As I recuperate from Carpal Tunnel and elbow surgery, I’m in the market for a moderately priced good quality blank that is readily available. Price is not the main concern but is a factor, because I’m not sure how often I’ll use a DS rig. I’ve got about 8 more days before doc says I can fish so I need to get a move on. I’m going to give Andy Dear another call this morning, but any suggestions would be appreciated
Thanks for your time
Ken Blevins

Hi Ken,
Check your email....


Andy Dear
Lamar Fishing Products

Shikari P7000 cut down some is a favorite light action extra fast. This blank is for very light line vertical presentations only. This is a very very light action rod although it does have the "hinged" extra fast action. Build it with recoils and it doesn't even feel like a fishing rod. Useless for anything else.

St. Croix 6'9" MLXF in either SC3 or SC4 is a perfect DS blank for most folks. You can use it for other light line applications, but I feel it is best as a DS rod.

Any St. Croix MLF spin blank will get the job done and can perform multiple applications. Build a SC570MLF and use it as a DS rod in addition to wacky 4"Senko, small jerkbaits, small cranks, small topwater, skipping light baits, and the list goes on and on. If you don't DS much yet, why bother with a highly specialized tool with limited other applications. I think that specialized DS blanks are overated (but of course I had to build a couple of dedicated DS rods).

Batson Ent - Rainshadow Blank model; # ISB822.5 -M = 6'10" 1pc, 6-14 lb test 1/8 - 5/8 oz lure wt, Butt = .55 tip = 4.5, Xtra Fast action Med power, Blank wt = 1.95 oz. MSRP = $50.53.
This blanks was designed by Mike Thorson ( Product designer ) for Batson Enterprises, IMHO one of the most talented designers in the industry today. This was designed for the DS technique, I know you will not be disappointed in your choice of any Batson Ent. products.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.
Thank you - Everyone for your support.
Bill Batson
CEO
Batson Enterprises
Rainshadow/Forecast Product lines
877-875-2381
batson@batsonenterprises.com
www.batsonenterprises.com

I agree with Bill on the ISB 822.5 as many anglers are modifying the drop shot technique to include heavier lines and bigger baits.
Other blanks I've used are the St Croix 68MXF for a blank similar to the above, G Loomis P8400 for a blank similar to the Shikari P7000, and the Lamiglas TIMS 78ML, IMS78ML,( XS 78ML if you can find one).