I have several builds on Batson's RX7 and RX8 blanks and really enjoy them, but I've built my last one and it's time to re-order. I've read a lot of great things about MHX blanks, so my question is: Is the MHX line comparable to Batson's RX7 or RX8 line or is the MHX himod more comparable to the RX8. I have also built on the St croix III's so we can throw that in the comparison as well. I don't have the option of being able to order several blanks to compare myself, but I know some of you guys have done side by side comparison's. As with everyone else I'm looking for the best bang for my dollar. I'm really partial to the Batson RX8 line though. I'm building on 842's and 843's for reds and trout here on the Texas coast. Thanks

Batson has come a LONG way with the new RX8 lineup ... they offer very good quality, a strong value, great support and an extensive network of dealers. Since you have been happy with the RX8 series, why change? You definitely aren't doing anything wrong.

If you're already partial to the Batson's and are comfortable in knowing which blank to use for a given purpose, why change?

But I would strongly recommend giving the MHX or MHX Hi Mod a chance as I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at the quality. They are a very high quality blank with some features that the Batson's or any other blank have. The individual serial numbers and transferable warranty are just 2 off the top of my head.

I'd love to be able to give you side by side comparisons but since I found the MHX line, I've not felt the need to shop around. I can supply myself and my customers the best blanks on the market, in my opinion, at a super affordable price and offer them with an intangible feeling of security and confidence because they now they're getting the best.

There are so many blank manufacturers out there and they each nave their place on the market but for what you are looking for, I'd long no further.

I can't directly compare but...I am building an RX8 8 wt right now, and I built an MHx 8 wt over the winter that I just fished in Alaska during the Kenai Sockeye run. These are impressions only and others here will have far more experience than me.

MHx-very light weight, fast without being "superfast" action. Very good ferrule fit. A pleasure to fish with. It does not feel as powerful as the CCS rating published by Mudhole would indicate, meaning, it fishes like an 8 weight not a 9 weight. Excellent all around fly rod. It isn't that different in feel from my factory 8 wt Z Axis, for considerably less $$.


RX8--Nice finish, extremely fast and stiff action, light, but not as light as the MHX. Mine isn't fish ready yet, but I can tell you it could easily be overlined. It feels significantly stiffer than the MHx, and seat of the pants, it's like a 9 weight. I am building it to throw weighted lines and heavy flies. It feels just right for that. Interestingly, the ad copy on the Batson catalog matches my impressions pretty well. I'll have a better feel for this rod after September when it will get fished hard for Cohos.

I like both of these but they are very different. No doubt I will be building more of both in the future. I love the individual numbering, registration, and warranty situation with the MHx. That alone will sell a lot of rods for them.

Hope that helps.

Drew

Thanks guys, Mathew you hit, there are so many to choose from making choices really hard. I'm considering the MHX line because of price. Are the in the same category as the RX7 or RX8 line. No matter what choice I end up making, I will for sure give MHX a try soon if I choose to stay with Batson for now. So if the MHX line is comparable to RX8 there is a 30 dollar savings, but if I have to go to the hi mod MHX, the cost is about the same. Hopefully soon I will be able to make it to an expo and get a feel for all the brands out there, but for know we can just beat this topic around. Thats what makes this board great. It has taught me all I know about building rods. Thanks to everyone for making it great.

This type of question does not always get a straight answer but here
goes from what I've heard / experienced.

RX7, MHX and SCIII are all "IM7" materials
RX8, MHX HM and SCIV are all "IM8" higher modulus materials.
I beleive RX8+and SCV are multimodulus materials.

All are excellent products. Can't go wrong with any of them.

Thanks Steven, thats really what I was looking for. I couldn't find much info on MHX line, only the Hi Mod series. I sure enjoy the RX8 line from Batson so I think that's what I'll order next, but hope to soon try the MHX.
Is anyone out there using the HMP 842 and 843 himod mhx for trout and reds. Is the 842 to lite for spook jrs. I normally throw weightless plastics, but on a wade I need to be able to throw small top water and of course the gold spoon.

If you're looking into the MHX Hi Mod line's 842 & 3 and throwing Spook Jrs, I'd go with the SJ842. I throw Super Spooks & One Knocker sized baits with the SJ843 and they are just right for that blank. The SJ842 would be my choice for the smaller baits & still work for the weightless plastics.
I hope that helps.

I believe the MHX to be equivalent to the RX7.

MHX HM would be equal to RX8.

For me MHX should be compared with RX8 at least (if not better).

i live and guide in rockport tx,also build rods and will say the new mhx hm 842 is holding up great one of the best ive builded so id call mudhole and give one a try

capt alan beck
mhx pro staff
gottafish custom rods

Capt Alan, shoot me an email. I'm right up the road from you, maybe I can swing by and get a feel of them. Your email is hidden.

brandon
give me a call id be glad to show you them
361 563 2570

I just built a HM-MHX-DS822, and it is a sweet blank. It is light, fast, and sensitive. I would take this blank over my friend's factory GLX drop shot rod any day...

i unlocked my email address so if anyone has questions about mhx blanks you can now ask.