Carlos Carrapiço wrote:RISE wrote:
EG also has some outstanding solid tip offerings that I very much enjoy fishing. I won’t go in-depth on that subject right now, as there are so many variables I’d want to touch on, but let’s just say...they all have their strengths, and of course, a few weaknesses here and there.
...... aside from the Rapid Gunner and Hooligan which are both being tested as jig rods, but in different weight classes ATM....
Dear Rise,
I have also fallen for the EG solid tip rods.
In my collection are:
FACT HFAC-511MHST
FACT HFAC-67MHST
FACT HFAC-70HST
Plus some Daiwa Air Edge:
641LB-ST
671MB-ST
701MHB-ST
I'm happy to see that someone has pulled the trigger and would be happy to hear your experience on the ST.
Additionally, I have my eyes on the Rapid Gunner HD but didn't find any real world reviews. Would be really nice to hear what you have to say.
Carlos,
That is a fine lineup of rods you have listed, and I actually have a HFAC-70HST on the way (which BTW...is built with a Designo blank) as we speak, along with 6 other rods, including another Designo ST rod...
Two of my absolute favorite ST sticks right now, are my one-off prototype Raid Gladiator Technix Bounty Killer AGS that I was very lucky to acquire (I’ll post some pics in the next day or two), as there are no others in the world like it and the EG Black Raven SS MHST-F. The Bounty Killer is simply incredible to fish, and is also the lightest I’ll go, power-wise (ML). Its sensitivity, taper, balance, and casting abilities are truly outstanding. I love throwing a Neko Rig on this setup. It’s paired with a heavily modded Silver Mica Pix-zilla/I’ze Finesse spool build. The EG TKIC Black Raven SS is also outstanding, and just so much fun to fish. That one is paired with another heavily modded BFS-Ish-Tuned, Amber Orange Pix-zilla/I’ze Finesse spool. As you probably already know...EG’s ratings (power-wise) are sometimes quite a bit “optimistic” if you will, and I find that quite a few JDM sticks often fish 1/2-1 power rating lighter than their designations. This is especially true with the Black Raven SS and I feel that it actuality fishes more towards a Med-powered rod with a ML tip section. Truly versatile, yet powerful, and I’ve landed fish up to 6+ lbs on it without feeling like I was overpowered one bit. Absolutely love this rod as well. As stated...I own quite a few ST rods, and still have others I need to spend more time with, and will do so in the near future.
As for the Rapid Gunner...I opted for the RSR as I knew I’d be using/testing it for bottom contact duties. The HD model is lined with all double-foot guides, and for more of a “tip up” presentation such as jig fishing, I’d rather have the lighter, single foot Torzites lining the upper part of the blank than the heavier double foot guides. Just personal preference, IMO. If I was planning to pitch/fish heavy cover with it, I’d most likely have chosen the HD version. My time with the RSR is limited, but I like what I’m getting from it thus far. EG is starting to add some great options to their top tier line. I own over a dozen TKICs/RS/RSRs and have been very happy with their build quality/performance.