I really like ST Croix as well and am using their 7'6" 4pc 2wt blanks in the SCIV and new SC3. My question was asked because every blank series seems to have its shining stars and its ugly duckling ( ie.. great 4wt but 6 wt is a club etc.).............. and I don't want to commit to a blank only to find out it was the dog of the series.

I also really, really like Batson as a company and like to use their stuff where possible.

RX8 everyday of the week and twice on Sunday. I think the rod is more responsive, crisper and the customer support/service for the RX8 leaves St. Croix in the dust.

Just my blunt .02
Paul

Billy Vivona Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I thought it was "common knowledge" that the RX8's
> were made OEM by St. Croix for Batson? I've heard
> that for quite a few people for quite some time? I
> don't see what the big deal is, obviously if all
> Batson blanks are being made overseas, except for
> this one series, it doesnt' take a brain surgeon
> to figure out they are being made by one of the
> few US blank Manu's, and when you look at the
> specs.....what's the big "Secret"?
>
> Batson = RX8+864-4 = Tip 4.5 Butt:0.325 4 weight
> 1.45 oz
> St. Croix = 5F864.4 = Tip 4 Butt: .325 weight 1.4
> Lami = doesnt' do 8'6 4pc fly rods, and all their
> fly rods in 9' are over .4Od at teh butt
> SAge = 486-4 SLT = Tip: 3.5 Butt: .325 wt = 1
> 3/16oz...or 1.19oz
> 486-4 VT2 = Tip: 3.5 Butt: .355 wt = 1 3/8 or
> 1.38
> 486-4 Z-AXIS = Tip: 3.5 Butt: .330 wt = 1 3/16
> 1.19oz
>
>
> NERBS - North East Rod Builders



I dont know for certain, but I was told months back this to be true...I never assumed it. Anyhow, who has the better warranty policy...I got Batson blanks and Croix, however I would think this would be a consideration.....

Steve K e-mail me at broderick6@comcast.net

Just being the Devil's Advocate, but it seems kind of silly to worry about the origin of a blank when, as far as I know, NONE of the components that you add to it will be made in the U.S. (probably, neither will the hooks, line, sinkers, etc)

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Mike - where are Rec Recoils's made? What about Bellinger or Struble seats (I have no clue abotu fly reel seats)? Venerri's inerts?

Billy,

Have no idea on fly stuff (or according to my wife, on much of anything else.) that's why I said "as far as I know"
Did you get any fishing in with Al or are you waiting for the walleye run up here next spring?

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Billy B., I e-mailed you. Check your spam filter if you don't see my message.

Another devil's advocate. Many of the differences between rod "weight" and line "weight" being discussed here are trivialized by variations in the dynamics between supposedly uniform rod blanks and variations in the flexibility, diameter and weight of supposedly uniform fly lines, to say nothing of variations in individual casting strokes, personal preferences, and angling needs. In short, the tolerances of fly fishermen commonly excede the tolerances of the equipment they discuss, as those who have themselves weighed "identical" lines and deflection tested "identical" rods will likely admit. On the bright side, such discussions stimulate interest in fly fishing and rod building. Still, one test cast mating a particular rod and a particular line is worth a thousand words.