Orochi VS M1

[kroberts9]

So here is my dilemma, I have a terrible case of the expensive bait monkey you could say.

 

I currently have a 7'2 light/ fast action  which is more like a medium light fast Phenix M1. This is my drop shot rod.

 

Here is where the dilemma comes in, tackle trap which is slowly becoming my favorite site for some custom/ jdm equipment wants. They have a large assortment of Megabass rods and one caught my eye.

 

The new Orochi xXx jdm F3-610KS jadepython. 

 

My question before I fully submit to the bait monkey is, has anyone used a JDM Orochi xxx and how does it compare to My Current drop shot rod?

 

[Stephen B]

While I like Megabass rods, especially there finesse spinning rods, I think there are better rods at the price point than the XXX series.

 

I have never fished a M1, so I can't comment on those rods regarding sensitivity, build quality, and performance. However, they seem to be great rods. One rod I wouldn't overlook are the Kistler KLX and Helium rods. With there current sale you can get most of the Helium 3s for around $230. This is a great rod especially at the price.

[kroberts9]

I was going to get the Ehler AGS but I don't like a flat out medium/fast for a drop shot. Now if it was the same action as the Feider neko rig rod I would have already bought it. 

 

So what Rod would you recommend in the megabass line or similar price point of 250

[Stephen B]

The Kistler KLX and Heliums are very impressive. Kistler is also running a sale on them. If you wanted a Megabass rod, I would wait for a Orochii XX but those could be awhile before coming out. I can't comment on performance as I haven't fished one. However, I know the Kistler rods don't disappoint.

 

I have also hear great things from ALX rods. They seem to be great rods. The owner seems to be very knowledgeable and builds great rods. I think he can even build a custom to your exact specs.

[kroberts9]

Yeah the Xx is still preorder. The new xxx is the same blank as it's American counter part. Which is gorgeous. 

 

The Phenix M1 blank and reel seat are amazing for the price and not to mention lifetime warranty. I just feel like the guides are not rigid enough and you lose some sensitivity. See what happens after you use a Daiwa AGS rod. 

 

Thanks for the Kistler option and I thought the sale on their page was over.

I have some homework now and will check out some more rods

[Stephen B]

No problem. Don't forget that you also do a custom Kistler on there website. There are a bunch of great rods especially at the 200-300 range from a bunch of manufacturers. I am sure others can provide more input regarding models selections for ALX rods and Kistler since many members use a lot of there rods. There are a lot of great rod manufacturers to select from. Good luck on your search!

[kroberts9]

Well after more and more research I found a local person to buy my Phenix M1. Then I  spent a few hours studying and the JDM XXX orochi has the same blank as the upcoming US XX model. Different reel seat, but the spinning seat looks great. The guides I couldn't get a great gauge on I wish they were carbon AGS guides but they look like SiC fuji.

 

So I will keep everyone posted I had to buy the F3-610KS jadepython and plan on pairing it with my latest 2500ci4+ 

[SenkoGuru]

The Megabass Orochi are some of the best Rod's I've ever fished with. I think you will be very happy with your choice.

[kroberts9]

I loved my Phenix M1 it was my favorite finesse rod I have ever held until my 7'6 Feider AGS diawa arrived.  So I am looking forward to the megabass and I hope it is even more sensitive then the Phenix a I pray it pairs with the ci4 with our need of counter weight for balance. 

 

Tackletrap.com is seriously killing me(in a good way) they have so many JDM and other custom gear it's ridiculous.

[evilcatfish]

While not a spinning rod, I do have the XXX Rattle Viper and absolutely love it. I use it mainly for moving bait applications but it definitely had pretty good sensitivity the times I used it for lighter bottom contact baits. Surely lacking the sensitivity of the more appropriate models, but it worked in a pinch.

 

I've only owned one M1 (MX69ML) and while it was a nice rod, I ended up selling as my preferences were going in a different direction

 

Hopefully my ramblings were of some help! Oh and you are right, The Tackle Trap is great

[kroberts9]

I had the 7'2 light M1 and the thing was great. Plus it held up to a 20lb drum in a tournament on Champlain last year. That was 20min lost lol

 

But yes it is a big help. If I end up on love with it I may buy a few more seriously the price is pretty awesome at 250