I am wondering how durable the RX8+ blank is compared to the RX7+. I am thinking about building a 7 wt. fly rod and I'm considering these 2 blanks. I like the action of my SCIV blanks and my Dan Craft Sig V blanks (new style), but would like to try something different in a 7 wt. Any opinions regarding these 2 Rainshadow blanks would be appreciated.

All of these blanks are more than durable enough for fishing use. But almost none of them will take loads of abuse. As rods have gotten lighter and less substantial, you have a more pleasant tool to fish with, but you have to exercise some care in how you transport and handle them.

To be direct, if you use the least bit of care with them, either the RX7 or RX8 blanks will hold up as well as any of the other high performance blanks out there.

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thanks for the reply Tom. I've not been able to cast either of these blanks. I'm also wondering if one of these blanks is more similar in action to either the SCIV or Sig V. I like the actions of both.

thanks,
Chris

Check the CCS data page and look at the AA figures. If the Rainshadow models are listed there you could make a good comparison on the actions that way.

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I've only cast one RX8+ trout rod for a short time and it was very fast actioned. Reminded me more of the Dan Craft FT blanks, which means it had more reserve power than any of the St Croix rods I've tried.