Been learning on here for about a year now and have successfully built 3 rods of my own thanks to this page (mhx 845, PB73Hxf, xray 736).. I’ve searched this topic on here but haven’t found much info, I’m Looking to build a rod for a friend, dedicated to swim jigs.. 7’ in length and something more on the heavy side vs MH as we mainly fish them around hydrilla and pads etc. I’m using a point blank 7’3”HXF (otterods built) that I love for the technique, but I doubt he will want anything over 7’. I’m considering using that blank and trimming 3” off the butt, but I’m not sure how and/or how much it will affect the power and action of the rod.. any other blank recommendations are welcome. Full size 3/8-1/2oz + trailer (Little Dipper, rage menace etc.) it will be thrown on 50-65lb braid 95% of the time.

Cutting three inches from the butt will slow the action and reduce the overall power. You'd likely not notice the slight reduction in power when casting.

Mock it up - slide everything on the handle 3-inches forward and try casting and retrieving with it. You'll quickly know if you like it.

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Thank you for the advice Tom. Always interested in what you have to say on here.

Cutting down the PB731HXF is a great option. As Tom mentiones, you'll lose some, but probably insignificant, power and slow the action a hair too.

Another popular choice is the NFC Xray Neo MB765. Its a 7'6" blank but its advertised as being able to be cut down to 6'9" without significantly altering the power and action. Ive built 2 @ 7'3" and theyre awesome for chatterbaits and swim jigs.

I actually have one of those I bought used from someone on a different site, I believe it’s cut down to about 6’ 11” and I haven’t considered looking for a different chatter bait rod since owning it. personally I feel like it is a little too soft for the swim jig as I usually pick that up when the vegetation is a little too thick to be able to work a chatter bait through isuccessfully.