Cousins IM8 or Kistler KLX

[Dtrombly]

Hey all, looking for some input on these two rods. Both models 7'3" MH/F. Going to be used as strictly a Jig/texas rig rod. I'm curious for those that own/have owned both... is the KLX worth the extra $40 over the Cousins? Sensitivity, balance and durability being my main concerns. 

Thanks! ?

[Stephen B]

I haven't fished the Cousins rods, but around $200 it is tough to beat the Avid X and KLX. I think the KLX may slight beat the Avid X in terms of sensitivity, but the St Croix warranty is much better as the KLX has a 1 year warranty versus St Croix Avid Xs 15 year warranty. You can't go wrong with either. Hope that helps!

[kschultz76]

No experience with Cousins though I’ve read a few good things. Only KLX I own is in the CRT series for crankbaits. It’s a great stick, nicely build, great feel. If you can wait till Kistler has another sale upgrade your selection to the 7’3” Heavy Helium 3 for a few dollars more, well worth it I love my Helium 3 sticks. 

 

One option id throw out is if you’re comfortable going up to 7’5” American Legacy has the Megabass Orochi XX EMTF still available for $199.  Again I don’t own one but this rod is widely regarded as one of the best in the series and very popular for jigs just under 1/2 oz down to about 3/8oz plus a lot of other uses. I have many other Orochi XX rods and they’re fantastic, at this price they’re a steal. Do a little searching and you’ll find a lot about this rod. 

 

If you need a stick for 1/2 oz jigs and up they still have the Tour Versatile in stock as well which is also a versatile stick with a fair bit of power. 

 

The suggestion if the Avid X is another great option as well in your price range. 

 

Good luck!

[Yudo1]

29 minutes ago, kschultz76 said:

No experience with Cousins though I’ve read a few good things. Only KLX I own is in the CRT series for crankbaits. It’s a great stick, nicely build, great feel. If you can wait till Kistler has another sale upgrade your selection to the 7’3” Heavy Helium 3 for a few dollars more, well worth it I love my Helium 3 sticks. 

 

One option id throw out is if you’re comfortable going up to 7’5” American Legacy has the Megabass Orochi XX EMTF still available for $199.  Again I don’t own one but this rod is widely regarded as one of the best in the series and very popular for jigs just under 1/2 oz down to about 3/8oz plus a lot of other uses. I have many other Orochi XX rods and they’re fantastic, at this price they’re a steal. Do a little searching and you’ll find a lot about this rod. 

 

If you need a stick for 1/2 oz jigs and up they still have the Tour Versatile in stock as well which is also a versatile stick with a fair bit of power. 

 

The suggestion if the Avid X is another great option as well in your price range. 

 

Good luck!

X2