I have a couple of the cardinal spinning reels and have fished them hard without any regrets. As a matter of fact, my first spinning reel was a Abu Garcia Cardinal and I still have it and fish it. It has been 8 years now I think. I even submerged it (Not Intentionally) and had to clean it out. Used compressed air, and Rem-oil and some purple grease used for automobiles. (beat leaving lake water in it). That was 4 years ago, and it will be on the lake again next week. Just about everyone in my house has landed a bass or two on that reel. It has lived happily on a BPS for the last few years, but was on a lighting rod originally. (Top half of the LR was lost, don't ask) Have never owned a Cherrywood, but for graphite composit with SS304 guides, at the price, it sounds tempting. I liked the lightning rod, and would buy another, and not hesitate on trying a cherrywood. Although I do see a lot of reviews mentioning a broken tip. Maybe people who don;t know how to use a drag, or abuse a rod, you just never know. Let us know how that cherrywood rod works out for you. At that price........ I might just have to pick one up myself. I am on a super tight budgt these days. Still gotta fish thiugh.