Loomis introduced a line of Trout rods labelled TSR***-*. (i.e. TSR 801-2)

The handle is a two toned natural cork and dark cork. Anyone know what the dark cork is? Given the prices of the rods, I'm assuming that they will try to keep it light. Normally burl or burnt cork runs 3-5 times the weight of regular cork so I'm a bit curious if Loomis has some lighter weight dark cork of sometime. Or is it something like what we normally have access to?

Thanks,
Mo

Good burnt cork isn't all that heavy. Composites are however.

BTW, I wouldn't assume anything about the design. We are talking about the same company that puts six guides on a 7'6" spinning rod.

You are probably going to have to see one to believe me ... but they ARE a mix of regular cork and composite, rubberized composite at that. They have two types. Some rods use a regular brownish composite, just like we purchase from vendors. Some rods use a very blackened composite, totally different. BTW, the stuff is on more than just trout rods at this point.

The new design wasn't built with weight reduction in mind, it was built with marketing appeal in mind.

Jim. Thanks. Goodness, hard to believe but perhaps not....This stuff is on their UL rods where you think they'll try to at least not weigh it down. Compossite is havey stuff.

As to 'good' burnt cork, what do you recommend?

Thanks,
Mo

Karen at Bingham has nice burnt cork.