So far, all of my blanks I have purchased locally, so I can see their action before buying. I would like to try Batsons rods, but would have to "mail order" and I hate to learn the hard way what I am actually going to get. i.e. I know tha action of a G Loomis 7' Saltwater Popping rod, GL3 P844, 8-14 lb line 1/4 - 5/8 lure, fast/medium backbone.
If I compare it to a Rainshadow RX7, IP843 (specs are closer than the IP844), would I get something reasonable close, or do you have to learn the Manufactures traits to know what to order?

They will not be exact but model for model number they should be reasonably close. Check the action listing in the catalogs and compare. The Common Cents system would be your best bet but there are not listings for all these rods in the current database. So you have to do the best you can by comparing butt and tip diameters and catalog specs. The two you mention should not be far off.

Thta was pretty much what I assumed, but I would think that a Popping Rod 844should have the same specs....but they didn't in this example, I had to go to an 843 for the secs to be closer.

I don't recommend anything other than a trusted source. I think you should get to know Bob McKamey at Custom Tackle. He is a vendor of Batson, G Loomis, St Croix and Lamiglas and has been at this for a very long time. He is a fisherman, rod builder and many other things ... LOL. But most of all, he KNOWS blanks and has been very honest in all the dealings I have had with him. Look to the vendor list at the left and click the link.

I vote for Jim's advice

Thanks guys, sounds like a solid recommendation....since he sells both, it would be very easy for him to compare. It seems like there are a lot of solid, stand up guys in this business.