing but I don't like them. I'm used to infinities, granted on bigger rods, but the Aero feel like kiddies toys. I've promised I'll stick at them and I'll get used to them. Odd thing is I have no issues with my 2500 Stradic on my 2-10g Finesse rod, go figure. Maybe it's a mental thing about bigger fish, who knows!
EDIT, one thing I couldn't live with though, the bloody horrible double handle, it makes Marmite look attractive
straight onto Felindre for some single handle replacements...and yes, that's form over function, i don;t care, they're mine
In reply to Post #47
Ah, The Acurix, they are fantastic aren't they?
Ah, The Acurix, they are fantastic aren't they?
In reply to Post #51
Thanks, think you may have actually made my newly acquired BB - lovely build , cant wait to use them!!
Thanks, think you may have actually made my newly acquired BB - lovely build , cant wait to use them!!
In reply to Post #52
I know exactly what you mean, think its because i am so used to a big pit that using something smaller whilst still fishing for big fish albeit on a smaller lake makes me feel abit undergunned...
I know exactly what you mean, think its because i am so used to a big pit that using something smaller whilst still fishing for big fish albeit on a smaller lake makes me feel abit undergunned...
In reply to Post #55
When I was younger I couldn't afford the right reels/rods for the right situation, I needed them to cover any situation so big pits and higher than norm tc rods it was. I guess I just got used to them, neither feel big or heavy to me though I know they are. My newer Torrix do feel heavy though, reminds me I must weigh my old ballistas for comparison some time, I'm sure it's not my imagination!
When I was younger I couldn't afford the right reels/rods for the right situation, I needed them to cover any situation so big pits and higher than norm tc rods it was. I guess I just got used to them, neither feel big or heavy to me though I know they are. My newer Torrix do feel heavy though, reminds me I must weigh my old ballistas for comparison some time, I'm sure it's not my imagination!
In reply to Post #48
What sort of distance are they capable of casting? Saw some the other day and they look great. Lack of distance casting ability would be the downside that prevents me getting them.
What sort of distance are they capable of casting? Saw some the other day and they look great. Lack of distance casting ability would be the downside that prevents me getting them.
In reply to Post #57
Probably 70 yards tops.
For the person who started this thread probably good enough.
If you want a players rod for any significant distance your going to have to put the rig in a bait boat or there has to be a compromise.
Else you going to end up with a golf esq bag of rods.
Probably 70 yards tops.
For the person who started this thread probably good enough.
If you want a players rod for any significant distance your going to have to put the rig in a bait boat or there has to be a compromise.
Else you going to end up with a golf esq bag of rods.
In reply to Post #58
Thanks, I will have to resist them then as my Golf bag is already full of rods. I was over the 14 limit, but have given a few away, so keep being tempted .
Thanks, I will have to resist them then as my Golf bag is already full of rods. I was over the 14 limit, but have given a few away, so keep being tempted .
In reply to Post #58
Am I reading that right that you think 3lb tc Ballistas are good for 70yds tops? Back in the 90's we fished at 100yds with the 2 3/4lb tc Ballistas with Aero 6010's.
Am I reading that right that you think 3lb tc Ballistas are good for 70yds tops? Back in the 90's we fished at 100yds with the 2 3/4lb tc Ballistas with Aero 6010's.
In reply to Post #50
I currently use some old Shimano 10000xte's on my Baby Ballistas, but have also used my Shimano Ci4 5500's on them and they suit them beautifully.
I currently use some old Shimano 10000xte's on my Baby Ballistas, but have also used my Shimano Ci4 5500's on them and they suit them beautifully.
In reply to Post #61
Back then 100yds was easily achievable.
But now we can use distance sticks to wrap the line and measure the distance, so it seems that 100yds is a bit further than it used to be
Back then 100yds was easily achievable.
But now we can use distance sticks to wrap the line and measure the distance, so it seems that 100yds is a bit further than it used to be
In reply to Post #62
Yep, by about 20 yards
Yep, by about 20 yards
In reply to Post #60
Harrisons own video on the Acurix states the 2.75lb is good for 100 yards with a 2oz lead.
The video on YouTube complete with a 11 year younger Kev Clayton.
Click here
Harrisons own video on the Acurix states the 2.75lb is good for 100 yards with a 2oz lead.
The video on YouTube complete with a 11 year younger Kev Clayton.
Click here
In reply to Post #64
NG's and Balistas both have a lovely through action, I've had 2 sets of the NG's in 3.5lb and currently use Balistas in 3lb, both have similar actions despite the slight tc difference. Had a 106lb cat on the Balista recently and although bent double it coped really well.
NG's and Balistas both have a lovely through action, I've had 2 sets of the NG's in 3.5lb and currently use Balistas in 3lb, both have similar actions despite the slight tc difference. Had a 106lb cat on the Balista recently and although bent double it coped really well.
In reply to Post #57
Hi mate. I guess it depends slightly on the size of lead, and line thickness - but I would say they are not built for big casting distances, and that is the balance/compromise of deciding if you want more of a through action rod like these Harrison Ballistas I bought, or something more beefy with less of a through action.
For my fishing, I rarely go more than 60 to 70 yards as I prefer closer in.
If I was fishing in excess of 80 yards I'd probably look at another type of rod.
Hi mate. I guess it depends slightly on the size of lead, and line thickness - but I would say they are not built for big casting distances, and that is the balance/compromise of deciding if you want more of a through action rod like these Harrison Ballistas I bought, or something more beefy with less of a through action.
For my fishing, I rarely go more than 60 to 70 yards as I prefer closer in.
If I was fishing in excess of 80 yards I'd probably look at another type of rod.
When I first got my 2 3/4lb tc Ballistas I phoned Harrisons and spoke to Steve. He told me that it was perfectly safe to cast a 4oz lead, flat out,. without danger of breaking the rods. Blew my mind to be honest.
Someone in the trade also told me that the butt section of the 2 3/4lb tc is the same as the 3lb tc. Don't know if that's true or not?
Someone in the trade also told me that the butt section of the 2 3/4lb tc is the same as the 3lb tc. Don't know if that's true or not?
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