rod lure weight rating question

[tje0705]

Ok im looking into getting one of the mag lews speed sticks. Im looking at the 7'11" heavy rod. I will be using this as my primary flipping and pitching setup for heavier cover. The rod is rated for 1/2 oz to 3oz. I like to flip and pitch soft plastics wtih 1/4 oz weights sometimes and 3/8 oz jigs as well. My question is with the 1/4 oz weight, bulkier soft plastic, and hook do you think I will be over the 1/2 oz mark? what about 3/8 oz jigs with trailer? I know the obvious answer is to weight it but im not going to weigh all the combos that I would ever throw on this. Like is said this will be used for all weights 1/4 oz to punching weights I just wanted to know what you guys thought about this? Also I know there are other larger rods around this length that are rated for 1/4oz to whatever weight but im really liking this rod and am probably going to get it depending on yalls answers. Thanks for the info guys. 

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

I don't have hands on with that Rod but 1/2-3 is a rather wide range. Flipping is no problem because the Rod doesn't load you're just feeding out line. Pitching maybe less than ideal on the light end. That sounds more like a punching Rod to me. I'd look elsewhere personally. 

[Jrob78]

I agree with DVT. Unless I'm fishing really nasty stuff I don't use a big heavy meat stick for pitching, (don't do much flipping.)   I use a 7' MHF and a 7'3" HXF for 95% of my close in work.

That rod you listed sounds like a big, heavy punching rod.  If you're not fishing that kind of cover, get something lighter that will handle your lighter stuff, as well as, heavier jigs and t-rigs.

[hawgenvy]

I have an 8 foot Powell 3D heavy punching rod (rated 3/4 to 2 oz) that I'll use for punching through hyacinth mats with a 1 1/2 oz weight, but I'll also use it with lighter weight or a 1/4 to 1/2 oz jig/trailer in the specific application of fishing in heavy lily pads where the lure will fall through easily because the spaces between the pads are accessible yet it takes a ton of muscle to control the fish and pull it out, especially when the rascal dives for the roots. There is also the advantage of wielding a heavy punching rod if you're lucky enough to get bitten by a 7+ pounder anywhere near heavy cover, or for using an A-rig. And I have no trouble pitching a small jig with the big rod. But generally it's a lot nicer and probably more productive, and certainly less exhausting, to work a jig with a 7 or so foot MH or H even in cover as long as you're not punching mats. Hope this makes sense.