I downloaded the new St. Croix catalogue after somebody told me to look at the new SCV blanks (reenforced with SCVI in the butt) as an alternative to the Loomis IMX Spin Jig blanks. Does anybody know how the new SCV would compare to the IMX, exspecially the Loomis SJ tapers.

#1 - The new blanks are not "reinforced" in the butt with SCVI, they are made LIGHTER by using SCVI in the larger diameter lower section.

#2 - SCV is definitely a better grade of blank material than IMX.

#3 - NOTHING compares to many of the SJ blanks that Loomis makes. Each manufacturer has their strong areas ... this is one of Loomis'.

Call Bob McKamey at Custom Tackle. I know for a fact that he had quite a few of the new SCV blanks to check out a short time ago AND he definitely has shipped his fair share of Loomis SJ blanks over the years.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/18/2008 09:44PM by Jim Gamble.

Well, I know Marty has been pondering several models of rod blanks, for his next build. Jim is correct and as I have stated many times about certain models of G*Loomis SJ - Spin Jig models<> "Some are definately unique and yet to be exactly duplicated by other blank fabricators." Also as stated, the brand spanking new SC5/6 is built from a higher grade of carbon fiber SC6 that is blended with SC5. St. Croix tends to also build blanks to thier own unique designs. I have been receiving shipments of thes new blanks by St. Croix and I will have to "Toot The Horn _ Just A Little Bit" !! The folks at St. Croix, along with Jason Brunner have built what I would consider some of the most awesome rod blanks that I have felt in my many years of being involved with the custom rod building business. Granted that I have not built any yet, but just feeling of the blanks insures you they will make for one of the lighest rods you could possibly make. The blanks just have a well balanced feel in your hand, that makes a blank just seem to float, when you pick it up. I have already shipped several builders that ordered these blanks back earlier and will be obtaining results soon. As good as the blanks feel, I can't imagine anything but fantastic results. I have the 2009 St. Croix blank catalog in PDF. If you would like me to forward you a copy, just shoot me a e-mail to -- customtackle@united.net. There are also lots of other new models of blanks by St. Croix for 09. Treat yourself to a nice Christmas present. Give me a call at 931-684-6164 and I'll be glad to help assist you.

Bob McKamey -- Custom Tackle Supply

The few new St. Croix models that I've had the opportunity to measure, are measuring out quite a bit faster than the brown models. And measuring out at similar speeds to GLX and IMX SJ and MB models.





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Better to have and not need than to need and not have.

I built out a 5C68MXF-B with a simple spiral and micro guides...it is the lightest rod I own. I can't wait to fish it this year.

The _68MXF taper/design is my absolute favorite and St. Croix has created a classic with this blank. (Thanks to Bob M. for showing me one in his shop)

I have owned several of the Loomis SJ blanks and they are great, too. I always had the IMX grade and felt like it did everything I wanted it to. One of the most versitile blank designs out there for fishing crappie to trout to walleye to bass...and with a line rating from 4 to (8-10) # and lures from 1/32 to 1/4 - it don't get much better than that for my needs. (I even landed a 42-inch pike on this rod in Canada.)

Two exceptionally well-designed blanks!

Les