Expride vs. Expride A - telling the difference?

[Skippy]

Hi all,

 

I went to a retailer to look at a couple of Shimano Expride rods and feel them in my hands.  Very impressed.

Unfortunately, they didn't have the exact model that I was looking for (EX172MHGA), but did have enough other models for me to get a feel for some rods that would be very close.

 

A few things that I found that were odd.  The model numbers were not exactly as listed on Shimano's website.

 

For example, I found a 7'6 MH rod and on the rod it was shown as:

176MH rather than what Shimano's website and other tackle websites show as EX176MHA.  The other specifications appeared to line up:

3/8-1oz line 10-20lb  CODE No. 38106 (if that matters)

 

I found a video online where someone compared the previous JDM and new Expride A's and two obvious differences that were noted were:

• shiny vs. matte finish on the reel seat
• larger vs. smaller cork just above the reel seat

 

Additionally, I found a website listing all of the Expride models and the previous JDM 176MH was noted as 2 pieces (I believe this was just the handle) and for 3/8 to 1 1/16oz baits...

 

Based on that I believe I was holding an Expride A, but why would Shimano not use at least the 176MHA to identify the Expride A?

 

Another thing that I found slightly unusual - none of these rods listed the actions on the actual rod.  Not a big issue, but not something that I am used to.

 

Thanks.

[DomQ]

A lot of the jdm ones have removable handles right at the nut that screws down on to hold the reel. My jdm feels exactly the same as the USD ones, from what I understand the USD models are just different lengths and actions, no difference in blanks.